The birthplace of chess is shrouded in mystery. Some say India or China. Others attribute it to Persia or Greece. Another legend maintains that the game was created in the court of King Solomon about 3,000 years ago... This charming, enthralling, and suspenseful story takes place in the ancient kingdom of Persia. The hero, an impoverished teenager named Bijan, is a horse trainer who helps a wise old traveler... and rediscovers the game of chess. Ultimately, King Cyrus is so impressed by the game that he rewards Bijan with any single request.  Join Bijan on his incredible journey and watch his unique request take on a life of its own, ultimately altering the course of history. The ensuing events catapult both the king and the stable boy on an adventurous and bizarre global quest that is limited only by the reader s imagination. - from Amzon