The Sicilian Pelikan (Macmillan Chess Library)

Rating:
Summary: A historic piece of magnificent understanding and chess wit.
Review: After having played the Sveshnikov variation since 1980, I finally came across this book a few months ago. It didn't look much at first. The binding is tacky, typographically so-so. It had its fair portion of wear and tear as well. If the sayings about judging a book by its cover etc were all gobbledegook they are true now. It turned out to be an incredible work of knowledge, far exceeding any other book on openings in historical value. The way Evgeny Sveshnikov searches for truth in dazzling variations, never losing sight of the big picture, is most instructive. This book is obviously the fruit of enormous creativity, hard work, and a large dosis of perfectionism. If anybody is thinking about a reprint and thinks I may be of help, contact me by e-mail. I think this is the best opening book in existence and it will stand out in chess history.

Rating:
Summary: Special opening book
Review: This is an awesome openings work; it is as if you are truly hearing about this opening form the source. The introduction chapter beautifully traces the history of the ...e5 Sicilian, and the remainder of the book is simply staggering in its energy and chess beauty. It reminds me of the works by Polugayevsky. I agree with the other reviewer that this is a truly great book.