Kyla Zhao Releases New Children’s Book "May the Best Player Win"
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Loading... - Katashi Ichikawa
- 15 Oct 2024
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Sports psychologists often emphasize that the best performances come when athletes play with ease—but staying calm isn’t easy when you desperately want to win. This is the challenge faced by May Li, the young protagonist of Kyla Zhao’s newly released children’s book, May the Best Player Win.
The book, which has already garnered glowing reviews, tells the story of May Li, a talented chess player, as she navigates the complexities of competition and self-imposed pressure. In a recent interview with ChessBase, Zhao shared insights about the themes of her book, her passion for chess, and her thoughts on gender equality within the sport.
Plot Overview
At the start of the story, May Li’s life seems perfect—she’s excelling in chess, has a great relationship with her best friend Rebecca, and feels supported by her parents. However, her chess successes stir envy within her peer group, especially from Ralph, a fellow member of her chess club. Determined to prove herself, May challenges Ralph to a competition: the winner will lead their school’s team at the upcoming National Championships.
As the pressure mounts, May finds herself caught in a spiral—her desire to win strains her friendship with Rebecca, creates tension with her parents, and saps the joy she once felt for chess. Instead of playing for the love of the game, she becomes consumed by the need to succeed. The story explores whether May can rediscover her passion and overcome the mental hurdles that threaten to derail her goals, all while grappling with the added challenge of proving herself in a male-dominated sport.
Beyond a Children’s Story
While May the Best Player Win appears on the surface to be a lighthearted children’s book, it addresses deeper themes that resonate with readers of all ages. It delves into the pressure to perform, a struggle familiar to many—whether in academics, sports, or personal pursuits. The book also touches on the challenge of balancing passion with friendships, family obligations, and self-worth.
Importantly, the story poses questions about gender dynamics: How does it feel to compete as a girl in a space where others may doubt your abilities? Can ambition be embraced unapologetically, or do societal expectations impose limits? May must confront these questions as she battles not just Ralph, but also the stereotypes and doubts that come with being a girl in chess.
A Lighthearted Approach to Serious Themes
Kyla Zhao skillfully tackles these topics with humor and wit, creating an engaging and enjoyable read. Even readers unfamiliar with chess will appreciate the playful tone, while chess enthusiasts will enjoy the authentic use of chess terminology throughout the narrative.
Zhao’s ability to weave thought-provoking themes with a light, refreshing style makes the book a standout. While it avoids heavy subjects like violence, addiction, or serious conflict, it subtly explores the emotional challenges of growing up, making it relatable to a wide audience.
Zhao has become a prominent voice in both literature and media. Her work has been featured by outlets such as NBC, Vogue, and Buzzfeed, and she was named to Forbes' 30 Under 30 list. She began writing early in life, with her first articles appearing in magazines like Vogue Singapore and Harper’s Bazaar at just 16 years old.
With May the Best Player Win, Kyla Zhao offers readers a story that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking, reminding us that the journey is just as important as the destination—whether in chess or life.
