Stonewall II

This Stonewall II is a revised and updated German-language chess opening book on the Stonewall system in the Dutch Defence, written for players who want to understand the strategic and tactical ideas behind this structure and use it in a Black repertoire against 1.d4.

What this book covers

Written by GM Jacob Aagaard, the book shows that the Stonewall is more than a surprise weapon. It presents the opening as a practical part of Black’s repertoire and focuses on the classic pawn structure with pawns on c6, d5, e6 and f5.

Aagaard also addresses the critical view of the opening and argues that, with a proper grasp of the plans involved, Black can reach sound and playable positions. The system has been used successfully by strong grandmasters including Botvinnik, Yusupov, Short and Bareev.

How the material is organised

The book is divided into six main parts, preceded by a substantial introduction. That structure makes the content easier to work through, because each chapter concentrates on a specific White plan or an important branch of the system.

• Preface
• Introduction
• Chapter on White’s 7.b3
• Chapter on White’s 7.Bf4
• Chapter on White’s 7th-move alternatives: 7.Nbd2, 7.Ne5, 7.Qc2
• Chapter on 5.Nh3
• Chapter on other Stonewall variations
• Chapter on early e3 systems
• Game index

Rather than limiting itself to move orders, the book explains the ideas behind the moves, the typical plans and the moments where inaccuracies can easily arise. That makes it useful not only for players building a Black repertoire, but also for club players who want a better understanding of positions arising from the Dutch Defence.

The analysis covers Black’s responses to 7.b3 and 7.Bf4, less common but important alternatives on move seven, and the demanding 5.Nh3 system, which Aagaard treats as one of the most serious challenges to the Stonewall. There is also a separate chapter on other Black setups and on early e3 systems, known as the Karpov Variation.

Why it is useful

The book’s strength lies in the way the material is presented. Each chapter begins with a short introduction, and the reader is given summaries, an expanded variation index and additional diagrams showing key positions. The analyses are based on 94 games, which gives the book a solid practical foundation for further study.

This is a good choice for players looking for an opening book that combines concrete analysis with clear explanations of the underlying ideas. If you are interested in Stonewall, the Dutch Defence or building a Black repertoire against 1.d4, this book offers a structured and practical study resource.

Reviews and opinions

Reviews describe it as a well-prepared and clearly organised opening book with strong theoretical value. They also note that Aagaard explains both the basic principles and the important strategic and tactical aspects of the Stonewall formation in an accessible way.

The layout is praised as well thought out, and the diagrams and summaries make it easy to return to the most important positions. One suggestion was that the material could be expanded with an additional chapter on some rejected lines, especially those connected with the Staunton Gambit.

Review conclusion: a recommended opening book from Quality Chess and Jacob Aagaard.

Key details

• Product type: chess opening book
• Language: German
• Author: GM Jacob Aagaard
• Subject: Stonewall system in the Dutch Defence
• Edition: revised and updated edition
• Opening focus: Black repertoire against 1.d4
• Game count: 94 games
• Structure: six main parts with chapter summaries, diagrams and a game index