Stay A Little Longer

Since Aman’s father died, nothing has been the same. She finds it hard to come to terms with his death, and even her warm circle of friends and family cannot make up for his loss.

But then a kind, gentle man called Gurnam moves into the area. Aman encounters him when he protects her, and her dog, from some bullies. She and her family strike up a friendship with him, that quickly becomes important to all of them. But Gurman always seems deeply unhappy.

Aman realises that there is a secret in his past, but she does not guess at the underlying truth – the truth that may tear Gurman away from them all too soon.

This warm, optimistic book carries a vital message about the importance of confronting and resisting homophobia in all parts of society. But in the well-handled father-daughter type relationship that develops between Gurman and Aman, it also highlights the importance of creating a strong, multi-generational community.

While accessible to dyslexic readers, this book would be a rewarding read for any teenager, with the caveat that it contains references to suicide and homophobia, which some may find upsetting.