From: Mike Brewer <101620.3102 <at> COMPUSERVE <dot> COM>
Date: 20 mar 1997
Subject: The Art of Shogi - reply from Tony Hosking

Since Tony cannot access the internet I'm sending this note on his behalf.

" I am not yet connected to the internet (hopefully this will change after
Easter): in the meantime I am very grateful to Mike Brewer and Steve Lamb
for keeping me posted. I am glad The Art of Shogi has stimulated some
discussion. I naturally think it is a good book, although I also have one
or two 'minor quibbles' concerning its content! I hope to include any
improvements made known to me - if there is a future edition next century!
But now I would just like to make a few comments on what has been said so
far (in chronological order):-

1. I think Adam Atkinson is right that I should have explicitly mentioned
not promoting a rook, bishop or pawn can advantageously avoid an illegal
pawn drop mate. He has clearly solved more tsume problems than I!

2. I also agree with him and Sam Sloan that I would not wish to get
involved in long theoretical discussion about this ( I should do tsume
shogi instead!)

3. If Roger Hare's 'bashed' copy would survive a return trip in the post I
will gladly replace it. (All copies sent out are now double wrapped.)

4. George Jost's copy is on its way (it should take about 1 week). As
George will see when he gets his copy, a theme of the book is to enjoy
playing both shogi and chess - they can complement each other. A shogi
challenge for chess grandmasters sounds interesting. Perhaps Jonathan
Tisdall will introduce some of his GM friends to shogi? ( I have already
been in contact with one or two English GMs.)

5. I know Eric (Cheymol) and I feel sure he will like the book. The Art of
Shogi is for all shogi players from complete beginner upwards. As the book
includes professional games and analysis, I do not set any dan limit on who
can learn something from the book. (I have taken the liberty of sending
first time 7 Crown holder Habu and a few other top professionals their
copies!)

I look forward to round 2! "

Mike Brewer for Tony Hosking