Description
This book is essentially a continuation of Herman Grooten’s previous book on Sicilian. In the previous volume Grooten analysed Najdorf and Scheveningen. Then in this volume he analyses in depth three extremely popular systems: Taimanov, Kan and Richter-Rauzer. Sequences played by players of all levels from beginners to top grandmasters!
Taimanov and Kan are used by all levels of players from all levels and from top players to top players.
The characteristic of Taimanov and Kan is that Black advances his pawns to E6 and A6 very quickly in the opening. Also an important element in the position is that they are slow to advance the pawn to D6. In many cases they leave it on D7. Black’s purpose is to have the bishop on Z8 flexible. So black has the option to place him on C5 or B4.
As we look at the Taimanov, Kan also comes across a very interesting formation called the ‘hedgehog’. The special feature of this formation is the most important feature of Black’s pawns on A6 B6 B6 D6 E6. Many grandmasters have described this formation as one of the best for black in Sicilian! A formation that gives black a great chance of winning mainly because of the very complicated play in the middle of the game.
Richter-Rauzer
A formation that is also discussed in detail in the book is that of Richter-Rauzer (6.Ai5). Although it is only one of many that one will encounter in Sicilian it deserves special attention and study.
As in the previous books in the series the reader will find a wide range of analysed games. The basic idea is to understand the secrets of the opening and the positions which arise in the instrument. A fantastic book to complement the Understanding Before Moving series!
Each book on its own and the combination of all make a great addition to your library!
