Information
Goodreads: A Game of Noctis
Series: None
Age Category: Middle Grade
Source: Library
Published: 2024
Summary
The Great Game determines life in the city of Dantessa and a player's standing can mean wealth and opportunity--or expulsion to the Pawn Isles. Pia Paro has always believed that following the rules would lead to reward, but when the Great Game takes her grandfather, her worldview starts to crumble. To have a chance of reuniting with him, she joins the greatest game of all--Noctis. But what if the Game is rigged? What if the Game itself needs to change?
Review
A Game of Noctis mixes the joy of games with a more serious exploration of the inequities of society. Pia Paro has always believed that following the rules of the Great Game that governs Dantessa will give anyone a chance at winning. However, when her grandfather loses a game not because of lack of skill but because of a lack of money, her worldview begins to crumble. And once she joins the greatest game of all, Noctis, she begins to see how the teams with money can buy advantages others cannot. Readers will cheer Pia on as they wish her success in her game--but also as they watch her grow in understanding and courage.
Books about games and puzzles always delight me, so I was excited to find a middle grade fantasy where an entire society is built upon games. Winning provides players currency--and the means to survive. But losing means players experience a reduction in their rank, and can ultimately become pawns, sentenced to menial labor or even shipped off to the Pawn Isles. Those in charge of the games argue that the system is fair because anyone can win and thus anyone can improve their lives. Readers soon realize, however, that this argument is a little too simplistic. Some people start with advantages others don't. Some just don't like to play games at all. And some have status and wealth from playing that they would do just about anything to keep--even if it means pushing other people down.
Pia is a relatable and sympathetic protagonist who navigates this strange world with an ease that marks her as an instant hero. Though living in a city where one must constantly be alert, athletic, and daring surely must take its toll on a person, Pia seems born for it. Even when facing Lady Death herself, Pia shows no fear and continues to think through the strategic implications of such a meeting. Her confidence and skill make her easy to root for. But, really, it is her heart that makes her truly inspiring.
A Game of Noctis will appeal to readers who enjoy middle grade fantasies with unique worlds, stories featuring puzzles and games, and teams of protagonists who must work together to overcome the odds. A solid and enjoyable story sure to delight readers young and old.
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