A review by annreadsabook
Small Island by Andrea Levy

challenging emotional reflective sad tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Andrea Levy’s SMALL ISLAND is such a fascinating and engrossing read, even though I can’t say all of the characters are particularly likable (but I think that’s part of the point). We’re introduced to Hortense, Gilbert, Queenie, and Bernard, a Black Jamaican couple and a white British couple, respectively, who find their lives closely connected after Hortense and Gilbert land in Great Britain during and after World War II.

What I really appreciate about this book is the way that each character is complex and three-dimensional—Queenie, a white British landlord, takes pride in the fact that she’s ~not like the other violently racist Brits~ all while still exoticizing and othering Black people in her daily life. And Hortense, who does face substantial racism and misogyny, herself often engages in anti-Black patterns of thought and behavior. On top of this, SMALL ISLAND is full of commentary on colonialism and empire, as Gilbert attempts to take pride in fighting a war on behalf of a nation that enslaved and colonized his people. And the ending?? No spoilers, of course, but wow—so well done and lots to mull over.

If you’re looking for a book that’s heavy on domestic drama and sociopolitical commentary, definitely check out SMALL ISLAND! For those just getting into historical fiction, this might be a lot to start out with, as I found the pacing to slow down a bit in some places, but if you’ve been reading and enjoying historical fiction for a while, this might be right up your alley!