Once a Pawn a Time
A playful, story-driven introduction to chess that builds strategy, confidence, and critical thinking for beginners.
$29.95
2026 Third-Grade Curriculum Kit
Once a Pawn a Time teaches your child to play chess through a story about two quirky kingdoms going to war on a checkered battlefield. The chess pieces in the box are custom-designed to match the illustrations in the books exactly — so when your child meets the bishop on the page, he recognizes the same character on his board. By the end of the first book, he's playing a real game.
The first book covers the pieces, the board, and how everything moves. The second digs into strategy — piece value, basic checkmates, the endgame — in short, easy-to-read chapters.
You don't need to know chess yourself. Parents who've never moved a piece can learn alongside their child, page by page.
Recommended for ages 7 to 15. Includes a folding board, a full set of custom chess pieces, and both books. Modern Library Award winner.
