| Starting out: Slav and Semi-Slav (Everyman Chess, 256 pages, paperback, figurine algebraic, $21.95) by Glenn Flear is yet another solid performance by the English Grandmaster. This time around he continues the wise practice of writing on subjects that are quite familiar to him. Many years ago Flear wrote a book on the Slav and he has long been known to play both sides of the Semi-Slav. Here he covers everthing under the ...c6 and ...dxc4 and ...c6 and ...e6 universe from the main line Slav to the Meran, Anti-Meran and Noteboom. The usual Starting out: format is followed - 91 well-annotated games present the material. Flear has useful tips interspersed throughout the book to reinforce his key points. Judging the series as a whole I would say Flear's is not only only useful for newcomers to the opening, but also regular practioners. Check out his analysis of Illescas-Harikrishna, Calvia (ol) 2004 on pages 217-219 where he does everyhthing you could ask from the author of an opening book: (1) he identifies the important lines; (2) he explains in clear prose what both sides are aiming for; (3) he offers improvements with plenty of original analysis . Recommended |