King's Kalashnikov Sicilian: A Dynamic Black Repertoire for Club Players

by Daniel J. King

Even in the Sicilian Defense, one of the most popular and well-developed chess openings, it is possible to surprise your opponent at move four! With the Kalashnikov Variation, Black immediately forces the opponent to make a difficult decision. It all starts with a Black pawn, kicking White's knight off the central d4-square. This push will lead the game into turbulent waters where your rapid development, attacking options, sound pawn structure and superior preparation will leave your opponent bewildered. Grandmaster Daniel King knows what it takes to play the Sicilian with success, and his articulate explanations and practical approach to playing and learning will help you score your own Sicilian victories. This course is a repertoire for Black, focusing on the most important lines. In addition, there is a selection of well-annotated master games demonstrating key strategic concepts in practical settings. Once you hear about the Bad Bishop Bounce, Liberation Station, and The Trojan Horse, you will be eager to introduce them into your own games. The book also explains how to punish the sidelines you are most likely to face in club and online play, often allowing you to reach a superior position straight out of the opening! This complete repertoire includes answers to all possible alternatives for White after the moves 1 e4 c5 2 Nf3 Nc6 3 d4 cxd4 4 Nxd4 e5.

Genres: Chess

200 pages, Hardcover

Published September 1, 2022

About the author

Daniel King is a chess grandmaster. He has been a professional chess-player for over 25 years representing his country on numerous occasions. In addition, he is a games consultant, television presenter, live commentator, freelance journalist, and an award-winning author of 15 books.

Reviews

[Ken Jensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

GM Daniel King has written a superb book on the Kalashnikov variation of the Sicilian Defense. The first part of the book consists of twenty full model games to give us the feel of complete games, which is very useful. Then the second part consists of his repertoire recommendation, which often differs slightly or sometimes even significantly from the model games, which gives the opening a broader perspective. I have played the Kalashnikov for years and love the opening, yet I learned a few new things here, strengthening my understanding of the opening. Highly recommended!