International Grandmaster Nick de Firmian is an expert on opening theory and a three-time US Champion. He helped to develop chess computer Deeper Blue's opening repertoire in its match victory over Garry Kasparov in 1997.

This is a brand new edition of this perennial chess favourite, with more than 25 per cent new material. This book has been the standard reference work on chess openings for more than half a century, and has been called 'the chess player's bible'. It is the most comprehensive single-volume work on the openings. Covering every standard line of play, it provides the distilled essence of contemporary opening theory. This latest updated edition is an indispensable reference work for club and tournament players.This is the most comprehensive single-volume work on the openings available to date. It is fully revised and updated edition covers every standard line of play. It is illustrated throughout with diagrams and chess grids for ease of use.