David B. Fogel 'Blondie24, Playing on the Edge of AI'

This is the story of Blondie24, a checkers playing computer program. Unlike conventional checkers programs Blondie's programming told it (her?) nothing about checkers, instead Blondie learned to play through practice. By using an evolutionary technique Blondie evolved from a total beginner to an expert. Throughout the book Fogel compares the evolutionary approach used in Blondie with the rule based systems used in other programs and although he certainly presents a slightly one sided case, he does so very compellingly. The technical details of the various approaches are well presented and there is extra material contained in the lengthy appendix. Interestingly and refreshingly Fogel directly addresses questions and criticisms raised by various academic referees. I recommend this book to anyone interested in AI, or indeed checkers.

404 pages, Morgan Kaufmann Publishers