The Queen of Katwe
The Queen of Katwe
Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2012
Book Brief
256
Biography • Nonfiction
Kampala, Uganda • 2000s
2012
Adult
12-17 years
Super Short Summary
The Queen of Katwe by Tim Crothers chronicles the life of Phiona Mutesi, a Ugandan woman who became a chess prodigy and later a world-renowned chess champion. Raised in the slums of Katwe amidst economic strife and civil war, Mutesi transforms from a child with no formal education to a national chess champion under the mentorship of Robert Katende, demonstrating resilience and dedication. The book includes references to extreme poverty and illness.
Inspirational
Hopeful
Heartwarming
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
3,606 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Tim Crothers's The Queen of Katwe is widely praised for its inspirational true story about Phiona Mutesi's journey from the slums of Uganda to becoming an international chess champion. Reviewers commend its poignant narrative and the portrayal of socio-economic challenges. Some criticize it for uneven pacing that occasionally detracts from the central story. Overall, it is a compelling read with a powerful message of resilience.
Who Should Read The Queen of Katwe?
Readers who would enjoy The Queen of Katwe by Tim Crothers are likely drawn to inspirational biographies that highlight triumph over adversity. Fans of The Pursuit of Happyness and Hidden Figures will appreciate the real-life story of Ugandan chess prodigy Phiona Mutesi's rise from poverty to chess champion.
3,606 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
256
Biography • Nonfiction
Kampala, Uganda • 2000s
2012
Adult
12-17 years
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