David and Hassan are second generation immigrants living in London. They both struggle for a sense of identity and belonging. Islamaphobia, life lived largely online, the rise of the far right, and trying to please your parents are all themes in this timely novel. A bleak read - but still a compelling page turner.
He passes them, focusing on the second underpass: close, close, close. As he enters it, the square hardens with the slap of trainers on concrete, making him jittery, but he resists the temptation to turn. 'Watch this', Ibrahim shouts. 'CR7!' Following a thump and a swoosh, David experiences a shock on his back, and tumbles over, backpack clanging. The ball bounces away.
