Conquering Backgammon - 2nd Edition

This is a great book because:1. As well as covering the basics it covers features of advanced play. This means that this will be the only backgammon book that you will need, until you aspire to expert level when you will want to read more specialised texts on niche aspects of backgammon.2. I judge a backgammon book on the amount of notes that I have made. There are pages and pages of really important stuff that you need to learn in this book.3. The book is beautifully presented with easy to understand colour diagrams.4. I love the fact that there are a lot of practise exercises. For example the book teaches you how to count shots, count pips , choose a game plan etc but more importantly gives you practise exercises so that you can reinforce your learning.5. This book was written after the latest backgammon computer software so that you can be confident that it is teaching you the correct moves.

First of all, the quality of the book is notable: the graphics, diagrams, paper, and overall sturdiness of the hardcover edition are first rate. It's a book you can look forward to referencing years into the future.The positives: in terms of both content and visual presentation of content, it's two volumes in one book.The first "volume" covers concisely in ~100 pages the basics. Other reviewers have listed content; in brief you'll learn basic probability as applied to backgammon, opening moves, and other topics covered in a very informative manner. There are other equally good primers; none better.It's volume two that sets this work apart from the books I learned the game from (Magriel, Robertie, Jacoby et al.). This volume is a far more advanced analysis of key aspects of the game tied to computer analysis leading to quantitative assessments of moves and positions. The author introduces the concept of "equity" to assess the quality of individual moves and resultant positions. Extensive use of computer analysis results in a quantified analysis of resultant positions. This analysis is especially attractive to those comfortable with descriptive statistics; a merely good move is differentiated from a "game breaker" move via objective data. It is in this sense that this book differentiates itself from other helpful, more qualitative books. Other books, including those by the authors listed above, are very helpful, and will remain in my library for reference and guidance.The author refers the reader to books and articles by other authors, pointing the reader to additional resources. This is a feature not often found in any instructional books, regardless of the game or skill addressed.The appendix that addresses "best opening moves after the initial move of your opponent" is exceptionally helpful, and missing from other books I have read.On the down side: (1) There are a large number of errata in the first printing. Most are obvious, and easily corrected.(2) The initial response to all the tables, descriptive statistics, and mathematics might dissuade readers. The inside of the back cover, for example, includes tables of statistics most readers have never heard of. Many enthusiasts of the game may never have interest in some of the tables. Think of this book as a banquet; take from it what suits your taste, and leave the rest for a possible later encounter. There's enough here for a lifetime of pleasure attempting to master this game.My bias is toward objective analysis. This is my "go to" source re backgammon.

I recently got back into the game after 30+ years away from it. In my youth I played for fun with only a basic understanding of the game and no knowledge of strategy or the doubling cube. This was the first book I purchased to help me in my quest. About three years and a dozen books later, this resource has proven to be among the best, for me at least. It clearly explains and beautifully illustrates this magnificent game from the most basic concepts for beginners to the most complex topics for seasoned experts. It will accompany you on your journey to improve your understanding and skill. It will reveal new insights upon re-reading as your comprehension and experience grows. There are a few renowned backgammon books out there, and I find this to be among the best if not THE all around best - especially due to the clear explanations, applicability to a broad range of experience, logical progression / organization of concepts, and full use of modern computer analytics.

I have just started studying backgammon and have purchased a dozen books in the last few months. This one stands out as my favorite. While no one book can cover everything - this one comes close. It arms you with all concepts needed to advance to into an excellent player. Do not discount the first part of the book as being just a refresher or how to move the pieces - it has some great gems as well. This book has the benefit of having the most advanced bot (XG) so the moves are all correct by modern standards. The writing is clear and concise and reads like a text book with many illustrations and examples.While it may appear a little pricey compared to some of the older text, it is money well spent and I will read it many times over. I also love Backgammon Boot camp by Trice but I feel it becomes way too advanced very quickly so would plan on reading it after Conquering Backgammon.

It's a fabulous hardcover. The inside cover is a chart covering the opening rolls recommendations. The instructional information is excellent and my highlighter was almost dry by the time I finished the book. One star off for being a little "mathy" which isn't my thing, but may be yours. This is generally on all of the recommended backgammon books to read and I don't disagree.