Checkmate

In the second installment of the CRUISERS series by Walter Dean Myers, the story delves into the competitive world of chess through the eyes of middle school misfits. The narrative follows Sidney Aronofsky, an exceptional young chess player, whose unexpected arrest for attempting to buy drugs complicates his passion for the game amid external pressures from parents and schools. As Sidney navigates the challenges of fame and expectation, Zander and his friends return, utilizing the Cruiser school newspaper to voice their experiences and emotions.