by Carsten Hansen, 256pp. (Gambit 2000)
The Symmetrical systems of the English Opening constitute a large and important area of modern opening theory. The strategic variety to be found within this book is staggering: from the sedate Symmetrical Variation to the wild gambit lines of the Anti-Benoni, and almost everything in between! The book provides detailed coverage of the theory of all lines stemming from 1 c4 c5. It includes many variations that often arise from different openings entirely, such as the Semi-Tarrasch, or when White avoids a Benko or Benoni. A particular highlight is the discussion of the Hedgehog.
Carsten Hansen is a FIDE Master from Denmark; he also writes the very popular ChessCafe.com column Checkpoint, which reviews new opening books each month. He has a wealth of experience at international level and a reputation as an original thinker and a thorough researcher. His first book for Gambit - The Gambit Guide to the English Opening: 1...e5 has received high praise in the chess press.
