Across the Battlefield: A Pawn's Journey - Paperback

by Jonathan Ferry (Author), Caroline Zina (Illustrator)

Embark on an Enchanting Journey that Sharpens Young Minds through an Unforgettable Chess Adventure

In chess, life does not get any more difficult than when you are a pawn. Hindered by limited mobility, Prunella the pawn feels painfully aware of her weaknesses and misunderstands her true worth. Convinced that a promotion to queen will finally prove her value, she sets out on a daring adventure to cross the chessboard and realize her dreams. But confronted with a daunting army standing in her way, she doubts that she will ever succeed.

Join Prunella as she navigates the highs and lows of a tumultuous chess battle, learning the strategies and tactics needed to succeed in chess alongside her. Follow along as her journey to becoming a queen transforms into a quest of self-discovery, perseverance, and the profound realization that amidst the challenges we face, it is the support we find in one another that counts.

"Across the Battlefield is a wonderful combination of foundational chess teaching and the captivating tale of Prunella the pawn that I am sure kids will love and learn from a great deal. My 8-year-old son and I had a great time reading it. Highly recommended!" - GM Leinier Dominguez, 2008 Blitz Chess World Champion

"Both my daughters loved the adventures of Prunella the pawn! Across the Battlefield is a wonderfully enjoyable (and instructive!) underdog story that I'm sure many will love." - IM Danny Rensch, Chief Chess Officer - Chess.com

"MUST READ! I wish I could give Across the Battlefield: A Pawn's Journey more than five stars! In Across the Battlefield, Jonathan Ferry offers an excellent introduction to chess for kids (and adults too!) that is fun and educational in equal measure. Caroline Zina's whimsical illustrations and the adventurous story can be enjoyed by the whole family, regardless of whether you have prior knowledge or interest in chess." - Reedsy Discovery

"Beautifully written throughout, this is truly a work that will capture the imagination of players (& readers) young and old alike. Jonathan Ferry has a real talent as a teacher and as a writer." - Ben Graff, English Chess Federation

"Across the Battlefield is a lovely story, beautifully written and enchantingly illustrated, that will appeal to many children - especially, but not only, girls - aged from about 6 or 7 upwards...many children will, understandably, fall in love with the book." - British Chess News

"Across the Battlefield: A Pawn's Journey receives four stars. The story is well-told and the illustrations are absolutely beautifully done... For anyone wanting to teach chess to a young child or grandchild, this is a good little book." - American Chess Magazine

"Across the Battlefield is a captivating tale and guide that could help young players learn and enjoy chess." - Kirkus Reviews

"Across the Battlefield: A Pawn's Journey is entertaining and instructional. Vivid illustrations contribute to the story's appeal to young players. They are mesmerizing and help tell a convincing story about being timid but brave when facing what appears to be overwhelming obstacles... It's a heartwarming story that young readers will want to read again and again." - Ray Linville - Chess.com