Plot Summary

Small Island

Andrea Levy
Guide cover placeholder

Small Island

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2004

Book Brief

Andrea Levy

Small Island

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

British Literature
Period
World War II
Setting

London, England • 1940s

Topic
Race & Racism

Military & War

World History
Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

780L

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Small Island by Andrea Levy is told from four shifting perspectives—Queenie, Hortense, Gilbert, and Bernard—spanning from post-World War I to 1948. The story explores the intertwined lives of two couples, one Black and one white, against the backdrop of societal and racial upheaval, culminating in unexpected connections and personal revelations. The book addresses themes of racism and trauma.

Informative

Challenging

Emotional

Bittersweet

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

41,627 ratings

76%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Andrea Levy's Small Island is praised for its rich storytelling, intricate character development, and deft handling of historical themes like post-WWII migration and racial issues. Readers commend the dual narrative structure and emotional depth, though some find the pacing uneven. Overall, it’s a compelling, thought-provoking read that offers significant cultural insights.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Small Island?

A reader who would enjoy Small Island by Andrea Levy is likely interested in historical fiction that explores post-WWII Britain and the immigrant experience. They may also appreciate richly developed characters and themes of identity and belonging, similar to fans of Zadie Smith's White Teeth and Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner.

4.2

41,627 ratings

76%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

British Literature
Period
World War II
Setting

London, England • 1940s

Topic
Race & Racism

Military & War

World History
Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

780L

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!