Elsa's Chessboard

Elsa carries her chessboard everywhere, always ready for a game. When World War II forces her from Europe, can chess help make America home?

Growing up in 1900s Vienna, Elsa’s brothers are always playing chess. “No girls!” they tell her when she first asks to learn; but she’s determined, and soon she’s such a pro that they give Elsa her very own special chessboard.

From then on, Elsa plays chess whenever she can. When she grows up, she even meets her husband over games in the park. But when World War II grips Europe, the young Jewish family flees to America, where they find themselves surrounded by unfamiliar languages. Luckily, Elsa knows one language that can always bring people together: chess! 

Over the course of her life, Elsa's cherished chessboard will take her to new places while keeping her tethered to her truest self—no matter how many challenges the world throws her way. 

Based on the life of author Jenny Andrus’s grandmother, with illustrations by award-winning artist Julie Downing, Elsa’s Chessboard is an inspiring and exciting tale, perfect for any reader who's ever found meaning in a special object.

One of Tablet’s Best Jewish Children’s Books of the Year
A CALIBA Golden Poppy Finalist