#100. Joel Benjamin Talks About His Latest Bobby Fischer Book, Bishops, And Much More!

This week's episode of the New In Chess Podcast features an interview with American grandmaster Joel Benjamin.
Joel is a three-time US Champion, who can look back on a long and successful career. At the age of 13 he made headlines for the first time as he became an International Master, breaking Bobby Fischer’s record, who had been the youngest US master up till that moment.
Joel is also a successful and prolific chess writer. Today's interview discusses his latest book, "Bobby Fischer’s Best Games, The Lasting Legacy of the American World Champion." On the New In Chess website the book is described as ‘A modern reappraisal of Bobby Fischer’s greatest games. With engine-aided insight and personal perspective, this book highlights the clarity, technique, and huge impact of Fischer’s chess.’
Interviewed by Dirk Jan ten Geuzendam, you will get a taste of the way Joel Benjamin approached his subject by listening to this podcast, full of great stories and fond memories. Don’t miss it!
0:00 – Intro
2:20 – How Joel started writing his Bobby Fischer book
5:58 – Getting into chess because of Fischer
9:28 – What was Joel most surprised to learn about Fischer while writing the book?
11:40 – Why the US never produced “the next Bobby Fischer”
14:29 – How was Joel influenced by Fischer as a player?
17:30 – What Joel thinks would have happened in a Fischer – Karpov match
20:55 – Fischer’s endgame skills
22:35 – Fischer’s love of bishops
24:53 – AD BREAK
25:25 – Joel’s background as a historian
27:43 – Joel’s “must read” Fischer books
30:39 – Fischer’s need for clarity
32:25 – Growing up without chess technology
35:30 – Kids don’t read books
39:25 – Fischer’s personality and personal life outside of chess
41:05 – Why Americans are reluctant to write about Fischer’s flaws
43:50 – AD BREAK
46:35 – Joel’s take on the eternal GOAT debate
50:50 – Joel current playing career
52:44 – Did Joel enjoy writing the book?
55:38 – What is Fischer’s current standing in American chess?
58:02 – Outro