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  • Published: 1 August 2006
  • ISBN: 9780552553018
  • Imprint: Corgi Childrens
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 272
  • RRP: $29.99

The Last Taboo




A hard-hitting novel about two teenagers facing up to the consequences of racial prejudice between asian and black communities, from award-winning author Bali Rai.

Simran likes Tyrone from the moment she spots him in the crowd. He's gorgeous and he won't take no for an answer. There's just one problem. . . Tyrone is black and Simran's not sure how her family will react. Even though her parents were a 'love match' and married each other against the wishes of their families, Simran doesn't think they will approve of her having a black boyfriend, and her nightmare uncles and aunts certainly won't. Like her cousin Ruby says, it's the last taboo.

But Simran likes Tyrone too much to walk away, so they face the problems their relationship causes together. But it becomes harder than either of them predicted and when the hatred they encounter escalates into violence, with families and friends turning against each other, Simran and Tyrone are forced to question whether they are strong enough to fight for what they believe in.

  • Published: 1 August 2006
  • ISBN: 9780552553018
  • Imprint: Corgi Childrens
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 272
  • RRP: $29.99

About the author

Bali Rai

Bali Rai's first novel for young adults, (un)arranged marriage, created a huge amount of interest and won many awards, including the Angus Book Award and the Leicester Book of the Year. It was also shortlisted for the prestigious Branford Boase first novel award. Rani and Sukh and The Whisper were both shortlisted for the Booktrust Teenage Prize. Bali is also the author of the hugely popular Soccer Squad series for younger readers.
Bali was born in Leicester where he still lives, writing full-time and visiting schools to talk about his books. You can visit him at www.balirai.co.uk

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Praise for The Last Taboo

A powerful depiction of family history, cultural prejudice and gang culture . . . Hard-hitting

Lesley Agnew, The Bookseller

Engrossing, funny and savage by turns. The lively dialogyue and the clever use of different perspectives place the novel in a very broad context and the climax is terrifying

The School Librarian

Bali Rai deals with important and controversial issues not because it is fashionable to do so but because he is compelled to. Long may he continue!

Jean Allen, Carousel

This is brave and committed writing, not always subtle but passionate; it deserves a large audience

Nicholas Tucker, TES