As a prominent figure in British literature, Malorie Blackman has left an indelible mark on the literary world. Her young adult novel, Noughts & Crosses, has become a cultural phenomenon since its publication 25 years ago. The book's exploration of racism, power, and social inequality continues to resonate with readers today. In an interview with The Guardian, Blackman shares her thoughts on the book's enduring relevance and the challenges she faced in her writing career.
Blackman's journey as a writer began with a passion for storytelling, which was nurtured by her local library. Despite facing financial instability and homelessness during her childhood, she found solace in books. Her experiences have undoubtedly shaped her writing, particularly in Noughts & Crosses, which tackles racism head-on. The book's alternative Britain, where African colonizers hold power and white citizens are marginalized, serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the societal issues of our time.
The series has expanded to include nine books, with the first installment appearing in the BBC's Big Read poll of the nation's favorite novels. Blackman's work has been widely acclaimed, with fans including celebrated writers and artists such as Caleb Azumah Nelson, Benjamin Zephaniah, and Candice Carty-Williams. The music scene has also taken notice, with Stormzy and Tinie Tempah name-checking her in their songs.
Early Life and Career
Blackman's early life was marked by financial instability and homelessness. However, her love for reading and writing remained a constant source of comfort. She began her career in computing, earning a good income, but eventually turned to writing as a way to express herself creatively. After 82 rejection letters, her first book, Not So Stupid!, was finally published in 1990.
Blackman's experiences as a writer have not been without challenges. She faced criticism for not writing explicitly about race in her early work and was later labeled an "issues writer" after publishing Noughts & Crosses. Despite these obstacles, she has continued to produce thought-provoking and engaging literature, including Pig-Heart Boy, Hacker, and Boys Don't Cry.
The Publishing Industry and Diversity
The publishing industry has undergone significant changes since Blackman's early days as a writer. While there has been an increase in books by writers of color, the industry still faces challenges in terms of diversity and representation. Blackman, who was appointed children's laureate in 2013, used her platform to call for greater diversity in children's publishing. However, she faced backlash and death threats, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by writers who tackle sensitive topics.
Recent research has shown that the surge in interest in books by writers of color after 2020 has been short-lived, with a "catastrophic decline" in children's titles featuring Black protagonists. Blackman believes that the industry must be more proactive in promoting diversity and inclusivity, rather than simply reacting to trends.
Legacy and Impact
Noughts & Crosses has had a profound impact on young readers, with many crediting the book with helping them understand and address issues of racism and social inequality. The book's 25th-anniversary edition, featuring a foreword by Stormzy, serves as a testament to its enduring relevance. Blackman's legacy extends beyond her writing, with her advocacy for reading and literacy inspiring a new generation of writers and readers.
As an ambassador for the UK's National Year of Reading, Blackman speaks with passion about the power of books to change lives. Her own love for reading has led her to amass a collection of over 15,000 books, with many more in audiobook format. Blackman's story serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance, creativity, and empathy in the face of adversity.
Noughts & Crosses: 25th Anniversary Special Edition with a foreword by Stormzy is published by Penguin on 19 March. To support The Guardian, order your copy at guardianbookshop.com. Delivery charges may apply.
