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Checkmate
Checkmate
Nov 18, 2024 7:43 AM

Author:Malorie Blackman

Checkmate

'The Noughts & Crosses series are still my favourite books of all time and showed me just how amazing story-telling could be' STORMZY

'I grew up reading her. It was one of the few books about black people, so I felt seen.' CANDICE CARTY-WILLIAMS

'The most original book I've ever read' BENJAMIN ZEPHANIAH

"Malorie Blackman is absolutely amazing ... [Noughts & Crosses] really spoke to me, especially as a woman of dual heritage." ZAWE ASHTON

_____

My name is Callie Rose.

My mum is a Cross - one of the so-called ruling elite.

My dad was a Nought. My dad was a murderer. My dad was a terrorist.

These facts are the only things that are mine and real. So I don't mind so much that I'm leaving it all behind. There's nothing here worth holding onto.

Sixteen years have passed since Sephy Hadley first met Callum McGregor - and the hate that divided them turned to hope. But the world hasn't changed quickly enough for their daughter, Callie Rose.

Growing up dual heritage in a world where bitter prejudice divides Noughts and Crosses has meant she's an outsider wherever she turns.

Enter Jude McGregor. Jude teaches Callie about her real family history, and the more she learns the more he persuades her where her loyalties really lie.

But soon Callie is caught in a trap she can't get out of - one which will have deadly consequences.

Voted as one of the UK's best-loved books, Malorie Blackman's Noughts & Crosses series is a seminal piece of YA fiction; a true modern classic.

Reviews

Another emotional hard-hitter

—— The Sunday Times

Blackman's absorbing but alarming novel deals with themes of racism and prejudice...Unforgettable

—— Independent

Packs some powerful political punches...But Blackman never compromises the story, which is dramatic, moving and brave

—— Guardian

Stimulating and emotionally satisfying

—— Financial Times

A gritty read for older children . . . At times this is a beautiful love story; at other times it is a harrowing and moral tale...

—— Bookseller

Packs some powerful political punches...But Blackman never compromises the story, which is dramatic, moving and brave

—— Guardian

Inter-racial teenage love has never been more painful

—— Amanda Craig , The Times

A tender and compelling story about loving and belonging. Parsons masterfully takes us on a journey where the political is personal, where the most heartbreaking moments are also profound and beautiful. Ella is a character readers will care about, cry with, and cheer for. How High the Moon is a stunning debut that promises to have readers wanting more and more from Parsons

—— Renée Watson, author of Piecing Me Together

A stirring, emotionally resonant debut, How High the Moon opens a fresh and sensitive window on a terrifying time, even as it introduces us to a lovable new heroine

—— Tony Abbott, author of Firegirl and The Great Jeff
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