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Kiseido Releases Updated 21st Century Joseki Dictionary

Calling it "an indispensable study tool and reference work," Kiseido has just released the 21st Century Dictionary of Basic Joseki, Volume1 in English. The Dictionary“is a thorough updating and complete rewriting of the Yoshio Ishida Dictionary of Basic Joseki published in the mid-70s,” according to Kiseido. “Like the Ishida work, it thoroughly analyses the various components of josekis, such as tesujis and good style and good shape, and focuses in depth on such themes as securing momentum and building influence.” This first volume of the dictionary covers not only long-established josekis familiar to players of all levels but also the many new variations of old josekis, such as the Magic Sword and the Large Avalanche, that have been developed in recent decades, including the first decade of the 21st century. "Each joseki is backed up by numerous diagrams exploring alternative moves and mistakes, to ensure that the reader understands the joseki fully," Kiseido says. The author, Shinji Takao, is a top Japanese professional who has held both the Honinbo and Meijin titles. His book retains the variations from its predecessor that are relevant to contemporary play but also gives countless new variations, reflecting the widespread innovations generated by professional go in the Far East in the last three decades. Kiseido is currently working on a translation of the Dictionary's second volume, scheduled for a 2012 release. Check out the Kiseido Newsletter for more information on this and other newly-released books. - Daniel Nichols