Giles, Chrystal D. Not an Easy Win. Random House, 2023. 978-0-593-17521-7, 256 p. $13.99. Grades 4-6.
Lawrence’s family moves from Charlotte to Larenville, North Carolina to help out his granny. In school, he always seems to get in trouble and after too many fights gets expelled. While being expelled, he starts helping out his neighbor, Mr. Dennis at the rec center. A big part of the rec center program is playing chess. Lawrence starts watching the other kids compete against one another and wants to learn how to play chess. A chess tournament is being held, and Lawrence wants to earn a spot on the team to go. Through ups and downs, Lawrence learns how hard work pays off and can be proud of who he is.
THOUGHTS: This was an excellent read. Lawrence may not have had the best life, but by changing his outlook he can persevere and thrive. He struggles with the change of moving and starting a new school, where there are few African Americans. He is a target for bullies and being picked on because he is different. This is a coming of age story, dealing with crushes, discrimination, and competitiveness. This was a wonderful story that I think everyone should read.
Realistic Fiction
Lawrence’s move from Charlotte to the country town of Larenville, North Carolina is the beginning of his bad luck. His father left the family; he was expelled from school for fighting too much; and his granny, who has taken in his family, does not seem happy to have him in the house. After his expulsion, his granny tells him he must find something to keep himself busy. Lawrence starts spending his day at the local rec center, run by granny’s neighbor, Mr. Dennis. He really likes all the kids at the rec center with the exception of Deuce, who seems to have it out for him. Most of the kids his age enjoy playing chess, and many are competing for the chance to go to the Charlotte Classic Chess Tournament. Suddenly, Lawrence wants to learn all about chess and win a spot in that tournament. With Mr. Dennis as his coach, he begins to learn how to think through the moves. The only problem is that he has to practice with Deuce who is determined to fight him and get Lawrence kicked out of the rec center. As he navigates his new life in Larenville, Lawrence learns more about family, friendship, and forgiveness than he ever thought possible, and he begins to understand how chess can be a metaphor for life.
THOUGHTS: Chrystal D. Giles, author of Take Back the Block, has written a touching story reminiscent of her own childhood. The story is relatable, especially to students who may deal with cultural tensions between generations living under the same roof. She tackles difficult topics such as racism in school and the impact of having an incarcerated parent with sensitivity. This is a must-buy for middle grade libraries.
Realistic Fiction