Cardturner by Louis Sachar

Reviewed by Lori
Cardturner
Title: Cardturner

Author: Louis Sachar

Perma-Bound Catalogue #: 43908

Description: When his wealthy uncle, a champion bridge player who has lost his vision, asks seventeen-year-old Alton to be a cardturner for him, Alton has no idea how much he will ultimately learn from his eccentric relative.  Includes appendix by Syd Fox with information about bridge.

Rubric Rating: Level 3 - Laud It

Why I Read It: I really enjoyed the novel Holes and this book is by the same author.

Lori's Notes: Alton's rich uncle, a champion bridge player, is blind and needs a cardturner for him to play.  A fantastic story about families and relationships, it weaves together the storylines of Alton and his uncle and first loves.  It does delve a little into the paranormal/ghostly but it wasn't distracting to the overall sense of the novel.  It also touches on the idea of how relationships change and change us.  I'm not a bridge player at all and had no idea how the game was played and this novel made me want to learn.  In fact, I almost felt like I might be able to play a hand or two!  A heart-warming story, not as good as Holes, but still a good read.

Recommended Readers: Grade 9 and Up.  Would be a good selection for boys as the main character is very relatable and there's a good amount of humour and teen angst.

Themes: Ghosts, Family Relationships, Generations, Bridge, Disabilities, Problem Solving.

Cross Genre Links: 
Websearch: Learn to Play Bridge
Movie: The Last Casino (2004)
Music: The Gambler performed by Kenny Rogers

Post Reading Discussion Questions and Activities: 

  • As a class try to learn how to play Bridge.  Create a bridge team.
  • Why is Alton chosen to be a Cardturner for his Uncle.
  • How is Alton changed by spending time with his Uncle.
  • Is Alton being possessed?  Is Toni?
  • Discuss how some of the rules of bridge might apply to everyday life.

Other Titles by Louis Sachar:




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