floresnellie30 November 23, 2024

Chess Book Recommendations for November

When I think of November I tend to think of rainy days, dark nights, falling leaves, and all things dark academia. Yes, I know that Christmas is in the air for many, but for me, November is the last little bit of autumn. And one of my favorite things to do in November is rewatch The Queen’s Gambit on Netflix and then attempt to play chess with my husband, Denis. Chess is the ultimate dark academia game because it takes strategy, deep concentration, and skill. And surprisingly enough, chess has long been a source of inspiration in the literary world.

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You might wonder why so many writers are drawn to chess as a central theme in their books. Well, chess fiction gives readers the ability to delve into the minds of characters who are both players of the game as well as participants in stories about ambition, loss, and triumph. So let’s take a look at some of the best chess fiction books out there.

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The Queen’s Gambit by Walter Tevis

Let’s start with the obvious choice. This book follows a chess prodigy named Beth Harmon as she navigates the male-dominated world of chess during the 1960s. Beth struggles with addiction and her own personal demons, but above all odds, she manages to rise to prominence and fame in the world of chess.

Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood

The world of chess can also be found in YA books thanks to authors like Ali Hazelwood. This book is about Mallory Greenleaf, a chess prodigy who is officially done with chess. When chess nearly destroys her family, she decides to give it up and focus on helping her mom and sisters. But her plans change when she finds herself in one last charity chess tournament with “kingkiller/chess bad boy” Nolan Sawyer. As Mallory shoots up the ranks, she slowly rekindles the love of the game, grows closer to Nolan, and starts to realize that maybe chess isn’t the only game she’s playing.

The Last Checkmate by Gabriella Saab

Set in 1942 Nazi-occupied Poland, this book follows Eva, a young Jewish girl and talented chess player who becomes involved in the resistance movement. When Eva is captured by the Nazis and brought to a concentration camp, she fears that all is lost. But by using her skills in chess, Eva must outwit the enemy and have courage in the face of overwhelming odds. This book is a compelling, emotional, and thought-provoking novel that you won’t want to put down.

The Queen of Katwe by Tim Crothers

The last book on this list tells the remarkable story of Phiona Mutesi, a real-life Ugandan chess prodigy who defied the odds of her surroundings to achieve greatness. Readers follow Phiona’s humble beginnings in the slums of Katwe to the grand stage of international chess tournaments. Phiona’s story is one of hope, perseverance, and the determination to reach your full potential. For even more information about this book check out the Disney movie under the same name.

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