The King’s Chessboard

The King’s Chessboard by David Birch is a reprint edition published by Penguin on July 1, 1993. This 32-page book, written in English, presents a story designed for children that intertwines mathematical concepts with a narrative about a wise man and a king. The tale explores themes of reward and cleverness through a unique proposal involving rice and the squares of a chessboard.
Readers will find that The King’s Chessboard effectively introduces counting and numbers within the context of a classic story. The narrative illustrates how the wise man’s request for rice, doubling with each passing day, leads to unexpected consequences for the king. This engaging approach not only entertains but also serves as a tool for children to grasp fundamental mathematical ideas while enjoying a story about strategy and resourcefulness.
Official synopsis Publisher
“Masterfully told.”—School Library Journal
A great story for children learning mathematical concepts, The King’s Chessboard tells the story of a wise man who refuses the king’s reward for completing a favor. When the king insists the man accept a reward, the man proposes a deal: He will take a payment of rice equal to each square on the king’s chessboard—doubling the amount he receives with each day. This quickly empties out the royal coffers. . . .
A Notable Children’s Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies and Outstanding Science Trade Book for Children
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