While attending the Kentucky Book Festival recently, an author highly recommended this novella, Small Things Like These, by Claire Keegan. The timing worked out perfectly as we rapidly approach the holiday season. This novella is set in 1985, Ireland, where we meet Bill Furlong, a coal merchant. The Christmas holiday is approaching and Bill delivers coal to the local convent. He has an unexpected experience that has him processing his past and present circumstances.

I realize this has become a very popular novella and I enjoyed it, but not equal to the hype. The book seemed to be set in a time period way earlier than 1985…it seemed like the 1950s. I realize I am unfamiliar with the culture of Ireland and my impression is likely attributed to a difference in culture.

I liked Bill and his family in the beginning. As the story progressed, I noticed my opinion of his wife was changing. I finally established an emotional connection to the story and began to understand why this novella has received so much praise when the story abruptly ended. The audiobook was a nice listen while I decorated my Christmas trees. I appreciate the holiday setting of this story, as it helped me get into the spirit of the season.

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