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Sage kneels beside a large pawn and knight, wearing her rust jacket.

Sage’s chess journeys · Book 1

A Place on the Board

Sage’s First Chess Journey

By Robert Wescott

Sage wants the queen. The card in her hand shows a pawn. When a bishop threatens the king, she discovers a place where her small piece can help.

48 pages · 8.5 × 8.5 inches · Paperback · $11.99 USD
Ages 5–8 · Adult-led starting activities for ages 3–5

Secure checkout, printing, and shipping by Lulu. Shipping and applicable taxes are shown at checkout.

A story, then a game

One small step can matter.

An illustrated chess story and beginner guide for ages 5–8, with matching, movement games, and an adult-led route for ages 3–5.

What you can explore

  • Match and name the pieces
  • Explore movement through six playful activities
  • Discover checks, captures, and king safety
  • Keep special moves nearby as a reference

Use a real chessboard and pieces. Read one page, try a move, and make room for your child’s idea. One happy activity can be enough for today.

A look inside

From the page to your board.

Book 1, page 28: Rook movement and a delivery activity
Page 28
Book 1, page 29: Rook movement and a delivery activity
Page 29

Read and play at your pace

Choose a place to begin.

Start here if your family is new to chess. Matching, tracing, and one-piece activities give younger children a gentle way in.

For ages 3–5, enjoy the story and choose a simple activity with an adult. The complete guide is not a checklist to finish.

Meet the companion book

The Other Side of the Board — Sage’s Next Chess Journey

Explore attacks, guards, and what your partner might do next.

Explore Book 2

See the two-book reading and play route

A few practical questions

Does an adult need to know chess already?

Book One welcomes adults who are learning too. Book Two builds on basic piece movement and king safety. Keep Book One nearby for reminders.

Are the board and pieces included?

No. These are illustrated books. Use your own chessboard and pieces for the activities.

Do we have to read the guide in order?

No. Choose one activity, repeat a favorite, swap roles, or finish for today.

Where will the paperback be sold?

Use the paperback purchase link above for Lulu’s secure checkout. You can also read the free sample before choosing.