What I love about Little Fires Everywhere by Celest Ng is the author’s deft use of multiple points of view because the reader sees the events from adult and teen perspectives. Differences between how each character sees the world of their planned community, their families, and themselves are revealed at the breathtaking end. Secrets emerge and loyalties change as the families of Shaker Heights, near Cleveland, Ohio, connect. Small yearnings build as the characters discover and pursue their desires. The smoldering needs of these characters grow one detail, one word, one action at a time. The reader can smell the smoke of the coming fire from chapter to chapter. Who will start it and why?
While some characters view the world as they believe it should be and not as it is, others see clearly. The reader enjoys the omniscience of seeing the entire story from a distance and from deep within the minds and souls of the characters. The story explores the meanings of family and loyalty and honesty. This is the kind of book that generates lively discussion at book clubs.
For more books by Celest Ng, see: Celeste Ng’s website.