The Modern Defence is a dynamic, ambitious and universal opening, one that can be used against virtually every system White can play. Black’s provocative strategy is based upon allowing White to construct an imposing pawn centre in the anticipation that a well-timed strike will bring about its downfall. Both sides can play for high rewards, albeit at some risk: White can hope to succeed with a direct attack or to squash Black with a space advantage, while Black will aim to destroy White’s centre and mop up the remains. All in all this can lead to intriguing battles in which one slip from either side is often fatal. In this book, Nigel Davies studies the Modern by going back to basics, introducing the key moves and ideas, and taking care to explain the reasoning behind them – something that has often been neglected or taken for granted.
Everyman Chess’s Starting Out series has firmly established itself as the leading guide to studying openings for up-and-coming players. These books are distinguished by their easy-to-read layout, the lucid explanations of the fundamentals, and the abundance of notes, tips and warnings to help the reader absorb vital ideas. Starting Out opening books are ideal for enthusiastic chess players who have little experience of the openings in question and who wish to appreciate the essential principles behind them.
About the Author
Nigel Davies is a Grandmaster, a winner of numerous international tournaments and a former British Rapidplay Champion. He’s a renowned coaching expert and is the author of many successful books. Previous works for Everyman Chess include his Gambiteer series and the highly acclaimed Play 1 e4 e5!.
Reviews
“The ideal book to conserve your nerves and to save time in opening preparation. Along the way the reader will broaden his chess mind and develop a universal opening repertoire. Recommended” —www.freechess.de/www.niggemann.com
“In the days when computerised analysis sees most mainstream openings swamped in 25-30 moves of theory, there is a great deal to be said for getting the opponent thinking from very early on – and Davies says it very well. Highly recommended. “—Steve Giddins British Chess Magazine
“an excellent primer on the Modern and one which can also be used as the basis of a black repertoire. It should be useful to players of a wide range of playing strengths, although it must be said that inexperienced players as Black might find it hard to make best use of one of the Modern’s greatest assets – its flexibility. —Phil Adams
“For anyone playing the Modern as black, this book will be an excellent source of ideas and inspiration from which you can learn everything you need to know about this creative, combative and provocative opening. It is written from Black’s point of view and a specific repertoire is presented for Black, yet even white players should benefit from the excellent guidance provided throughout. I found this book tremendously enjoyable. “
—Carsten Hansen ChessCafe.com