February 22, 2025

I'm not sure I'd recommend this book to someone who (like me) expected something typical in the psychological/traitor game genre. You know, interesting rules, smart thinking, intrigue and/or lots of feelings. You'll find pretty much none of that here. The characters are normal kids, not genius detective prodigies. And yes, it's a death game, but since it's written for kids, desperation levels will be rather low at almost all times despite the extremely high stakes.

Instead, what you will get is an enjoyable mystery with a dash of action. A few of the characters are fun, and while the plot is a bit thin at times I was rarely bored and pretty much always wanted to continue reading to see where it goes.

I think this book is a fantastic choice for reading with others. For a rather low-level children's book, it has a surprising amount of potential for making theories and discussing your thoughts with others.

I don't have to read the sequel immediately, but I'm sure I will at some point. Personally I'm hoping for something a bit more traitor-gamey, but if not I will treat it just as I should've treated this book: As a mystery.

Gradings:7
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on April 17, 2025
Legato graded
on February 22, 2025
easier thanキノの旅 1L31
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on February 22, 2025
harder than夜カフェ 1L22
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on February 22, 2025
easier thanコンビニ人間L30
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on February 22, 2025