Orangeboy

16-year-old Marlon is flattered when Sonya invites him on a date to the fair. However, when the evening ends in tragedy, he is dragged reluctantly into the gang world that his brother inhabited before he had a devastating car accident. Faced with almost impossible choices, Marlon has to grow up fast while working out how to survive in a gang culture he doesn't want to be a part of.

Orange Boy is a novel for older teenagers as it explores the hopeless and ruthless realities of gang life. The story may come as a shock to some readers who may be unaware how such gangs operate. The book ends with some suggestions for discussion or further research into the issues raised by the story.

448 pages / Reviewed by Stef A

Suggested Reading Age 14+

Marlon is determined to make a success of his life and make his mother proud. He could see the impact that gang life had on his family following his brother's involvement as a gang leader on the estate and is determined not to go down the same path. That all changes when he gets a knock on his door and is asked out on his first date with Sonya. His head is turned and it seems that he will do anything to please her. However, the date ends in tragedy and Marlon's life quickly unravels.

This book has great teen appeal. Be prepared to read it in one sitting as you will not want to put this book down!

448 pages / Reviewed by Clair Bossons, school librarian

Suggested Reading Age 14+