Bernard Beckett: Malcolm and Juliet

Beware, the latest novel by New Zealand author and teacher Bernard Beckett contains material that may be considered offensive (or unsuitable for young people) by some parents and educators. Malcolm and Juliet is a candid and funny look at the issues of teenage sex and sexuality (including homosexuality).

Sixteen-year-old Malcolm is determined to have the winning project in this year's National Science Competition. Last year he was runner-up because his project wasn't topical enough, so this year he decides to make a documentary about sex, and he persuades family and friends to reveal their "first time" stories to him and his video camera.

It is refreshing to read a gritty story about teenage angst where nobody dies or gets pregnant. This novel began as a script for a school drama performance and it would make a great movie.

Publisher: Longacre

Price: $16.99

Age: 14-plus yrs

Recommended by: Dorothy Vinicombe