Go Reviews

Handbook of Star Point Joseki
Edited by the Nihon Kiin
Yutopian Enterprises
Reviewed by Lon Atkins, 12k
May 19, 2003

A wonderful resource for any player, this very thorough dictionary of star point joseki is invaluable for the beginner starting to think beyond the simple handicap joseki we first learn. Aggressive and tricky tries by White are analyzed to reveal White's goals and Black's best responses. A generous helping of diagrams shows the underlying reasons for plays, without confusing the reader with too many moves. For one to improve at go, understanding the 'why" is more important than memorizing the "what." Two aspects of the book are especially good. The many double approaches against the star point (when black plays elsewhere) are systematically discussed, and a section called "supplemental joseki" provides other perspectives into each major division of joseki. Kudos to Yutopian for publishing this gem, and to Craig Hutchinson (editor and layout master) and Robert Terry (translator).

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