This publication, the first book in the series, is an attempt to collect and convey to chess fans the diverse creative heritage of one of the brightest chess players in history - the eighth world champion Mikhail Tal (11/9/1936-06/28/1992). The collections are based on chronological principle, the first book covers the games played by M. Tal in the period from 1949 to 1961, the subsequent ones - from 1962 to 1976. and from 1977 to 1992. (total 3000 parts and fragments). It is also planned to publish a book, which will include selected journalistic works of M. Tal: essays, articles, reports, interviews, excerpts from books. The difference between this publication and previous ones is not only in the most complete reflection of the tournament and match practice of the eighth world champion. Undoubtedly, readers will also benefit and enjoy his notes on his own games, written in hot pursuit and distinguished by the depth of analysis, expression, fantasy, self-irony and humor inherent in M. Tal. Of particular interest is the selection of examples of M. Tal’s creativity in the “light” genre: training, session, touring, “blitz” and “tempo” games. So that the publication does not seem too dry and academic, the authors enliven it with photographs of the outstanding chess player (many of which are published for the first time), numerous friendly cartoons and drawings will make readers smile - M. Tal was a fertile model for artists and caricaturists. Compiled by V. F. Kirillov