Playing the Najdorf by David Vigorito

“Vigorito’s orientation towards helping the reader understand the opening pervades the book. He

clearly explains the plans for both sides, as well as the tactics and positional points. He frequently

explains which moves don’t work as well as those that do, which is often the best way to understand

what is going on and to get to grip with the various subtleties that make this opening so rich. He does

not seek to make the material appear simpler than it really is, rather he guides the reader every step of the way.

Playing the Najdorf by David Vigorito

I highly recommend this book. It provides great coverage and excellent explanations. Even more

importantly, at least to me, it is enjoyable to read and a pleasure to dip into. The size of the book

might put some potential readers off but, if you want to understand this much-played opening, I

don’t think there is a better guide.”

IM John Pigott

“While the Najdorf may have a great pedigree, it also has a reputation as being complicated and

requiring tremendous theoretical knowledge. While there is no free lunch in chess, American

International Master David Vigorito, in ‘Playing the Najdorf’ makes the case that learning this

opening is not as daunting as it might seem…

IM John Donaldson

Another way the author makes this book more accessible is by including a large amount of

explanatory prose. This is a big book, well over 500 pages, which enables Vigorito to explain things

without leaving out theoretically significant material. Despite the serious subject matter this book is

very readable.”