Blitzers

Danny’s older brother, Jay, first gave him a Blitzer and started the whole adventure. For those who remember them, Blitzers are similar to Tamagotchis which were the first generation of virtual pets. They encouraged the users to care for their pet. In Chisholm’s novel, players are required to train their Blitzer to fight other Blitzers and win. Violence is key.

Danny’s Blitzer is an anomaly. It doesn’t like to fight and runs away if attacked. At first, Danny is dismayed by this, then he discovers that there is more to the Blitzer’s game than is at first apparent. What is the company behind Blitzers trying to do and can Danny and the company’s CEO’s daughter prevent it?

This book is an enjoyable fast-paced read. The issues covered are quite wide-ranging despite its short length, the main one being to what length will companies and armies go to persuade citizens to do what they want? It could be read as a political allegory.

All young gamers will enjoy this book because their world is central to the narrative. Ficorilli’s illustrations would have been even more enjoyable and game-like had they been in colour.