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kathshiroma's review against another edition
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexism and Misogyny
Minor: Fatphobia
bethsreading's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
I read Small Things Like These about a year ago and adored it. Claire Keegan’s writing is stunning and, to me, had a Joycean quality to it. So this year I wanted to read some more of her books.
The story follows Cathal over the course of an uneventful day while he reminisces on moments from his last relationship. Overall, I liked So Late in the Day. The main character is interesting as he is both somewhat sympathetic but also quite unlikeable. The story was paced well and kept me interested while maintaining it’s mellow tone. It does explore some interesting elements of misogyny that can easily be found yet disregarded in some heterosexual relationships; however, certain elements of this were a little unsubtle for my taste and I wish they had been explored in a more show and not tell way. For me, sadly, it was missing something that Small Things Like These had; it is something that I find hard to pinpoint but I think I could best describe it as the depth of earnestness.
I still love her writing style and it once again reminded me of the more tender, contemplative aspects of James Joyce’s writing. I’m looking forward to reading more of her work.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexism and Misogyny
Minor: Fatphobia
millie_blue's review against another edition
challenging
reflective
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
‘Small Things Like These’ is a thoughtful text, one that has made me consider the position of gender roles and misogyny in the 21st century. Keenan’s descriptive writing is always admirable - it’s the perfect example of packing a lot into a short story!
Content Warnings
Minor: Gaslighting, Fatphobia, and Misogyny
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