The Last Gambit

The magnificence of this beautiful creation by Swamiji – “The Last Gambit” is beyond words.If there is one book that you were to read in your life then this would be it. Engulfed in the tale of fourteen year old Vasu are profound truths of life. Vasu is spotted by a chess prodigy, who trains him to be a world champion. This is fiction but through Vasu’s life, you can peep into your own, growing as an individual. A better one at that.In this book, Swamiji, has revealed how you can craft yourself into being successful. What it takes, the struggles and the challenges behind it. The sacrifices of the near and dear ones, above all the turmoil one has to go through to shine with brilliance.Profound yet subtle messages have been woven throughout the book. Swamiji has covered everything here. Morals, Pursuit of Passion, Life, Relationships, Motivation and much more.I personally feel that it should be made compulsory or part of the school curriculum. Every ought to read it.For all the devotees of Swamiji (the author), this will give you a glimpse into the sacrifices a master makes for his students. You can well imagine the extent of sacrifices made by Swamiji for all those who seek shelter under his umbrella of love and compassion. I personally feel there is a message for all those who look up to Swamiji as their Guru. Read the end with a strong heart.Do yourself a favor, Read IT. May be gift it to someone who is pursuing a passion.We will run out of words to express the magnificence of Swamiji's work but Swamiji never stops amazing us.Thank You Swamiji, for gracing our lives and writing such beautiful books which people would enjoy for many many years.

Amazing read. It has everything to captivate you till the end. Thrill, romance, laughter, excitement and above all the priceless words of practical wisdom which would make the narrator qualify for world championship and compete against the mighty Andrei Kulikov – a mysterious automaton who is naturally wired to just play for chess to win. Tears and smiles would come naturally while you move through the pages (in no time!)The book appears out to be a real-life story and Vasu seems like a living person writing his memoir. His trials and tribulation, cries and frustration, constant self-doubt, success and failures are seemed very real to which we can relate. He’s not your super-human individual found often in science fiction who’s bound to win in any circumstances. Rather, he loses and bruises during crucial moments. Failure goes hand in hand but what stands out is that he keeps pursuing and that’s one of the key messages IMO of the book. Set one goal and Keep pursuing it till the goal and you become one.Vasu eventually loses and wins at the same time – how? Find out yourself. The climax will leave you with tears and joy and – you’d feel proud of and sad for Vasu simultaneously.Make sure your tummy is full before you start reading the book as you'd find it hard to put down in the middle.

Another gem by Om Swami, offering many invaluable life lessons in most interesting and fun ways, making you all nostalgic and warm inside. One of a few reads where I literally had multiple LOL movements. :)Based on a teenage boy's life changing story, his zeal for Chess and his relationship with his master, the reader would get to learn most, if not all aspects of spirituality and self-improvement in a nutshell. It offers insights on care, appreciation, intimidation, dedication, expression, forgiveness, acceptance, respect, mistakes, responsibilities, thoughts and conduct, nature’s law, reflection, and above all, Love and Self-Sacrifice!!Must read for all.

The Last Gambit is an amazing and a very nicely written book. While the book primary describes a relationship between a chess master and his teenage student, the moral lessons and teachings behind the story make for a deeper meaning. The student's journey invokes emotions and teaches us readers about the fundamental lessons in life. The examples and plot make for a remarkable read and the subtle lessons Om Swami incorporates in through the student's actions help us reflect upon ourselves. The author has really created an incredible story line which teaches us as well as entertains us. I would say that this book is suited for all ages and is definitely recommendable.

Amazing Book! Seems like this book is meant for 14 year olds and above. I am nine years old, so my parents read this book aloud, skipping a few sections that were not relevant to me.Chess is an ancient Indian game but there is only one Indian World Chess Champion so far. Om Swami's first work of fiction is outstanding. I hope he will write many more fictional stories. I never knew the names of some spectacular chess openings and defenses until I read this book. It is a very motivational book which encouraged me to take playing chess seriously.

I know I'm writing the same review for all of Om Swami's books. It's just that I do not have words to describe, not just the content but the impact they have had on my life. His memoir is now my Bible. I worship it. I read His books and his blog posts over and over and each time I discover something new.. about myself. My family and I have gone through a complete transformation since the day we read His books (and the book 'Om Swami as we know Him' by Ismita Tandon and Swami Vidyananda Om). His words have a Divine power that I cannot explain. We call out to Him and he appears in front of us. I feel I have found myself, my true path and I have found God.

This book is not only about chess but wisdom which can help you to achieve the short-term or long-term goal.I loved reading each chapter I loved it so much that I read twice and glued throughout. I laughed occasionally while reading many events narrated in the book.

Made my giggle, made me think, made me cry. Let's see if you have this book or to put it better the author in your life. I hope you have good wisdom.

The Last GambitPre-booked this fantastic journey months back and read it at the same time, but somehow unable to write down a review, but now at last doing it with a calm mindset.
I have always been interested in fiction, as it helps reader to disconnect from current scenario and create an imaginary world of his own, always appreciated the creative storyline but, it is first time I was reading a novel(in true sense) by a Sanyasi (monk) , so when I first heard of it, I was intrigued,Few questions floated in my head:
What Swami ji is going to write in this book?How he is going to touch the sensitive subject of romance and love? 
Is it another Robin Sharma kind of inspirational book ? (to be honest I avoid reading fictional tales mixed with preaching stuff)There were so many question, but when it finally arrived, I was so engrossed that finished it in one read i.e around 8 hours, it's like I just can’t put it down, have to get to the whole story.It is so fantastically written that you will find it difficult to realise that it is by same person who is author of National Bestsellers Non-Fictions like “ A Million Thoughts: Learn All About Meditation from The Himalayan Mystic ”, “ Kundalini: An untold story ”, or “ When All Is Not Well: Depression, Sadness and Healing - A Yogic Perspective ”you will find yourself as boy who is passionate about chess and meets a great chess player and then realises their most cherished dream together.It will also give you glimpse to the relation between Mentor and Protege, Master and Disciple in true sense, how much Master Sacrifices for the well being of his Disciple and the love and bond that exists between them…it is beyond comprehension of rationalities of mind.I would suggest read it enjoy it or better savour it to last bit, there is so much in this… just read it A Million Thoughts: Learn All About Meditation from The Himalayan MysticKundalini: An untold storyWhen All Is Not Well: Depression, Sadness and Healing - A Yogic Perspective

I loved reading this book. It is about chess but more about wisdomA must readThank you swamiji

One of my best reads ever.... What a combination. Truly motivating and grounded. A true master finds his worthy recipient who trains to become a world champion. A typical middle class disciplined parents and their sacrifices to upbring their children who in turn become an epitome of successful careers. Tears rolled down my cheeks while I read mother-son, father-son and master - student relationship and their sacrifices to orient vaasu. M not surprised if it becomes a blockbuster movie if an elite director and esteemed actor takes it up. Its so real to be told. Its a typical success story which makes us feel ambitious and motivates us to work towards our goal persistently. One at a time☺ Great read. Thank you Swamiji for yet another pearl of wisdom. Pranams