The books toward the top of the list tend to be introductory and targeted primarily to the beginner-novice. This because the follow-on or later book(s) may assume a familiarity or knowledge of principles or ideas introduced in the previous book(s), which in that sense could be considered as containing prerequisite information. In a few instances I have recommended that books be read in a certain order. The list is divided roughly into the following groups: general chess coverage, tactics, attacking/checkmating technique, the opening, the middlegame - including positional-strategic concepts and techniques, the endgame, and instructive game collections. So there should be something of interest here for every amateur chess player - especially those who haven't yet added "Master" to their chess title! While many of the books in the list are targeted primarily to the beginner-intermediate audience, there are also selections for more advanced players, up to and including expert level. These are some of the better books (IMO), elucidating the essential elements which every chess player whose goal is to play better chess should aspire to learn, or become acquainted with.
The emphasis here is on fundamentals and instructional value - for the improving amateur chess player. Whether you are new to chess, or an experienced chess amateur looking for some books to help you improve, this list is for you.