About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling to navigate the shifting loyalties and complex social dynamics of middle school, particularly if they are witnessing a peer's family turmoil. This classic middle-grade story uses the strategic lens of chess to help quiet or observant children understand that real-life relationships require honesty and courage rather than manipulative games. Greg, a shy twelve-year-old, finds himself caught in a web of secrets when his friend Josie's parents go through a difficult divorce. While the book deals with the pain of parental separation and the pressure of keeping secrets, it ultimately provides a roadmap for integrity. It is an excellent choice for children who feel like outsiders or those who prefer intellectual hobbies over high-energy social scenes. It models how to stand up for what is right even when the 'moves' are difficult, making it a supportive read for developing emotional maturity and social discernment.
