The Game of Go: The National Game of Japan

"The Game of Go: The National Game of Japan" by Arthur Smith is an educational book introducing the ancient game of Go to a Western audience, detailing not only the basic rules and how to play, but also the game's deep cultural context and importance within Japan. The book serves as a resource for those already somewhat familiar with the game, and seeks to address the lack of English-language resources at the time, relying on the expertise of Japanese Go players. Readers find that the text emphasizes the game's difficulty and the dedication required to truly understand its complexity, highlighting its blend of skill, strategy, and historical importance.