(Un)arranged Marriage

Bali Rai's "(Un)arranged Marriage" tells the powerful story of Manjit, or Manny, a British-Punjabi Sikh teenager living in Leicester, England. At thirteen, Manny learns his parents expect him to have an arranged marriage at seventeen, just like his older brothers. However, Manny harbors dreams of becoming a footballer, pop star, or author, and he fiercely resists the traditional path laid out for him. The narrative explores the intense cultural conflict between Manny's desire for independence and his family's strict expectations, culminating in a dramatic escape from India and a painful decision to break free from his family's control. This book is ideal for readers aged 10-14, offering a poignant look at identity, rebellion, and the courage to choose one's own destiny, even at great personal cost.

When Manjit turned 13, his father told him he'll be getting married at seventeen, just like his two older brothers. But Manny, as he likes to be called, has other ideas about his future. He does not see himself with a wife and kids, working in a factory, being a good Punjabi, which is what his family expect of him. The trouble is, he can't maintain links with his family if he lives his own life. It's one or the other. Which will he choose? Suggested level: secondary.