The Cardturner

Poor Alton. His summer has been turned upside-down. Not only has his girlfriend thrown seventeen-year-old Alton over for his best friend, but now his money-hungry parents have lassoed him into driving his old, wealthy and blind uncle to his bridge games. Alton must be his uncles cardturner, reading the cards to him at the outset of each game and playing each card. Not exactly big summer fun. Soon Alton begins to enjoy the game of bridge and his uncles company. Throw in a pretty girl who shares his interest in the game and a handful of family secrets, and Alton finds his hands full.

Sachar has crafted a YA novel that speaks to teens on a very human level. The scheming parents feel a bit exaggerated, even mercenary, but every other character rings true. Authentic relationships engage readers and draw them into the story. More than just about bridge, The Cardturner by Louis Sachar examines the bridges between humansold and young, rich and poor, expert and beginner.

The detailed explanations of bridge may confuse some readers, though Sachar does his best to explain either in sections of rule-based content (that he conveniently allows readers to skip over) or the appendix. However, the authors masterful storytelling does not depend solely on the game of bridge. Readers can enjoy the tale by glossing over the bridge content. Sachar recognizes the difficulties this book presents and explains as much in the authors note. Props to Sachar for writing what he loves, even when it presents a challenge. Solid storytelling by the renowned author of Holes , the Wayside School series and others.

Puzzle-loving and card-playing teens will enjoy this book.