The opening holds a huge interest for most players, some of whom wish to simply get out of the first phase of the game alive, while others want a fast-food formula to quick and easy wins. How To Open A Chess Game gives a lot of food for thought (rather than the endless variations that most books offer), and allows you to digest advice from some of the greatest players in history.

This unique book has always been a favorite of mine, though I had not looked at it for many years. Recently, I glanced through its pages and once again found myself caught by all the flavors and stories and strategy and....well, you get the idea. Though Jack Peters recently told me that he wasn't impressed by this book, I feel that there is an abundance of material for players of all strengths. Strangely enough, it's this very fact that bothers Peters, who would have preferred analysis more suitable to his own strength. So, what bothers one IM impresses another; and the wheels of taste keep turning.

Larry Evans gives material for beginners. Gligoric continues to pour out basic information, though he begins to up the level as his section progresses. Next comes Hort's material, and he hits us with a more scientific approach than most are used to. Great rules, penetrating advice, and a wonderful guide to 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bg5. An excellent chapter! Portisch's "Developing an Opening Repertoire" gives a good primer on the King's Indian Attack (and bits and pieces on other lines) but I have to admit that my favorite section is Petrosian's "Questions of Opening Theory." The late World Champion gives us lots of analysis and advice, but his sections on the Torre Attack and King's Indian, Petrosian System are particularly impressive.

This leaves us with chapters by Larsen and Keres. Larsen's work (titled "A Personal Approach to the Openings") explains why he played so many rejected, old, or even refuted lines. As always, his writing mixes information with a great deal of fun (my two favorite chess writers are Larsen and Tal). Keres' chapter ("The Secret Workshop of a Grandmaster") takes a long look at a rare line of the Ruy Lopez and also discusses how to prepare for specific opponents. However, though his work is, as always, good, I consider some of the earlier chapters to be more instructive.

I recommend reading this book before you develop an opening repertoire. It will give you many ideas, lots of instruction and some great analysis. If you've already settled on a repertoire, this may tempt you to try something new or, at the very least, help you build a deeper understanding of the lines you already play.