Small Great Things

Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult   470 pages

Racism is not black and white. It is not simply a matter of what is or is not; it is a matter of degree. The story follows Picoult’s tried-and-true formula: The first half of the book presents a social, ethical, moral dilemma, and the second half is a legal courtroom thriller. In this case, a white baby dies in a hospital, the victim of an infant disorder that kills. His parents are white supremacists who have made clear that they do not want an African American nurse to touch their child. When the disorder creates a situation where the child is about to die, the black nurse, along with everyone else available, fights valiantly but unsuccessfully to save the little one. The nurse is blamed for the death, as supposed retaliation for her treatment by the racist parents, and is charged with murder. 

As expected, I’m always struck by Picoult’s mastery of characterization and dialogue. Her deft writing ability makes this a page turning, fast moving thriller that grips the reader in the first few pages and literally does not let up until the final pages. Picoult develops the characters and provides backstory throughout the narrative. Switching perspectives between the three leading first person narrators, we are presented with a kaleidoscope of complicated issues that is narrowed down into a judge and jury decided outcome.

Although Small Great Things is predictable in its poignant, thought provoking modern morality play about active and passive racism in our society, the most compelling and passionate argument was the defense of the topic and a plea to society from the author at the end of the story. If you read nothing else, flip to the back and join her crusade.

Posted by: Regina C.