Tactics & Tales: Chinese Chess Fun at the Museum

Xiangqi (象棋; also known as Chinese chess or elephant chess) is one of the most beloved board games in China and Chinese communities across the world. The game represents a battle between two generals and their armies, each strategizing how to cross the river to capture the enemy’s palace.

Join author Catherine Little for an all-ages reading of her picture book, ENDGAME: The Secret Force 136. As Alex visits his great-grandfather to learn to play xiangqi, he unexpectedly learns more than just the tactics of the game when his Tai Gong starts to reminisce about his secret past. What tales will he share about the mysterious Force 136?
* Readings are scheduled at 10 A.M., 11:15 A.M., and 12:30 P.M. only.

Following the readings, come and play a game of xiangqi yourself! The Vancouver Xiangqi Association will be lending their sets and expertise to teach you the strategies of this popular board game. There will also be materials to make your own paper xiangqi set! Drop-in anytime between 10 A.M. to 3 P.M. to play.

About ENDGAME: The Secret Force 136:

In Endgame: The Secret Force 136, Alex’s imagination takes him to medieval Chinese battlefields as he learns to play xiangqi (Chinese chess) with his great-grandfather, Tai Gong. In the months that they spend over the chessboard, Alex comes to understand the important strategies that guided Tai Gong and his decisions as he navigated life as a Chinese Canadian in an anti-Asian era in Canada. In the process, Alex learns about the mysterious Force 136 and the sacrifices its members made to show their loyalty to a country that had utterly disregarded them.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, May 24, 2025

• Location: Chinese Canadian Museum (51 E Pender St.)

• Time: 10 A.M - 3 P.M.
  “ENDGAME” Readings: 10 A.M., 11:15 A.M., 12:30 P.M. only

• Cost: Included with admission

• Register: Registration link here