A review by zoeelizaking
Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan

emotional inspiring reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Within barely 100 pages Keegan creates a quietly reflective story with such a rich and immersive atmosphere and deeply layered protagonist in Bill. It’s a story of humanity and all of the ways in which it’s challenged — and how when faced with these challenges we can choose hypocrisy or kindness — against the backdrop of 1980s Ireland. Keegan peppers the text with minute moments of social and political commentary which cumulatively have a searing effect. I read a review which said she doesn’t waste a single word, and I couldn’t agree more — the economy of language, coupled with what she achieves in so few words is staggering. I devoured in a single sitting — a masterclass in my opinion.  
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