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The King's Chessboard

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( 142 ratings, 22 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The King's Chessboard by David Birch is a charming children's tale that revolves around a clever man who receives a reward from a king. When asked how he would like to be compensated, the man requests a single grain of rice on the chessboard's first square, doubling it on each consecutive square. This seemingly simple request highlights the power of exponential growth, leading to a surprise for the king.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you love clever stories with a touch of mathematics and a wise message. It's perfect for young readers who enjoy tales of wit and wisdom, as it follows a king who learns a valuable lesson about humility and generosity through a game of chess. This story skilfully weaves traditional folklore with an engaging plot that both entertains and educates.

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The King's Chessboard

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

"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 favour. 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.

This book is recognised as a Notable Children's Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies and an Outstanding Science Trade Book for Children.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The King's Chessboard by David Birch is praised for its engaging narrative and clever moral, which introduces children to concepts of wisdom and consequence. Reviewers appreciate the way the story combines a simple tale with powerful mathematics, illustrating the exponential growth through the chessboard analogy. Its vibrant illustrations and thought-provoking message make it a favourite for both educational and entertainment purposes amongst parents and educators.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780140548808

Publisher: Penguin Random House Australia

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 01 July 1993

Country: Australia

Imprint: Puffin

Audience: Children

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 3.0mm

Width: 214.0mm

Height: 267.0mm

Weight: 136g

Pages: 32

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