On August 14th, from 1-3pm, stop by and meet Jesse Joshua Watson, the illustrator for Chess Rumble.

Marcus is learning to react to frustration with his fists. 'In my 'hood, battles is fought every day,' but when he meets CM, the local Chess Master, he begins to learn how to fight battles on the chess board instead and in time, learns to take responsibility for his own actions. Written in free verse and brilliantly illustrated in blacks, whites, and grays which echo the dynamic of Marcus's urban home as well as his temper, this book is truly unique.

"[Chess Rumble] will become a standby pick for reluctant readers, who will be pulled in before they know it by the story's quick pace and the authenticity of Marcus's voice and experience." — School Library Journal

An American Library Association Notable Book Selection for 2008

Jesse Joshua Watson is an artist and illustrator whose work has appeared in galleries, on CD covers, and more recently in children's books. An avid traveler, Watson's artwork reflects the cultures and people he connects with along the way. In addition to the Chess Rumble, you'll find Watson's illustrations in the New York Times Bestselling Hank Zipzer series of books, written by Henry Winkler (aka "the Fonz") and Lin Oliver, The Ziggy and the Black Dinosaurs series by Sharon Draper and These Things I Wish by Lee Pitts.

Jesse Watson loves to connect with people. He loves both the differences and the similarities that are so colorfully displayed across our diverse world and his passion and appreciation of people is voiced through his brush and on his canvas. Watson lives with his wife and their sons in Port Townsend, Washington.

Stop by and meet Jesse Watson - pick up a copy of Chess Rumble - and find out what's next for this talented artist!

Watch an interview with G. Neri and Jesse Joshua Watson about Chess Rumble!

Buy a Signed Copy of Chess Rumble - $14.95