Book Review

New Boy by Tracy Chevalier
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A short book which follows 11 year-olds as they cope with the arrival at their school of a new boy, Osei Kotate, a diplomat's son. Osei has been to several schools, in different cities, in his short life due to his father's occupation. He is used to the adjustment period, especially when he is the only black boy in the school. The story, a modern retelling of Othello, takes place in one day, from the morning playground, through class time, lunch, recess, and the end of the day. In this brief time, friendships are formed, jealousies are developed, and lies that result, change and damage everyone involved. Very well written and thought-provoking.


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