A review by thecaffeinatedlibrary
Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan

challenging reflective sad

• Plot- or character-driven? Character

5.0

 Small Things Like These is a hard hitting tale that speaks on the true power the Church can wield over people. It wastes nothing, filled with razor sharp prose that cuts deep. Claire has constructed a story that is simultaneously cosy, incredibly distressing, and heartbreaking.

We have some powerful commentary on gender, parental fear and the innocence of children. Bill is a delight to follow, multiple times I just wanted to give him a hug. He’s a wonderful person, and a wonderful dad, though he isn’t without his flaws. The backdrop of Christmas is so brilliantly written, it is a reminder to all that small things can make big impacts — even if that impact is on one single person. This was such a short novel, but somehow so perfectly paced without leaving anything wanting. This was magnificent.

I’m really looking forward to reading more of Claire Keegan’s work!