Winning Against Flank Openings by IM Eric Tangborn

Winning Against Flank Openings is a practical guide for Black players who want a reliable defense against less common first moves such as 1.c4 (English Opening), 1.Nf3 (King’s Knight Attack), 1.f4 (Bird’s Opening), and 1.b4 (Sokolsky Opening). Written by International Master Eric Tangborn, the book provides a complete defensive repertoire with strategic ideas, positional plans, and practical solutions against flank openings.

Based partly on the opening repertoire of Bobby Fischer, Tangborn explains how Black can meet unconventional systems with confidence by understanding key structures, piece placement, and typical middlegame plans. The emphasis is on ideas and strategy rather than memorizing endless variations, making it useful for tournament players seeking practical opening preparation.

Topics Covered

• Defenses against 1.c4 English Opening
• Responses to 1.Nf3 King’s Knight Attack
• Handling 1.f4 Bird’s Opening
• Countering 1.b4 Sokolsky Opening
• Positional themes and strategic plans
• Piece development and center control
• Practical middlegame transitions
• Analysis of instructive games

Key Features

• Written by International Master Eric Tangborn
• Complete defensive repertoire against flank openings
• Based partly on Bobby Fischer’s opening ideas
• Focuses on strategic concepts and practical plans
• Includes analysis of important opening positions
• Helps Black players prepare for uncommon but challenging systems

Recommended For

• Club players looking for dependable answers to unusual openings
• Tournament competitors building a complete Black repertoire
• Serious chess students studying opening strategy
• Players who want to understand plans and ideas instead of memorizing moves
• Fans of Bobby Fischer’s dynamic and practical approach to chess