This major work of the famous Russian chess openings theorist Alexei Sokolsky is distinguished by its original approach to the subject. Whereas other standard books deal with openings mainly in the form of lines and variations, Sokolsky's is a distinctive and analytical treatment. The effect of the openings on the game as it proceeds is explained and developed. Opening theories are shown to develop by a natural transition into plans for the middle-game and this is illustrated with copius examples from modern tournament practice. Especially valuable is Sokilsky's concentration on the influence and use of not only the central squares of the board but also those important squares that are contiguous to the center. He reveals how certain key openings are almost completely concerned with the exploitation of those squares. He also provides a seclection of minature games which are chiefly to be enjoyed but which will of course be immensely helpful in developing the player's opening game. The translators and editors both leading chess experts and writers have succeeded in producing a text that is outstanding for its clarity and readibility.