Press

What the critics say

This epic tome packs some powerful political punches to which readers will undoubtedly respond. But Blackman never compromises the story, which is dramatic, moving and brave.
- Guardian

A stimulating and provocative plot line that often leaves the reader chilled to the bone... Noughts and Crosses is written with the passion of an author who has a personal, chilling vision of the past, present and future. Blackman cuts to the bone, turning the preconceived ideas of racial prejudice upside down, ensuring tht her point is well and truly made in a deeply disturbing and totally absorbing novel with a shocking climax that packs an unforgettable punch.
- Amazon.co.uk

A gritty read for older children... A times this is a beautiful love story; at other times it is a harrowing and moral tale. Narrating believably through the voices of two teenagers, Malorie Blackman has written an incredible novel that is as heart-rending as it is provocative. I had to read it all in one sitting, and I challenge any reader not to do the same
- Bookseller

A stimulating and emotionally satisfying novel, set in an alternate reality where racial stereotypes are turned upside down.
- Financial Times

'...a bruising tome and her most ambitious novel to date. An author who has worked hard not to be identified too closely with any particular genre, she has built a complex and challenging novel around an alternative version of apartheid.'
- The Scotsman

'This must be the most original book I've ever read. It's intelligent, emotional and imaginatively wicked. Noughts and Crosses is so well crafted that I insist on calling it a work of art.'
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'...a huge achievement - an absolutely gripping read, characters to really care about, a story to think about and a structure that makes it very accessible.'

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'With its powerful theme of racial injustice, Noughts and Crosses engages the reader at a greater depth and in a more demanding way than any of Blackman's previous work.'
- Books For Keeps

'...is an ambitious big novel about human rights, with a clever twist that keeps readers engrossed simply because - disturbingly - one finds it hard to come to terms with the premise that in this world the crosses, with their dark skin, are the dominant race.'
- Glasgow Sunday Herald

'A gripping, very thought-provoking story. . . . Readers are warned that some of the scenes are quite upsetting and shocking, but this gives the book an even more realistic feel.'
- LiteraTour

A feature about teenage fiction to coincide with the EIBF.
- The Big Issue in Scotland

A touching Romeo and Juliet-type story from one of our most prolific writers.
- New Nation

Short review
- Boox

'A tragic tale of star-crossed lovers and plenty to ponder.'
- Publishers Weekly (USA)

if you want a mind blowing book you'll find it here. Read these books and they will change your life forever.
- Reading Evening Post

As someone who belives in equality, I believe this book could convert those who think otherwise.
- Reform Magazine

Featured in an article titled 'Post Potter Picks'.
- The Western Mail Series

This modern love story has everything. It is one of the best stories I've ever read and you never know what is going to happen next.
- Books for Keeps

Inter-racial teenage love has never been more painful
- The Times

An inspired take on Romeo and Juliet, Blackman's absorbing but alarming novel deals with themes of racism and prejudice without ever coming across as didactic. Unforgettable.
- The Independent

This is one of my all time favourite books
- Newcastle Upon Tyne Evening Chronicle

Meaningful, memorable and very thought-provoking
- Through The Looking Glass Review

This is probably the best book I've ever read...This is the best book that Malorie Blackman has ever written and the story never quite leaves the mind.
- The Guardian

...this book is outstanding...at times heartbreaking. The ending is powerful, beautiful and devastating and I cried like a baby.
- Book Chick City

Noughts and Crosses is possibly one of the best books I have ever read...Truly, this book is excellent.
- 3 Evil Cousins