Small Worlds
One of the most acclaimed and internationally bestselling "unforgettable" (New York Times) debuts of the 2021, Caleb Azumah Nelson's London-set love story Open Water took the US by storm and introduced the world to a salient and insightful new voice in fiction. Now, with his second novel Small Worlds, the prodigious Azumah Nelson brings another set of enduring characters to brilliant life in his signature rhythmic, melodic prose.
Set over the course of three summers, Small Worlds follows Stephen, a first-generation Londoner born to Ghanian immigrant parents, brother to Ray, and best friend to Adeline. On the cusp of big life changes, Stephen feels pressured to follow a certain path--a university degree, a move out of home--but when he decides instead to follow his first love, music, his world and family fractures in ways he didn't foresee. Now Stephen must find a path and peace for himself: a space he can feel beautiful, a space he can feel free.
Moving from London, England to Accra, Ghana and back again, Small Worlds is an exquisite and intimate new novel about the people and places we hold close, from one of the most "elegant, poetic" (CNN) and important voices of a generation.
BUY THE BOOK
Community Reviews
What’s it about?
This novel centers on Stephen. Stephen is a first-generation immigrant from Ghana living in London. He lives with his parents and older brother, Raymond. His father has a path set out for Stephen, which is safe and feels necessary to him. When Stephen forges a new path, it affects the family in many ways.
What did it make me think about?
What a writer!
Should I read it?
What a talented storyteller Caleb Azumah Nelson is! I did not read Open Water (his first book), but I will have to rectify that. The author writes a lot about being open with those you are in a relationship with and how difficult that can be. We see Stephen struggle to find his way; his journey is worth reading about. “You’re worried your own body is storing harm in the seclusion of its darkness. You’re worried that there’s only so much your heart can take. You’re worried that your anger and sadness have been echoing through your life, multiplying, misdirecting, finding homes in those closest to you.” I wanted to find out what would happen with Stephen so it was not difficult to read. However, this is a slower-paced novel, so do not expect fireworks. But do expect exceptional writing and thoughtful insights.
Quote-
“Maybe this is all we need sometimes, for someone else to believe the possibilities you see for yourself.”
See why thousands of readers are using Bookclubs to stay connected.