I must admit that I had initial doubts about this book; $22.00 and just 144 pages doesn't usually add up to good value for the money. However, Mortazavi's study of the Kan turned out to be a lot better than I expected.

Its strength lies in the first 41 pages where the author gives, in great detail, all the basic ideas and plans for both sides. I think his discussion of Maroczy Bind and Hedgehog formations would enrich any amateur's game, and I highly recommend those early pages even if you have no intention of playing this highly interesting variation of the Sicilian. The rest of the book takes a look at the individual variations of the Kan. Here he mixes prose and variations nicely, and he deserves a lot of credit for not bashing out an endless array of moves and analysis as so many books do nowadays.

His efforts to teach us something so we don't have to rely on pure memory are very well-intentioned, but his decision to list the variations and chapters by ideas rather than clear moves didn't turn out as well as one might expect: I found myself a bit bogged down by lines and ideas that seemingly came from all directions. I could only think that if I was getting confused, how would a "C," "B" or "A" player fare?

I must say that the Kan is a sound opening that is well worth studying. Tossing my occasional confusion aside, it's clear to me that if you do want to learn this system, Mortazavi's clear writing style makes this a great way to go about it.

One final word. As mentioned, the price of $22.00 seems high, but since Henry Holt and Company, Inc. is no longer distributing this book, the price has dived to almost give-away proportions in many book stores (as low as $4.98, remaindered!). If you can get it for this small amount, grab it as fast as you can; it won't last for long!

YOU CAN FIND THIS BOOK AT