A review by marywahlmeierbracciano
Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan

challenging reflective medium-paced
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Irish master of short stories Claire Keegan delivers a pocket-sized novel in a richly drawn village of secrets and the status quo.  It’s 1985 and Christmas is nearing.  Bill Furlong’s coal and firewood business is busy as ever, but on an early delivery to a laundry run by nuns, he comes across an unholy sight.  Furlong is no Scrooge—a good man is he—but recognition of his privilege, complicity, and hypocrisy sets him on a journey of self-discovery not unlike that of A Christmas Carol.  Furlong’s recognition of the worth of those around him, and of himself, will warm your heart and open your eyes. 
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