While acknowledging the significance of themes and mental dynamics in a novel, Kotzwinkle has remarked that "a novel must suppress that process in favor of action and feeling." His experience in film has honed his ability to craft a classic storyline that gallops swiftly toward its climax, resolving the tensions that propel the tale. A vivid tapestry of lively dialogue, an expert control of tone to encapsulate a character's emotions, and a poetic flair for description all coalesce to create a captivating read. Yet, what truly sets The Game of Thirty apart is Kotzwinkle's masterful fusion of mystery conventions, the rich tapestry of ancient Egyptian lore, and his evocative depiction of New York City, weaving past and present into the very fabric of the book.

The allure of the detective novel often lies in its presentation of a resolvable enigma within a world where nearly every query finds an answer for the seeker of truth. While acknowledging the absurdity prevalent in modern society, McShane adheres to core principles that closely align the reader with his pursuit of justice. The novel's framework unfolds meticulously: data emerges, clues are unearthed, complications and diversions arise, gradually leading to comprehension, and finally, a striking revelation that clarifies all (within reason) and charts a hopeful path forward. Kotzwinkle cleverly enriches the detective genre by featuring a meticulous and perceptive female partner, transforming the informant into a tech enthusiast, introducing an array of high-tech gadgets, and contemplating the "prison of data erected around everyone in the name of law enforcement." Simultaneously, he adheres to the classic detective novel formulas by granting McShane a reliable ally within the NYPD, showcasing the seedy "characters" as his typical clientele, and allowing McShane to evade dangers with cunning and strength.

Detective stories often rely on the author's expertise in a particular domain, and Kotzwinkle draws from Egyptology as both a catalyst for the unfolding murder mystery and a narrative framework. The "Game of Thirty" in the title offers "squares we land on (which) correspond to what's happening to us at the moment." This parallel between current events and ancient Egyptian history bestows a universal quality upon the narrative. As the investigation unfurls across Manhattan, the city itself becomes more than a backdrop; it transforms into a character whose moods and iconic architecture influence the psyche of its inhabitants, as if the historical echoes of a neighborhood cast an enduring spell over all who dwell there.

A Literary Convergence: Bridging Audiences

William Kotzwinkle has skillfully navigated the literary seas, crafting narratives that appeal to both the seasoned reader and the youthful dreamer. He remarked on the modern tendency to categorize "children's books," suggesting that it may not be the most beneficial trend. His widely loved adaptation of E.T. (1982) sought to resonate with both adults and youngsters, aiming to convey a universal archetype pivotal to humanity's collective awakening. Similarly, The Game of Thirty, though tailored for grown-ups, intertwines Kotzwinkle's exploration of malevolence with his profound appreciation for "this fleeting thing, the child's mind."

Echoes of History in Kotzwinkle's Narrative

Reflecting on The Exile (1987), Kotzwinkle noted that "Nazi Germany has infiltrated the psyche everywhere." This theme reverberates in The Game of Thirty, propelling the story into the twilight of the twentieth century. Here, Kotzwinkle unravels the devastating impact of immoral acts on a child's life, an aspect of humanity he holds dear. The intricate tapestry of this novel is woven with a murder mystery, driven by the astute detective Jimmy McShane. As the layers of the enigma unfold, a chilling motive of unchecked self-indulgence emerges.

Kotzwinkle delves into the...