It is quite correct to describe what I said about his chess rating as silly. I know Heath was not a grandmaster though, in my defense, it was he himself who told me that he planned to be ranked at a higher level before we started shooting. Perhaps I had misunderstood. My over-ranking him came from ignorance but it was a convenient short hand to the press under the stress of his then recent death to reveal his passion for and genuine ability at chess.

There is no doubt he was a talented player and in working on the script of Walter Tevis’ truly wonderful novel – which is as much about loneliness, hope, loving care, addiction and loyalty as it is about the game of chess – Heath demonstrated a profound and enlightening understanding of the game at the highest levels.

He was a very decent, caring and good person. I am not alone in missing him then and now.

Allan Scott

Thank you for your time and consideration, and happy New Year,

Katy

You mentioned 4 of the 5 Discover Magazine “fools” stories. Was the final one perchance a health-related story about Uncle Otto (or Uncle Ernie?) that sat in the corner motionless for years? The author was able to diagnose hypothermia, got the families permission to medically “warm him up”, and Uncle Otto resumed a normal life — with a 10 year gap in his memory.

Like the mole story, it sounded too strange to be true.

(age 68)

I wonder, of the numerous books he wrote, do you have a suggestion for one to start reading?

Also, I totally love wikipedia! Check out the article on 153.

cheers
ryan