The Speed of Falling Objects

You might reach for this book when your child is grappling with the burden of high expectations or the feeling of being different from their peers due to a specialized talent. It offers a window into the life of Bobby Fischer, a chess prodigy who rose from a humble Brooklyn background to become a global icon during the Cold War. While it celebrates his incredible strategic mind and perseverance, the story also touches on the loneliness and intense pressure that can accompany genius. It is a compelling choice for middle schoolers to explore how dedication and passion can lead to greatness, while also sparking conversations about the importance of balance and mental well-being in the face of public scrutiny.