A review by davinareads
Small Worlds by Caleb Azumah Nelson

emotional reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Small Worlds is a beautifully written story about the joy of living in your own space, discovering your passions, love, and personal history. It captures the simple pleasure of just existing in your own "small world," and I absolutely loved it.

One of the standout elements for me was the masterful use of repetition. It wasn’t overdone—it was impactful and purposeful, showing just how effective repetition can be when used right. The writing itself is lyrical and flows with its own rhythm, almost like a spiritual experience, just as the book says.

Emotionally, it takes you through a range—happiness, sadness, and even anger. The characters were wonderfully drawn, and the plot, while simple, was executed with such depth and grace. It’s a book that doesn’t need flashy twists to make an impact; its strength is in how it makes you feel.

Overall, Small Worlds is a 5-star contemporary read for me, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a moving, beautifully crafted story.