Concrete Chips - Softcover

Bali Rai was working in a bar in Leicester while he wrote his first novel, Unarranged Marriage, which went on to receive great critical acclaim and three awards after Random House published it. RH went on to commission two more books from him and he has since gone from strength to strength. His second teen novel The Crew, published in 2003, and his follow up, Rani and Sukh is due to be published in 2004! His authentic voice, accessible writing style and subtle deadpan humour give his books a real credibility. Combine that with a keen observance of dialogue between kids - from every racial group and you have a winning contemporary author who tells it like it is for pre-teens and teenagers. Bali's stories are based on his own experience of growing up with many racial groups and hanging out with asian, West Indian and white friends at school. His is a true 21st century voice in children's books.

When five young British teens learn they have the last lunch period at school, they hatch a plan to avoid "concrete chips" and cold food. Narrator Clare Corbett lends authenticity and youthful spirit to this clever group, bringing their personalities and diverse backgrounds into school life and problem-solving. When the students realize all they need to do is join clubs to leave class early and get fresh food, they plan to outsmart their teachers for the rest of the year. Corbett makes listeners forget she's one woman as she creates eccentric teachers, unique kids, and realistic situations. An interesting look at a contemporary British school. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine