Set in India, this novel is crafted in a very unique style, and opens eyes to the poverty and disparity found in the world’s largest democracy. The story follows a boy who has been accused of cheating after winning a record amount on a game show, and each chapter examines how the boy knew the answer to each of the increasingly difficult questions.
This style is quite unique, but creates a storyline that can jump around at times, and may have hurt the novel overall in terms of plot and character development. Still, the trivia challenge nature of the chapters helps to build and develop a picture of the main character’s life, and exposes us to the incredible experiences and challenges that everyday life holds in Indian society.
Recommended for any grade university level, and grade 11 and 12 college level students. Some concern for violence.
3 lifelines out of 5.
