The English Attack against the Taimanov Sicilian: A Guide for White

The English Attack against the Taimanov Sicilian: A Guide for White is a chess opening book for players who want an active, practical repertoire against one of the most common Sicilian structures. It focuses on the English Attack and shows how White can use it to seize the initiative, especially in positions where White castles long.

What this book covers

The Taimanov Sicilian is a familiar branch of the Sicilian Defence, seen both in club play and at the top level. For a long time, the English Attack against this structure was often treated as solid but not especially dangerous. Zaven Andriasyan argues otherwise, showing how fresh ideas and careful analysis can give White lively play and real chances to take over the game.

This is not just a collection of variations. The book explains typical pawn structures, plans for both sides, and the key strategic and tactical motifs that make the opening work in practice. That makes it useful not only for memorising moves, but also for understanding why the positions arise and how they should be handled.

Inside the book

Andriasyan organises the material clearly and guides the reader through less explored areas of theory. Alongside the main lines, he also covers interesting novelties, fresh ideas and important side variations. A major feature of the book is the set of 50 exercises, which help reinforce the ideas and test your understanding of the critical positions.

It is a strong choice for club players who want an active repertoire against the Taimanov, as well as for stronger players looking for up-to-date analysis and concrete theoretical ideas.

About the author

Zaven Andriasyan is an Armenian grandmaster, European Under-18 champion and the 2006 World Under-20 champion. He is among the strongest chess players in Armenia and is also the author of Winning with the Najdorf Sicilian.

Key details

• Product type: chess opening book
• Opening: English Attack against the Taimanov Sicilian
• Side: White
• Author: Zaven Andriasyan
• Content: opening theory, typical pawn structures, strategic plans and tactical motifs
• Exercises: 50 exercises
• Usage: opening preparation and building a White repertoire against the Sicilian Defence