Elsa’s Chessboard
In 1906 Vienna, Austria, six-year-old Elsa watches her brothers play chess. She soon learns to play, too, and thinks of chess every day. On her tenth birthday, Elsa receives her own chessboard and carved pieces. She carries it everywhere, even after she grows up. At the library, Elsa meets Edmund, and their courtship includes chess games—on picnics near the Danube River and even at the opera during intermission. After their wedding, they play chess while rocking their baby to sleep.
Then World War II threatens their lives. The family immigrates to America and takes the chessboard. Elsa works at a dress factory where everyone speaks different languages. But when Elsa teaches her co-workers to play chess, they can all communicate.
Based on author Jenny Andrus’s grandmother’s life, this beautiful story with lovely vintage illustrations captures the wonder of the game of chess alongside the fortitude of immigrant families. Highly recommended. Ages 4-8.
