'Smashed' by Mandy Hager

A stunning novel of not just teenage issues but issues of the human condition. Are we guided by our genes or does free will have a stronger part to play?

Toby is a super bright Asian boy with a Chinese father and an red haired Irish mother. His sister Rita takes after the mother and Toby after his father, in physical characteristics at least. Toby has two wayward friends, Carl and Don, who he trusts, even though their interests and wild ways, are not his. A party in which alcohol and drugs cause mayhem, is attended by Toby, Rita, Don and Carl, that blows the roof off all of their lives.

The story is told with such passion and humour that it is difficult to put down. The action and dialogue between characters is realistic and the philosophical slant on all the action is told in first person by Toby. There is much to discuss in this novel about teenage issues of drugs, friendship, family relations, the law and sex. Don't miss this one it will blow your mind. Suitable for secondary school students.

Published by Random House

Reviewed by Bob