Here’s a complete review of Creating The Queen’s Gambit , the official companion book to the hit Netflix series. Format: Hardcover / Coffee Table Book Authors: Various (including series creator Scott Frank, producer William Horberg, and costume designer Gabriele Binder) Pages: ~272 Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5) Overview Creating The Queen’s Gambit is not a novelization or sequel, but a behind-the-scenes art and making-of book released in 2021, timed with the show’s massive success. It covers every aspect of the production: writing, casting, set design, costumes, cinematography, chess consulting, and music. The book is richly illustrated with never-before-seen production photos, concept art, storyboards, costume sketches, and location shots. What Works Well 1. Stunning Visuals The book is a visual feast. You get full-page spreads of Anya Taylor-Joy in iconic costumes (those 1960s coats, the beehive hair, the sleek pantsuits), alongside moody shots of the Methuen orphanage, the Mexico City hotel, and the Moscow tournament hall. Concept art vs. final shot comparisons are particularly revealing.

From the 1960s motel signs to the Soviet-era Brutalist architecture, the production designers reveal how they recreated Kentucky, Las Vegas, Paris, and Moscow on limited budgets. A full section on props includes Beth’s green pills, the chess pieces (custom-made), and the magazine covers.

Essential for fans; highly recommended for anyone interested in modern television production.