This is an important book, tackling racism and justice with white people labelled ‘Noughts’ and black people labelled ‘Crosses’.

The Crosses are important. They get proper education and job opportunities, unlike the Noughts, who must leave school at the age of 14 for a menial job, or perhaps (if they’re clever enough) complete their education with all the teachers and students prejudiced against them, as they’re the minority in all institutions.

Sephy and Callum are different. She’s a Cross and he’s a Nought, but they’re best friends and gradually falling in love. However, Callum eventually has to choose between his family and Sephy.

Callum goes through some really tough times, but Sephy’s always there trying to help make everything right (and getting it wrong!) Sephy’s a great friend to Callum as she tries to support him all the time.

I loved this book because there’s a strong message that doesn’t overpower the plot. The plot is about the message and vice versa.

I recommend this book to anyone about 12+ as it’s unsuitable for under 9s and I think that it’d be confusing for 9-12 year olds.

Malorie Blackman is a wonderful author and I will definitely finish this series and then probably read more of her books.