The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas (Walker Books paperback 7.99)

This is a fantastic book aimed at teenagers but suitable for adults too. Sixteen-year-old black teenager Starr Carter lives a double life, one at home in a poor neighbourhood and another at a posh white High School where she is one of a handful of black pupils. After fleeing from gunshots at a party in Garden Heights, Starr is lead to apparent safety after being given a lift by her childhood friend Khalil. The car is then pulled over by a white police officer and Khalil is shot dead while unarmed. As the only witness, Starr finds herself thrown into the media spotlight, having to come to terms with the racial complexities of modern America and the many demands and expectations thrust on her by extended family and friends. This is a highly topical book, getting right to the heart of the Black Lives Matter movement. We are introduced to a wide spectrum of well-rounded characters, the plot develops with many a twist, and there are some real laugh-out-loud moments too. The authentic first-person teenage voice is really the making of this novel however and teenagers will enjoy spending time with Starr. I thoroughly recommend this book: it doesn’t shirk from big subject matters, while also offering a message of hope. It has deservedly been included on this year’s CLIP Carnegie Medal shortlist. Read it before the film comes out in 2018.

Review by Little Apple's Tim Curtis