How Magnus Carlsen Became the Youngest Chess Grandmaster ...

How Magnus Carlsen Became the Youngest Chess Grandmaster in the World.

At the age of 13 years, 4 months and 26 days, Magnus Carlsen became the youngest chess grandmaster in the world. The international press raved about the Norwegian prodigy. 'The Washington Post' even called him ‘the Mozart of chess’.

Ten years on Magnus Carlsen is the number one in the world rankings and a household name far beyond chess circles. 'Time Magazine' listed him as one of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2013.

The fairy-tale-like story of Magnus Carlsen’s rise is told by Simen Agdestein, who trained Magnus in the years leading up to his grandmaster title, repeatedly pinching himself in amazement at his pupil’s lightning progress.

Agdestein explains the secrets of Magnus’ play in clear and instructive comments and tells about the Carlsen family life. The story of Magnus’ fabulous journey will fascinate parents and help gifted children to realize their full potential.

Simen Agdestein is a most remarkable double talent. Not only did he win the Norwegian national chess championship six times, but he also used to be a highly gifted football player. He played for Lyn FC in Oslo and represented the Norwegian national soccer team on eight occasions.

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Jeremy Silman, author of 'How to Reassess Your Chess':
"A wonderful instructive treatise on how to improve your game, step by step, by following Magnus' journey to the highest title."

Matthew Sadler, former British Champion:
"Agdestein writes with great honesty, affection and modesty about his experience (..) It provides so many insights into Magnus'chess personality."

Heinz Brunthaler, Rochade Europa Magazine:

Herman Grooten, author of ‘Chess Strategy for Club Players’:
"A splendid book, accessible for a big audience."

John  Watson, The Week In Chess:
"The most interesting and original book if you're looking for the story of Carlsen's early days, his family, training, travels, and years as a Junior(..) The book is a well-written and entertaining, and the only one that covers this biographical material."

Jan Timman, former World Chess Championship finalist:
"Compelling tale, exciting chess."

Taylor Kingston, ChessCafe:
"No doubt about it, the kid is good (..) Agdestein does a good job indicating how various moves and ideas show Carlsen’s growth as a player."