by Igor Sukhin, Hardcover, Large Format, 152pp.(2008 Mongoose Press)

This large format, hardcover, full color book is an attractive, entertaining introduction to the game and strategies of chess for children. Many studies have been done on the benefits of teaching children to play chess. While aimed at ages 6 to 10, this book will be a welcome addition for adults and beginners of any age.
 
“Many parents feel daunted by the prospect of trying to teach their young children to play chess. If you are unsure of how to teach your child the game, fear not. Igor Sukhin's Gary's Adventures in Chess Country, has been carefully designed to take the intimidation factor out of learning chess. Set in the magical realm of Chess Country, it reads like a children's bedtime story; yet, at the same time, it introduces the game of chess gradually, using stories, puzzles, riddles, and quizzes.
 
“Too often I have seen young students overwhelmed by the task of learning the moves of the chess pieces. If the entire game is presented at once, without time for any review, frustration often results. Gary's Adventures in Chess Country continually reinforces what has been learned through its stories and chess problems. By the time your child plays his or her first game, he or she will already have solved dozens of puzzles reinforcing each chess rule. He or she will be able to make chess moves with confidence.
 
Finally, Gary's Adventures in Chess Country is more than just an instruction manual. It is a tool to help you create your own unique chess adventure with your child. It is an invitation to a chess expedition, an exciting journey that just keeps getting better. It is my hope that after reading about the adventures of Gary, Cassie, Riddles, and their friends, your child will embark on his or her own richly rewarding chess adventures.” – From the Introduction by Susan Polgar