Ivan Sokolov's 'Understanding Middlegame Strategies' is a comprehensive 14-part series designed for chess players looking to enhance their middlegame skills. The initial volumes focus on opening-independent themes, particularly dynamic pawns and practical play. Sokolov's approach is not to create a rigid structure but rather to allow players to choose volumes based on their interests, such as starting with practical play or transitioning to specific opening structures like the Ruy Lopez. The first volume, 'Dynamic Pawns,' explores concepts like minor sacrifices and pawn rollers, while the second, 'Practical Play,' emphasizes decision-making processes in middlegame scenarios. Each volume includes interactive training positions that reinforce the strategies discussed. Although the arrangement of topics may seem unsystematic, the series offers high-quality training material presented with clarity and an engaging style, making it both instructive and enjoyable for players at various levels.