What does a chess player need who is familiar with the rules, but often gets into trouble right away in the opening? This question was the starting point for the authors before they began to compile the material for a two-volume work about the English Opening. Volume 1 (published in 2024) deals with the Symmetrical Variation 1.c2-c4 c7-c5 and some rarely played side lines. Volume 2 covers the continuations 1.c4 e5 and 1.c4 Sf6 according to the guidelines of the series read – understand – play. The opening lines are explained in detail, with the authors paying special attention to the presentation of the inherent ideas and plans to ensure that the reader understands them properly instead of just playing moves learned by heart. Even the meaning and purpose of a single move may be explained, insofar as it is important for understanding. Based on the knowledge that the reader will surely acquire by studying this book, he will be able to use the discussed lines with the white and the black pieces in an appropriate way. At the same time, the work offers one or the other new idea that can surprise even an experienced opponent and promises interesting, entertaining and – last but not least – successful chess games. The correctness of the treated lines was checked with the help of leading engines. The symetrical English is available in Volume 1.