Sokolsky Opening by M. Thomas and A.J. Gillam

Sokolsky Opening

By M. Thomas & A.J. Gillam
Published by The Chess Player, Nottingham (1981)

A specialized opening monograph on one of chess’s most creative unorthodox flank openings, Sokolsky Opening by M. Thomas and A.J. Gillam provides a detailed study of the opening beginning with 1.b4, also known as the Sokolsky Opening, Orangutan, or Polish Opening. Published by The Chess Player (Nottingham) in 1981, this compact work examines the ideas, variations, and practical possibilities of this surprise weapon.

The book explains how White uses the early b-pawn advance to develop pressure along the a1–h8 diagonal, prepare Bb2, and create flexible attacking and positional chances. Rather than competing for the center immediately, the Sokolsky Opening follows hypermodern principles, allowing White to influence central squares from the flank. The authors present opening analysis and practical examples that make this book a valuable historical reference for players interested in unusual opening systems.

Topics Covered

• Sokolsky Opening (1.b4)
• Orangutan / Polish Opening ideas
• Flank opening strategy
• Fianchetto plans with Bb2
• White’s queenside expansion
• Responses against major Black setups
• Tactical opportunities and positional themes
• Annotated opening analysis

Key Features

• Dedicated study of the 1.b4 opening system
• Written by M. Thomas and A.J. Gillam
• Published by The Chess Player, Nottingham (1981)
• Focuses on practical ideas and strategic concepts
• Covers a rare but creative hypermodern opening weapon
• A valuable addition for collectors of classic chess opening literature

Recommended For

Club players, tournament competitors, opening explorers, collectors, and fans of unusual chess systems looking to study the Sokolsky Opening, surprise opponents with 1.b4, and understand the strategic ideas behind flank-based hypermodern play.