(UN)ARRANGED MARRIAGE

Choosing one’s own path in life is always difficult but imagine the pressures felt by Punjab teen Manjit, living in rural England and chafing at the expectations of an abusive father and a manipulative mother. Kish Sharma finds humor and pathos in Manny’s plight. He easily turns the street jive and ethnic phrases into his own, creating an empathetic character who, in the end, wins his freedom while losing a vital part of his past. Young adult readers may find Manny’s culture interesting and also may become more appreciative of supportive parents. R.O. © AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 04/ JAN 05]