The Moves That Matter

A Chess Grandmaster on the Game of Life

By: Jonathan Rowson

Narrated by: Jonathan Rowson

Bloomsbury presents The Moves that Matter written and read by Jonathan Rowson.

'A powerfully unconventional and mind-expanding book ... A generous, nuanced and witty meditation on confronting the challenges life throws at us all' Oliver Burkeman, author of The Antidote

Refined and perfected throughout human history, chess has long been a touchstone for shrewd tacticians and master strategists. But enfolded within this ancient game can be found a singularly resonant metaphor for the challenges, thrills and setbacks that fill our lives with meaning and complexity.

Jonathan Rowson’s competitive success as a Grandmaster and his work as a philosopher of public policy have given him a unique perspective on why the great game is more important than ever for understanding the conflicts and uncertainties of the modern world. In sixty-four witty and addictive vignettes, Rowson takes us on a tour of life where everything is at play – an exhilarating journey from the aesthetics of cyborgs to the psychology of gang violence, the joys of parenting to the ultimate endgame of death. Chess emerges as a rich and endlessly evocative way of thinking about the desires that shape the world around us.

The Moves That Matter celebrates the redeeming power of intense concentration, while offering a humane and compassionate account of our interdependence and need for community. Jonathan Rowson reveals, one move at a time, what it means to love, think or care deeply in the intricate game of life.©2019 Jonathan Rowson (P)2019 Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Such a well thought-out book!!!

This book is honestly more about philosophy than chess. Or rather, it is life as seen through the prism of chess. And it is very enjoyable. 64 essays spanning a wide range of subjects, I honestly wish I’d found this book early.

Brilliant chess player is also generally smart

Jonathan tells interesting and important stories that relate to life in general.

A few chapters missed for me personally, but this is a strong life-philosophy book that is fun to consume.

Sort of a chess book

First, the author has done a great job of reading for the audio book version.
Second, there's some interesting non-chess stuff here and there.
Third, there are some cabal zombie talking points here and there.
And fourth, the chess related content is interesting.