Children's Chess Time

Start the New Year with a new skill! This year, children seeking to challenge themselves and learn something new can check out Chess Time, a chess group for kids at the library. Among its many benefits, playing chess can help build confidence, strengthen problem-solving skills, promote creativity, and is a great way to meet new friends. Most importantly, it’s fun! Read on to learn more about our children’s chess group and related titles in our collection. 

Chess Time

• Thursdays, 3:30 – 5:30PM at Fairfield Library
• January 18, February 15, March 21, April 18, May 16
  • Children in grades K-5 can drop in for a casual game or two, learn the basics of the game, and peruse books on chess strategy. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned player, all experience levels are welcome!

As we gear up for our first meeting, get a leg up on future opponents by browsing titles in our collection! Below are a few books to help get you started:

COLLECTION

Chess 101:

Learn the ins and outs of the game as well as tips on strategy and tactics.

• Chess for Children by Sabrina Chevannes (also available on Hoopla)
• Get Into Chess by Rachel Stuckey
• How A King Plays: 64 Chess Tips from a Kid Champion by Oliver Boydell
• How to Play Chess by DK Publishing
• How to Win at Chess : From First Moves to Checkmate by Daniel King

Biographies and Other Stories for Chess Fans:

Read biographies about real-life chess stars and fictional tales about kids, just like you, who learn how to play. 

• Alex and the Wednesday Chess Club by Janet Wong
  • After losing a match to Uncle Hooya, Alex vows to never play chess again. But when other hobbies aren’t as fun, Alex joins chess club and rediscovers his love for the game. Now he must prepare for a rematch with another Hooya — his cousin! Is he up for the challenge?

• Not an Easy Win by Chrystal Giles
  • Twelve-year-old Lawrence is having a tough time. After moving in with his grandma, Lawrence is expelled from his new school for a fight he didn’t start. It’s not until he begins helping with a chess program at the rec center that things start to turn around. Eager for a spot to compete in an upcoming chess tournament, Lawrence begins to find hope and purpose in his new home.

• The Queen of Chess : How Judit Polgár Changed the Game by Laurie Wallmark
  • Read about the rise of Judit Polgár, the Hungarian chess prodigy who became the youngest chess grandmaster in history and has ranked among the top ten players in the world.

• Tani's New Home: A Refugee Finds Hope & Kindness in America by Tani Adewumi (also available on Hoopla)
  • Read about the inspiring story of Tani Adewumi, a Nigerian refugee who, at the age of eight, won the New York State Chess Championship after teaching himself how to play.