Emanuel Lasker was probably the greatest chess player of modern times. Certainly no man has ever held the world championship longer -- 28 years -- or kept his powers so long. In his sixties, Lasker began what amounted to a fresh career in chess by playing his first serious game in ten years, and defeating the man who was the following year to become himself world champions : Max Euwe. The secret behind his extraordinary abilities may perhaps be found in Lasker's wide knowledge of every phase of the game, and his ability to be independant of schools or fashions. This knowledge is reflected in the "Manual of Chess", making it one of the great studies of the game, acclaimed by the chess world almost from the day it appeared. The book is one of the most thorough studies ever written, and though its main appeal is to the intermediate to skilled player, it begins its explanations at a level which can be understood by the beginner. Lasker analyzes basic methods of gaining advantages, exchange value of pieces, combinations, position play, the aestehetics of chess, and almost every other important aspect of the game. He examines dozens of differents openings, including the Petroff Defense, the Hungarian Defense, King's Bishop, Ponziani, Guoco Piano, and Four Knighs' Game. He constantly illustrates his discussions with games played by the great modern masters. Lasker is always delightful reading, revealing a mind as quick to entertain and philosophize as it is to explain.