Curiosity

Have you ever heard rumor of the great chess playing automaton “The Turk”? Well, the book Curiosity by Gary Blackwood is based around this mysterious automaton, and a young chess prodigy named Rufus. Rufus, who at first lives a life of pampered easiness, is eventually lead to the Turk, and his life changes in unexpected ways.

Throughout this story, Blackwood does an amazing job of leading the reader through Rufus’ story. In the beginning, the reader is immediately drawn into Rufus’ life, as we learn about his frailties and  amazing aptitude for chess. As the story develops, we come to understand the actions and motives behind his character. Rufus grows in the story and in the end learns that it is okay to question his circumstances. The secondary characters in this story are all strong, and  it is easy to understand the motivation behind the actions of each character. These secondary characters help develop the plot by changing Rufus’ life in some way.

Blackwood develops the conflict in a way that is not too overwhelming to the reader. We do get a sense early on, however, that events in the story will not always be cheery. This book deals with the, sometimes bleak, lives of the poor in early 1800’s America, and famous characters such as Edgar Allen Poe and P. T. Barnum make guest appearances. My only concern with this book is that its advanced plot may not hold the interest of some readers.  I would recommend this book to children in 6 – 8 grade.

Curiosity. By Gary Blackwood. Dial Books for Young Readers. 320 pages. $16.99
Recommended Reading Level: Grades 6-8
Rating: 4.25/5.0