When Auggie Learned to Play Chess, written by Meredith Rusu and Illustrated by Stephen Costanza. Auggie is not happy to have moved. He misses his old house by the sea and isn’t fitting into the countryside, or his new school. Then he finds his father’s old chessboard that was given to him by his father, his Tatâ, and Auggie’s father offers to teach Auggie how to play chess.
Auggie practices and practices. Then, when Auggie finds a chessboard in his classroom at school, he teaches Luke how to play chess, too.
There are detailed descriptions and illustrations about the chess pieces and diagrams showing how they move. It’s a wonderful introduction to young readers who might be interested in learning how to play chess.
Auggie’s father tells Auggie that “Bunicu used to tell me that no matter where he went, playing chess always felt the same.” (Bunicu is Romanian for Grandfather)
This story is a terrific introduction to the game of chess. But it is also a multi-layered tale about facing new situations, feeling alone, and reaching out to learn new things and find your way.
A big “Thank you” to Katy at Sidekick Coffee and Books for another fabulous book recommendation!
What a real and wonderful story! I love Auggie’s reaction to school and how his father handles it. I have seen chess spark companionships between my grandson and other kids -it really is a wonderful game.
Thank you for visiting PBB and for leaving your thoughtful comment, Robin. The thread of chess uniting generations and cultures was a touching theme in the book that I really appreciated.
Thank you for recommending this book! It looks great, and I just ordered it from the library. Makes me want to re-learn how to play chess…
Hi Claire, I hope you enjoy the book. Chess is a wonderful game and reading this made me want to dust off my old set!
Thanks for sharing this Jennifer. I remember when my sons learned chess. I still don’t know how to play. Maybe it’s time.
Perhaps they would enjoy teaching you, Deb? Thank you so much for stopping by and taking the time to comment. Have a wonderful day!
Such a tender book uniting generations. I agree with Claire…I want to relearn how to play chess.
Oh, what a great start to this book! I can’t wait to read it!
Looking forward to reading this! My library system has ordered 6 copies and I’m 5th in line. 🙂
That lunchroom illustration! I also love the main character’s eyes. They seem to share so much in their glances. The relationship between the characters as chess pieces fill their lives is just wonderful. I will absolutely find this book to share!