Bobby Fischer's Chess Queen - Shernaz Kennedy (hardcover)

Bobby Fischer's Chess Queen

When a young woman from India moves to America and reaches out to Bobby Fischer, the world's greatest chess champion, it sparks a lifelong bond few knew existed.

Growing up in a privileged family, Shernaz Kennedy discovered the magic of chess at an early age. After Bobby Fischer's legendary victory over Boris Spassky in the match of the century, she sent him a heartfelt letter asking for advice - and he answers.

What began as a simple act of admiration blossomed into an extraordinary, enduring friendship. This exhilarating account of their relationship reveals how she sustained his spirit for decades, educating him and rekindling his love of competition during his darker periods.

Like A Beautiful Mind and Amadeus, Bobby Fischer's Chess Queen transcends the boundaries of its subject. This is not just a story about chess - it is a story about ambition, resilience, and the healing power of connection.

Discover the untold story behind the legend, an unforgettable portrait of two champions and a love that defied distance, fame, and the demands of genius.

Shernaz Kennedy is a chess player, teacher and writer. She is a Women’s International Master, has competed in ten U.S. Women's championships and has represented the United States at the Olympiad. She teaches chess at two dozen schools in Manhattan, New York. She was born in India and immigrated in 1976 to the United States.

Reviews

WIM Alexey Root on sparkchess.com
“Her memoir’s storyline has an engaging arc, from young Shernaz wanting Fischer’s help to mature Shernaz helping him negotiate chess conditions. She convincingly sketched Bandra, India, and New York City. No chess games, though some references to openings (especially to the Sicilian Defense). I enjoyed her memoir, even though my role in it was played by Elena Akhmilovskaya.”