Author: Alex Wheatle
publisher name: Fourth Estate
ISBN: 9780007225620
Title: East of Acre Lane
Description: "East of Acre Lane" by Alex Wheatle is a fast-paced and razor-sharp novel that tells the story of a young man striving to do the right thing in a society on the brink of explosion. Set in 1981, the year of the Brixton riots, the novel introduces readers to Biscuit and his posse, offering a gripping thriller that captures the tension and challenges faced by the community during a volatile period.
Biscuit, the central character, navigates life with his family and becomes entangled in the world of hustling for the south London badman, Nunchaks. While Biscuit doesn't envision a future in this dangerous lifestyle, breaking free from the trap proves to be a daunting challenge. As the community's patience wears thin and riots loom on the horizon, Biscuit is faced with a choice that could alter the course of his life forever.
"East of Acre Lane" establishes Alex Wheatle as a compelling voice in the commentary on contemporary black culture. The novel was first published in 2001 and garnered widespread acclaim for its portrayal of urban experiences. The BBC has even optioned the novel for a film adaptation.
