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The Calling of a Teacher
Chess Heart follows the third graders of Forest Elementary, who are introduced to the mysterious Chess Lady and learn about the game of chess. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Some of my students’ favorite picture books over the years have been the beloved classics An Angel for Solomon Singer by Cynthia Rylant, Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney, and Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge by Mem Fox. These stories resonated with my pupils, who were intrigued by the adult characters and the intergenerational relationships, helping them make text-to-life connections with important adults in their own worlds, both at home and at school. Inspired by this premise, the idea of crafting a story about a mysterious chess teacher came to life in my imagination and developed over time.
What themes were important for you to explore in this book?
One key theme is captured in my opening quote: “The calling of a teacher cannot be easily set aside.” This idea is deeply personal for me, as I had always yearned to be a teacher but spent years in management and graphic design before returning to my true passion. Though I was highly successful in that field, the strong pull toward teaching never left my heart. Eventually, I went back to complete my degree and obtain my license, and I have been an educator ever since. Other important themes in the book include perseverance, respect, empathy, the value of intergenerational relationships on both sides, and caring—qualities that are essential in fostering character development and reinforced by guidance counselors and instructors in classrooms every day. Additionally, the setting of a Valentine’s Day celebration, a time to honor love, friendship, and community, adds another layer of meaning to the narrative.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I particularly enjoyed collaborating with my incredibly talented illustrator, Barry Davian, on the scenes that reveal the backstory of the mysterious chess lady. I shared my thoughts with him, and Barry elevated those ideas through his art. Only in the nuanced illustrations can readers infer what may have interrupted Miss Kay’s journey as a teacher. The outcome was both thrilling and heartwarming, even bringing a tear to my eye. I believe students will enjoy analyzing the chess lady’s history and imagining various interpretations by closely studying the colorful and captivating artwork that Barry created.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m currently working on the second book in my Bear Adventures in the Smoky Mountains series, which should be available in time for Christmas. The working title is Papa Jed’s Christmas Eve Awakening.
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Chess Heart
Chess Heart by Victoria Winifred is a charming children’s story set in the small town of Madison, Tennessee, centering around a Valentine’s Day luncheon at Forest Elementary. The story unfolds as the third graders meet the mysterious “Chess Lady,” who is soon revealed to be Miss Kay, a former chess teacher with a past that slowly unfolds. She captivates the kids, especially Justin, as she tells a whimsical tale about chess and teaches them the game. The story is about more than chess though, it is about connection, second chances and finding things you thought were lost forever.
I have to admit, I got hooked from the start. The way the author introduces Miss Kay, this enigmatic figure, riding her bike into the gym, makes it feel like magic is about to happen. I mean, who doesn’t want to meet someone called “The Chess Lady,” who swoops in with her black and white attire like a human chessboard? It’s one of those stories that wraps you up in a cozy, small-town vibe but throws in a dash of mystery. The kids’ excitement, especially Justin’s nervousness, is so relatable. I think we have all had that moment where we are just dying to ask someone something and it feels like the most important thing in the world.
I loved how Winifred used chess as a metaphor throughout the book. When Miss Kay sets up the chess pieces while weaving a story about kingdoms and knights, it’s more than just a game, it’s life. You get the sense that Miss Kay isn’t just teaching the kids chess, she’s sharing pieces of wisdom wrapped in the guise of rooks and bishops. And can we talk about the moment Justin places a heart-shaped chocolate on the board as a stand-in for the missing queen? That just hit me right in the feels. It’s such a pure, sweet gesture, and you can tell it means so much to Miss Kay. Winifred really knows how to hit those emotional notes without being over the top.
That said, the book has a sense of mystery that keeps pulling you in. Miss Kay’s backstory is hinted at throughout, and you’re left wondering what’s happened in her life to make her so guarded. The scene where Miss Kay hesitates to teach the kids, looking at the clock, was so well done. It’s like she’s carrying this invisible weight, and it’s not until the end that you feel like she’s finally found a little peace. The whole idea of “finding the queen” goes beyond just chess, it’s like Miss Kay has found a piece of herself she thought she’d lost forever. The writing here feels personal, like you’re hearing this story from a close friend, which I loved.
The art in Chess Heart, illustrated by Barry Davian, adds a whimsical and nostalgic charm to the story. The illustrations are soft and warm, perfectly complementing the heartwarming tone of the narrative. Each scene feels like a gentle, hand-drawn invitation into the world of Forest Elementary, with expressions that bring the characters to life—especially Miss Kay, whose poised yet approachable demeanor shines through. Whether it’s the vivid Valentine decorations or the chess pieces Miss Kay brings out, every illustration feels thoughtfully crafted.
Chess Heart is more than just a cute story about chess. It’s a heartwarming tale about community, friendship, and finding your way back to something you love. If you are into stories that feel like a warm hug with a side of gentle life lessons then this book is for you. Kids will love the chess adventure, and adults will appreciate the deeper themes of second chances and the power of kindness.
Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0DJWHBQ4N
