tag: John Healy - Page 1

The Coffeehouse Genius, part 1

11/5/2013 – The enigmatic John Healy was featured recently on our website as having one of the most interesting stories, rehabilitating from alcoholism and a life of thuggery and brutality to finding redemption and passion in the game of chess. But what kind of player was he exactly? Did his style live up to his reputation? We let you decide that by yourself in this series of brutal attacks.

Barbaric Genius – a film about John Healy

10/23/2013 – The son of Irish immigrants, John Healy lived rough on the violent streets of London for fifteen years, drinking heavily and turning to crime to survive. In prison he was taught chess by his cellmate. This became his new addiction as alcohol was left behind. He wrote a best selling book and became the darling of the British media. Then he disappeared. Now he has reemerged, and is the subject of a stimulating new documentary by Paul Duane.

The Grass Arena – now a Penguin Classic

9/26/2008 – As a child John Healy discovered that drink offered a release from his violent and unpredictable father. For fifteen years he dossed, drank and fought in the grass arena – the parks and open spaces of London. And spent time in prison. On one occasion he learnt chess – and became hooked. After a decade out of print Healy's gripping tale is now published as a Penguin Classic.
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