Thinking Sideways

How to Think Like a Chess Player and Win at Life

By: Jennifer Shahade

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Hardcover | 12 February 2026 | Edition Number 1

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Hardcover

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24.0 x 15.6

Hardcover

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Chess is the art of the possible - after all, there are more potential chess games than atoms in the universe.

Great players are experts at exploring options, allowing them to seize an opportunity, idea or move that no one else saw. Two-time US chess champion Jennifer Shahade calls this 'thinking sideways'. And in today's hyper-competitive world, thinking sideways can help you win at life

In Thinking Sideways, Shahade shows you don't have to be a chess player to think more like a chess player. From building mind palaces to crafting decision trees, she reveals the most useful strategies from the ancient game that we can use in our daily lives. Drawing on examples from business, sports and psychology, as well as her own experiences touring the world as a chess and poker champion, Thinking Sideways offers a practical toolkit for smarter thinking and transforms our understanding of what success looks like, and how to achieve it for ourselves.

This book is not about playing chess - it's about how thinking sideways can propel you to success and happiness.

Industry Reviews

Jennifer Shahade is a brilliant, insightful thinker who never fails to entertain and engage. I'm always amazed by the novel approach she's able to bring to any intellectual challenge and discussion. She's even made me want to learn to play chess - something I swore I'd never do. Jennifer is a true role model to any woman who has ever thought about taking on the worlds that have traditionally been branded male.

A masterclass in how to use strategic thinking for critical decision-making and to unlock creative potential. Deeply researched and wonderfully written, full of fascinating insights.

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Thinking Sideways

How to Think Like a Chess Player and Win at Life

At a Glance

Hardcover

Industry Reviews

Shipping

How to return your order

Defective items

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