Book: Small Things Like These

"Small Things Like These" by Claire Keegan is a beautifully woven narrative set in the small Irish town of New Ross during the chilly days leading up to Christmas in 1985. The story centers around Bill Furlong, a coal and timber merchant, whose routine life belies a profound depth of personal reflection and moral introspection. As he makes his deliveries, Furlong encounters a series of quiet yet powerful events that expose the oppressive shadows cast by the local religious institution. This encounter poses significant ethical questions and forces Bill to confront his own values and the power of seemingly small choices. Keegan's artful storytelling captures the essence of a community bound by silence and tradition, exploring themes of courage, compassion, and resilience. Through lyrical prose and a compelling sense of place, the novel illuminates how small acts of kindness and moral bravery can transform lives, even in the face of adversity. "Small Things Like These" is a poignant and resonant tale about finding light and truth amidst darkness.