James Canty author page

James Canty biography

James Canty III is a professional chess player and the author of Become a Chess Champion: Learn the Basics from a Pro, a children’s non-fiction guide to chess. The book was illustrated by Brian Lambert and published by Neon Squid, with a 128-page edition for readers aged 8 to 10.

Become a Chess Champion is structured as a course that introduces chess knowledge gradually for young readers. The book uses mini games and chess puzzles to teach chess concepts, including opening play and checkmate tactics, and it also includes material on chess history and notable chess events.

Canty is also a chess coach, commentator and content creator for Chess.com. He became a national master at 17 after winning the first Harold Steen Memorial Cup, and the hardcover edition of Become a Chess Champion was published on 3 September 2024.