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| The Queen of Katwe - Crothers |
The Queen of Katwe: A Review of Tim Crothers' Inspiring Chess Story
Tim Crothers' "The Queen of Katwe" tells the remarkable true story of Phiona Mutesi, a young girl from the slums of Uganda who rises to become a chess prodigy. It's a tale of hope, resilience, and the power of opportunity, showcasing how a seemingly simple game can transform lives in the face of incredible adversity.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Story Overview
- Characters and Themes
- Chess Aspects
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction
In a world often dominated by stories of privilege and access, "The Queen of Katwe" offers a refreshing and deeply moving narrative. Crothers expertly crafts a biography that is not just about chess, but about the human spirit's capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. This book will break your heart, but fill you with hope.
One day in 2005 while searching for food, nine-year-old Ugandan Phiona Mutesi followed her brother to a dusty veranda where she met Robert Katende. Katende, a war refugee turned missionary, had an improbable dream: to empower kids in the Katwe slums through chess a game so foreign there is no word for it in their native language. Laying a chessboard in the dirt, Robert began to teach. At first children came for a free bowl of porridge, but many grew to love the game that, like their daily lives, requires persevering against great obstacles. Of these kids, one girl stood out as an immense talent: Phiona.
Story Overview
The book chronicles Phiona's journey from the impoverished slums of Katwe to the international chess stage. It details her initial introduction to the game by Robert Katende, her rapid development as a player, and the challenges she faces as she navigates the world of competitive chess while battling poverty and societal expectations.
By the age of eleven Phiona was her country's junior champion, and at fifteen, the national champion. Now a Woman Candidate Master, the first female titled player in her country's history, Phiona dreams of becoming a Grandmaster, the most elite level in chess. But to reach that goal, she must grapple with everyday life in one of the worlds most unstable countries. "The Queen of Katwe" is a "remarkable" (NPR) and "riveting" (New York Post) book that shows how "Phiona's story transcends the limitations of the chessboard" (Robert Hess, US Grandmaster).
Author Details and Book Specifications
- Author: Tim Crothers
- Pages: 245
- Format: Paperback
- Publisher: Scribner
- Published: 2012
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Characters and Themes
The strength of the book lies in its richly drawn characters. Phiona is portrayed as a determined and resilient young woman, while Robert Katende embodies the role of a mentor and guide. The supporting characters, including Phiona's family and fellow chess players, add depth and authenticity to the story.
Key Themes
- Resilience: The ability to overcome adversity in the face of extreme poverty.
- Hope: The power of dreams and aspirations to drive individuals forward.
- Community: The importance of support and mentorship in achieving success.
- Opportunity: The transformative impact of access to education and resources.
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Chess Aspects
While the book is accessible to readers with little to no knowledge of chess, it also provides interesting insights into the game. It highlights the strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and mental discipline required to excel at chess. The book also touches on the challenges and rewards of competitive chess, both at the national and international levels.
Why Chess Matters
- Develops critical thinking skills
- Enhances problem-solving abilities
- Promotes strategic planning
- Encourages mental discipline
Garry Kasparov calls Phiona Mutesi a young star and calls her story incredible! "Phiona's story...will break readers' hearts. Phiona's perseverence, courage, faith, and hope will have the very same readers rooting from her success." - School Library Journal
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For more insightful biographies, check out this biography of a famous chess player, where you will learn new facts!
Final Thoughts
"The Queen of Katwe" is a truly inspiring and unforgettable story. It's a testament to the power of the human spirit and the ability of individuals to overcome even the most challenging circumstances. Whether you're a chess enthusiast or simply looking for a heartwarming and uplifting read, this book is highly recommended. Tim Crothers, a former senior writer at Sports Illustrated, is the author of The Man Watching, the biography of University of North Carolina women's soccer coach Anson Dorrance, and coauthor of Hard Work, the autobiography of UNC basketball coach Roy Williams. He lives in Chapell Hill, North Carolina, with his wife and two children.
Consider these reviews of the book: This extraordinary story will stop you and make you want to count your blessings! It confirms how the strength of the human spirit and determination can prevail. Tim's portrait of Ugandan chess prodigy Phiona Mutesi offers hope and inspiration to all humankind." - Laura Schroff, New York Times bestselling author of An Invisible Thread
"This story has the power to inspire girls everywhere." - Alexandra Kosteniuk, Grandmaster 12th Women's World Chess Champion
You can purchase "The Queen of Katwe" by Tim Crothers from here: The Queen of Katwe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is "The Queen of Katwe" about?
It is the true story of Phiona Mutesi, a young girl from Uganda who overcomes poverty to become a chess champion.
Who is the author of the book?
The book is written by Tim Crothers, a former senior writer at Sports Illustrated.
Is "The Queen of Katwe" suitable for young readers?
Yes, it is a family-friendly story that can inspire readers of all ages.
What are the main themes explored in the book?
The book explores themes of resilience, hope, community, and the transformative power of opportunity.
Where can I buy "The Queen of Katwe"?
You can purchase the book from various online retailers and bookstores.
We hope you enjoyed this review of "The Queen of Katwe". Feel free to leave your comments and share your thoughts below!
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