Mikhail Golubev has played the Sicilian as Black and White for the whole
of his chess career, specializing in the sharpest and most aggressive
systems. Here he presents the whole undiluted truth - as best he sees
it - about this most popular and cut-throat of openings.
The quality of the games is striking. Even the list of opponents in
junior tournaments features Kramnik and Shirov, while more recent
opponents include Ponomariov and Svidler. Ivanchuk's extraordinary ideas
crop up repeatedly. But we also see Golubev facing more 'normal'
opposition, where as the higher-rated player the top priority was to
create winning opportunities.
There is much to learn from Golubev's honest 'warts and all'
presentation. We see the process of discovery and experimentation, and
develop a feel for the spirit of the Sicilian. There is a wealth of
original analysis (all scrupulously computer-checked), novelties and
strategic guidance. For Dragon, Sozin/Najdorf and Velimirovic players in
particular, this book is an absolute must-read, but Anti-Sicilian and
Taimanov players are among those who must also watch out. All Sicilian
lines are covered, with the exception of those that have never occurred
in the more than 440 Sicilian games from Golubev's professional career.
