Set in England, this is the compelling story of Chris and Imran, best friends who grow apart as they leave childhood behind. Chris becomes a soldier and is dispatched to Afghanistan's Helmand Province, where he loses a leg after stepping on an explosive device. Imran, whose family originally came to England from Pakistan, becomes radicalized and joins what may be a terrorist cell. The story, told from the boys' respective points of view, moves backward and forward in time as readers watch the two grow up and finally arrive at a day when Chris is to be decorated in a military ceremony. Gibbons' ambitious, suspenseful novel artfully and dramatically examines both sides of the political turmoil and xenophobia that erupted in England in the wake of 9/11. Chris and Imran are both fully realized, multidimensional characters about whom readers will care as the young men's lives are threatened by war and terrorism.

Gr 8 Up-Mates Chris and Imran have been inseparable since childhood. But as they approach adolescence, their friendship is strained by escalating discord in their community between the peaceful Muslim population and right-wing activists who try to antagonize them. Imran is the victim of subtle and overt acts of racism, some of which Chris is oblivious to. Over time, Imran develops a bitter anger related to the worldwide mistreatment of Muslims and eventually becomes involved with extremists. Meanwhile, Chris has drifted away from Imran; he joins the army and finds himself fighting in Afghanistan. Eventually, facing a bomb that is scheduled to be detonated at a ceremony recognizing returned veterans, both boys must look inward and recover some trust in each other in order to make a decision that could potentially save lives. The non-linear plot of this novel is well developed and successfully builds momentum. Chapters switch between alternating viewpoints, offering readers a balanced understanding of each protagonist. Characters are skillfully constructed; the protagonists are realistic and likable, with relatable motivations and concerns. The complexities of racial tension are sensitively exploredparticularly the various groups' differing responses: elders in this Muslim community preach tolerance and understanding whereas the sons become increasingly indignant about the injustices. This will certainly provoke conversation about friendship, war, and how societies should deal with prejudice. This book will also serve as an excellent curriculum tie-in for units on recent history and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Julie Hanson, Chicago Public Library