The Curious Incident ... is a book about Christopher Boone, a fifteen year-old with a form of autism. He is academically very able, but has difficulty interacting with others. He sets out to find the killer of Wellington, a poodle belonging to a woman who lives on his street. As the story unfolds, Christopher discovers more about himself and his world.

I found the book to be absorbing from the outset. The plot kept me gripped and the narration was realistic. I felt that the layout was very accessible, and that this story had a stable framework.

However, I have certain doubts as to whether or not the book should be in the Carnegie shortlist, since it is not really a book for children. The amount of swearing, while realistic, is unnecessarily high for a book which may appeal to a younger audience. The book has pictures and a ‘detective’ feel to it which, in my opinion, could be misleading.

As a novel, the book was outstanding because it portrayed difficult issues without a screen. The prejudice, the difficulties and the heartbreaks of life came across very strongly. However, I cannot say that I felt happier after reading it. The Curious Incident ... is not, in my opinion, a book for the faint-hearted; having said this, once you get over the shocks involved (from the narrator’s viewpoint) then the book is a great way to spend a few hours.

Overall, I think that the book should win the Carnegie medal 2004. It is more readable and interesting than almost any other book which I have read. The verdict: 9½ out of 10.

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