This was an entertaining read all the way through. It’s about two boys and the games they play, but then so much more. Unlike a lot of books that focus on video games or game players, this one doesn’t focus as much on the game itself or even the boys for that matter. It instead gives an engaging scenario of how everything effects everything else.

At the start the two boys are already facing the other down in a battle to be the best. Despite their friendship, both seem willing to do almost anything to make sure they are the winner of their constant battles. I found myself picking sides early based on how fast the character personalities come to life. Then, as I read further, my alliances changed, then changed again.

Each time I felt I was onto something about the mystery of the game and the challenge it held the author made me rethink my assumptions. Quickly into the story it lets you in on the secret of the games focus “everyday life”. It’s what is learned from this and how the actions in the Game of Life effect not only the players, but those on the sidelines.

So parent or child, gamer or not, pick this one up for a read and enjoy. ( )

FROM ENTRADA BOOK REVIEWS

Josh is your normal, everyday twelve year old. He goes to school. He hangs out with his friends. He plays video games and enjoys spending time with his friend Alex. Well, most of the time he does. Josh and Alex are always so competitive that a day of fun ends in raised voices and hurt feelings. One day they decide to settle the score of who is the best at video games. A trip to the new local game store will determine the ultimate winner.

There they meet the Game Master and begin to play the ultimate game. The game is the hardest one they've ever played. It's all they can think about. But soon they start realizing things are not always as they seem. They are having the same dreams. Kids at school are acting differently. And it's not so easy to tell the difference between real life and the game.

The pace of the story works well to develop the story line and characters without rushing. As a reader, you can relate with these characters and you really want them to succeed. Written for younger readers, this book is based in the U.K. and does contain a few instances of the word "damn" - but which is considered innocuous and is not intended as defamatory. There is no real violence or sexual situations.

This funny and well written story keeps you reading until the end. Don't look too carefully or you may have realized you've learned something about yourself and others along the way. Although the story includes a morality tale, it does not detract from the story but enhances it. An excellent book for preteens about fun, life and relating to others.

"it is much easier to be nice than not…"

Entrada Book Reviews
http://www.entradapublishing.com/book_review/the_game_master.html ( )

I received this book in exchange for an honest review. A great story line and great character development make this an interesting book in theory and in production. The writer takes to kids who thrive to prove who the best gamer is. They agree about nothing and the only reason they do follow thru with the game store owner is because they refuse to admit defeat. What follows next is an eye opening experience for the young kids and everyone around them. Well written and easily enjoyed. ( )

Borrowed from friend enjoyed!! :-) ( )