Tired of my typical reading fare, I opted for a novel outside of my favored genre of historical fiction.  Occasionally I find myself in a reading rut and books I would normally enjoy seem almost formula driven. I feel as though the plot, characters and setting are oddly familiar. Some Small Magic  is completely different from any novel I have ever read. It is so unexpected! I will admit that the first few chapters left me feeling like I might not finish because of the heavy subject matter. There were no cheery characters, uplifting moments, or lovely scenery.  The characters in this novel are raw, unpolished, and unsettling.

I dare not discuss any of the plot because too much would be given away. I will say, that this book begins with a boy born into difficult circumstances. Abel is poor, living in a dilapidated, rented trailer with his single Mother who works as a waitress in a crappy diner. Abel also suffers from a genetic disorder that leaves him broken in more than one way. I felt like I knew where the author was headed. And then suddenly, I didn’t! I was floored by the change of direction of the story.

I can easily see Some Small Magic as an eery movie meant for the big screen. I was a bit unnerved by several scenes later in the book. If you love books outside of the norm, interesting characters, and plots that rock your boat…this is likely a great read for you. I am excited to explore other titles by author Billy Coffey. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by BookLookBlogggers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own and I have not been compensated.