Gabriel'S Gift

The protagonist of Hanif Kureishi's new novel is a fifteen-year-old North London schoolboy called Gabriel, who is forced to come to terms with a new life after the equilibrium of his family home has been shattered by the ousting of his father. Trying to fend for himself, as well as providing emotional support to his confused (and confusing) parents, Gabriel is forced to grow up quickly. The only support he can draw upon is from his remembered twin brother, Archie; and from his own 'gift', which is accompanied by sensations that urge him into areas of life requiring the utmost courage and faith. A chance visit to 70s rock star Lester Jones crystallizes the turbulent emotions inside Gabriel and helps him to recognize and engage with his gift. Hanif Kureishi has written a tender, witty and moving meditation on the power of the imagination to enrich our lives.