Noughts And Crosses - Malorie Blackman

I was advised by my English teacher to get the book 'Noughts and Crosses, by Malorie Blackman'. After reading the short World Book Day book she gave me, entitled 'Eye for an eye', I couldn't resist and so bought this book.

I began reading immediately, and, to the dismay of my popular computing / internet magazines, Noughts and Crosses somewhat over-ruled my bedtime reading! It was incredibly gripping, and I just couldn't put it down!

After the initial prologue, the main part of the story is told from the perspectives of both Sephy and Callum in an alternating fashion. This is interesting, as it gives perspectives not just from the narrator, but from the people themselves - both Sephy and Callum.

The central topic is racism. As one can see from the colours and layout of the book's cover, the story is a fierce ongoing struggle between two groups of people - the noughts, and the crosses. I feel it's better not to tell you which colour is which just yet. I didn't know from the start, and when I found out, quite a way into the story actually, I was shocked. My whole images of the characters had to be changed, and for me, this was an amazing twist to the story. So I'm not going to spoil it for you!

Sephy and Callum are opposites - i.e. one's a cross, one's a nought. Initially, things are fine between the families. Sephy and Callum have a wonderful strong relationship from the start, and they see that skin colour means nothing when love is involved.

The story covers quite a long timescale, showing Sephy and Callum first experiencing intimate relationships, then going on to developing stronger identities - race-related identities. Their love grows and grows, and even though Callum turns into a criminal for the purpose of his race, the love is without a doubt still there.

There's not much more I can say without ruining the story; just to reiterate the fact that this story will grab you from the start. It is suitable for young adults - perhaps 13+. It's a great read for adults too though. You will be gripped from the start just as much as I was. I'd say it isn't best suited to people of a nervous disposition or anyone under the age of 13. The story depicts occasional violence which some may disapprove of.

The book is about 440 pages in length, average text size. You won't feel it's too long though; once you start you will not want to stop!

The book has received much high praise, and there's not a person I know that didn't like it. Everyone who has commented on the book has commented in a positive way, and I recommend this book for sure.

The ending is a cliff-hanger, so be prepared to pay for the next sequel, that is 'Knife Edge'. I haven't yet read this book - I am waiting for the paperback version.

So, I advise you buy this book, especially if you like a bit of drama, adventure with many twists and topical issues that still, unfortunately, remain issues today.

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Benjamin Riches (wbafcben)
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