David Klass’s Grandmaster is an intriguing story that combines the intensity of competitive chess with themes of self-discovery, mental health, and family relationships. While not a book for everyone, it’s an excellent choice for middle schoolers who enjoy chess, thoughtful narratives, or stories about navigating the pressures of high achievement.
The Story of Daniel and His Father
The novel follows Daniel Pratzer, a high school freshman and a less-than-skilled member of his school’s popular chess club. Daniel’s journey begins when the club’s top players invite him to join a father-son chess tournament, with one condition: he must bring his dad.
Daniel’s surprise at being included soon turns to shock when he discovers that his unassuming father was once a grandmaster chess player—a title his father has kept hidden. Over the course of the weekend tournament, the story delves into the highs and lows of their relationship, the pressures of competition, and the emotional toll that high-stakes games can take.
Themes That Resonate
Grandmaster doesn’t shy away from heavy topics. It touches on mental health issues, including Daniel’s father’s past struggles with stress, self-doubt, and a history of self-harm stemming from the pressure of competing at the grandmaster level. The novel also explores themes of self-worth, familial bonds, and the fine line between pursuing excellence and maintaining balance.
These themes make the book a valuable tool for sparking conversations about stress, overachievement, and mental health. While the story is centered on chess, its messages can apply to any highly competitive environment, whether it’s sports, academics, or other extracurricular activities.
A Good Fit for Specific Readers
This book is likely to appeal to students who enjoy chess or other strategic, competitive activities. It may also resonate with “outcasts” or quieter students who see themselves in Daniel’s journey. However, its serious tone and intense subject matter may not engage every reader, and some scenes, such as those addressing mental health struggles, may require careful navigation in a classroom setting.
Classroom Use and Recommendations
I recommend Grandmaster as a read-aloud for middle school classrooms (grades 6-8). Reading it together allows educators to address sensitive scenes as they arise and guide discussions about the book’s heavier themes. The novel’s focus on relationships and self-discovery makes it a good fit for literature circles or lessons on character development.
Final Thoughts
While Grandmaster isn’t for everyone, it’s a thoughtful and well-crafted story that will appeal to specific students, especially those interested in chess or stories about overcoming personal challenges. Overall, it earns a 3.5/5 from me.