Small Wonder

by Barbara Kingsolver
Small Wonder cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Essays / Essay Collections
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £12.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 10666
  • Added: 2026-02-02
  • Updated: 2026-02-03
  • ISBN: 9780571283279
  • Publisher: Faber & Faber
  • Published: 2011-09-15
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In Small Wonder, Barbara Kingsolver brings together a collection of essays that explore the intersections of personal life and global issues. From the Grand Canyon to her backyard, Kingsolver reflects on topics ranging from motherhood and genetic engineering to civil rights and the future of the nation. Her writing is grounded in the belief that solutions to our largest problems can be found in both remote corners of the world and our own backyards. /n/n Whether she is contemplating the natural world, the history of civil rights, or the future of a nation founded on the best of all human impulses, these essays are a testament to Kingsolver's unique perspective and her ability to find hope in even the darkest moments. The book is a love song to the world we still have, offering a hopeful examination of the people we are and what we might yet make of ourselves.

Reviews
Spirituality and Practice · 2026-02-02
powerful 4.50

This collection of essays is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of American life, opening hearts and minds to uncomfortable truths. The writing is both searing and insightful, making it a compelling read.

The reviewer describes this collection as a searing and insightful exploration of American life. The essays are not just thought-provoking but also emotionally impactful, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable truths about society. The writing is powerful and compelling, making it a standout collection that resonates long after reading. The reviewer appreciates the way Kingsolver's essays open both hearts and minds, encouraging deeper reflection on important issues.

Quick quotes

    A searing collection of 23 essays that opens our hearts and minds to uncomfortable truths about the American way of life.

    The writing is both searing and insightful, making it a compelling read.

    The essays are not just thought-provoking but also emotionally impactful.

Stuck in a Book · 2021-10-30
thoughtful 4.00

These essays provide a timely perspective on issues that still need discussion, offering a mix of immediacy and reflection. The distance from the original publication date allows for a broader understanding of the topics covered.

The reviewer notes that while the immediacy of these essays has been lost over time, the distance from their original publication actually enhances their value. It allows readers to see which issues have stood the test of time and still require attention. The essays cover a range of topics, providing a thoughtful and reflective look at contemporary concerns. The reviewer appreciates the way Kingsolver's writing offers both personal insight and broader societal commentary.

Quick quotes

    The immediacy of these essays has been lost, but the distance also gives perspective to which issues still need to be discussed.

    The essays cover a range of topics, providing a thoughtful and reflective look at contemporary concerns.

    Kingsolver's writing offers both personal insight and broader societal commentary.

Grist · Jonna Higgins-Freese · 2002-07-16
engaging 4.20

Kingsolver's use of storytelling and playful language brings everyday life to vivid detail, making the essays both engaging and insightful. The collection is a testament to her gift for capturing the essence of ordinary moments.

Jonna Higgins-Freese highlights Kingsolver's ability to use storytelling and playful language to bring everyday life to vivid detail. The essays are engaging and insightful, capturing the essence of ordinary moments in a way that resonates with readers. The reviewer appreciates the way Kingsolver's writing makes the mundane feel extraordinary, offering a fresh perspective on everyday experiences. The collection is a testament to her skill as a writer and her ability to connect with readers on a deep level.

Quick quotes

    Throughout Small Wonders, Kingsolver uses her gift for storytelling and for strong, playful language to record the details of everyday life.

    The essays are engaging and insightful, capturing the essence of ordinary moments in a way that resonates with readers.

    The collection is a testament to her skill as a writer and her ability to connect with readers on a deep level.

Appears in Lists