Exposure by Mal Peet

I have often been told that Mal Peet is an excellent author but have not got around to reading any of his books. After reading Exposure I am a new fan. It is his third Paul Faustino novel with soccer as a main theme but the storyline does not relate to his previous novels Keeper or The Penalty. Set in South America. Otello is black and South America's top footballer, and Desmerelda is the beautiful, white pop-star daughter of a right-wing politician (note the Shakespeare's Othello reference). This story is full of excitement and drama; the celebrity couple lead an enviable life but struggle with the avaricious media. There is the politics of premier league football and the corruption within government and the police force, with the plight of homeless street children thrown in. This book reads like a quality TV drama. It is fast-paced and edgy, and has a very contemporary feel. Suitable for senior high school readers, Exposure will give teens an insight into the power of the media to create and destroy people, and the not-so-glamorous reality of celebrity. I loved it and I don't even like soccer. I am now keen to read Mal Peet's other work.