The opponent who answers 1 e4 with an emphatic 1...c5 (The Sicilian
Defence) is often looking for a fight. Such players can be highly
theoretically prepared and itching to launch into their own pet
variations after White has opted for the main lines with an early d2-d4.
The Closed Sicilian is an ideal antidote to such aggression. In the
Closed Sicilian an awareness of the strategies and plans is far more
important than the simple memorising of variations. White's play is
logical and the basic ideas are simple to master. However, do not be
fooled into thinking the opening is without venom. The deliberate and
slow burning attack that White often builds up has resulted in numerous
fine attacking victories. The Move by Move series provides an ideal
format for the keen chessplayer to improve their game. While reading you
are continually challenged to answer probing questions - a method that
greatly encourages the learning and practising of vital skills just as
much as the traditional assimilation of chess knowledge. Carefully
selected questions and answers are designed to keep you actively
involved and allow you to monitor your progress as you learn. This is an
excellent way to study chess while providing the best possible chance to
retain what has been learnt.
