The first book-length study of one of Britain's most successful young writers. His work in a range of genres, from drama to film, fiction and short stories, has elicited widespread critical acclaim and - at times - provoked sharp condemnation. Provides a detailed account of his work to date, from Kureishi's early involvement in 'fringe' theatre (an area generally ignored hitherto), to the short story collections. Locates Kureishi's work securely in its historical, social, cultural and critical contexts, as well as providing detailed readings of all the major works. Kureishi is an important writer due to his intervention into such modish topics as British identity, questions of race, aspects of gender and choice of genre.

The book is rich in detail, observations, and ideas, and has a lot of reading and work behind it. --Bruce King, World Literature Today

Bart Moore-Gilbert is Reader in Postcolonial Studies and English at Goldsmiths' College, University of London