For Jamal and Hameem, The Game starts out as a fun and daring contest between the two young boys to see who can collect more items belonging to the 'enemy'--the French soldiers who are keeping Morocco from gaining its independence. For a Muslim to be seen with anything belonging to the infidels is among the most punishable of sins, but the excitement of The Game calls to the adventurous boys, who even risk swiping belongings right off of the French soldiers.
The Game becomes more risky when Jamal begins collecting pictures from the Christian missionary Maude Cary, whom he meets in the marketplace. Surely a whole set of the pictures must be worth enough points to win The Game! Then Jamal realizes that each picture tells a story about Jesus, and he's torn between believing the missionary's stories and believing the Muslim way. When a French traitor comes to Jamal for help, will he lead Jamal to the Truth? 151 pages, softcover from Bethany. Recommended for ages 8 to 12.
