Who is the author of 'Little, Big'?

The author of 'Little, Big' is John Crowley.

What are the main themes in 'Little, Big'?

The main themes in 'Little, Big' include Fantasy, Magical Realism.

What genre is 'Little, Big'?

'Little, Big' is categorized as Fantasy.

What is the main premise of 'Little, Big' by John Crowley?

'Little, Big' by John Crowley is a fantasy novel that follows the Drinkwater family over several generations, primarily focusing on the character of Smoky Barnable as he navigates his marriage to Alice Drinkwater. The story intertwines elements of magic, the mundane, and the shifting boundaries between reality and the fairy world. The novel explores themes of love, family, and the interplay between the ordinary and the extraordinary, emphasizing how small, seemingly insignificant moments can have profound implications in the larger tapestry of life.

Who are the central characters in the story, and what roles do they play?

In "Little, Big" by John Crowley, the central characters include: Smoky Barnable - The protagonist of the story, a young man who becomes entangled in the lives of the Drinkwater family after marrying Daily Alice. He navigates the complex relationships and the boundaries between the mundane world and the magical. Daily Alice Drinkwater - Smoky's wife, a member of the Drinkwater family, characterized by her beauty and connection to the magical elements of the world. Her relationship with Smoky anchors the story. The Drinkwater Family - Comprising several key members such as: Eldest Drinkwater - The head of the family, a significant figure with a connection to the hidden, magical aspects of their lives. Noseworthy, Elinor, and older family members - Each contributes to the overarching themes of family legacy, magic, and the intertwining of various realms. The Fairies - Represented by various characters and elements within the story, they play a crucial role in reflecting the magical world that is separate yet intertwined with the lives of the Drinkwaters. These characters together explore themes of love, family, and the subtle interplay between reality and fantasy.

What themes are explored in 'Little, Big', such as family and reality versus fantasy?

In 'Little, Big' by John Crowley, several themes are intricately explored, including: Family and Relationships: The novel centers around the Drinkwater family and shows how familial bonds shape identity and personal dynamics. It emphasizes the significance of family connections and the complexities within them. Reality versus Fantasy: A central theme is the interplay between reality and the fantastical. Crowley weaves a narrative where the mundane and the magical coexist, raising questions about perception, belief, and the nature of reality. The Nature of Time: The novel explores time as a fluid concept, where past, present, and future are interwoven, affecting characters' lives and their relationships with each other and the world. Existence and Identity: Characters grapple with their places in both the real world and the fairy-tale elements of their lives, leading to existential reflections on identity and purpose. Art and Creation: The novel also touches on themes of creativity, the act of storytelling, and how narratives shape our understanding of ourselves and our surroundings.

How does the setting of the novel influence the characters and their journeys?

The setting of 'Little, Big' significantly influences the characters and their journeys through its rich and magical environment that blurs the lines between the ordinary and the extraordinary. The novel primarily takes place in a large, whimsical house called Edgewood, which is situated at the border of the mundane world and the realm of Faerie. This setting creates an atmosphere of enchantment and mystery, shaping the characters' experiences and their relationships with the magical aspects of their lives. The house itself, with its numerous rooms, gardens, and hidden passages, symbolizes the complexity of family and identity, highlighting the interconnectedness of the characters across generations. As characters navigate both the physical space of Edgewood and the metaphorical spaces of their own lives, they encounter challenges and revelations that guide their personal growth. The presence of Faerie, which subtly intertwines with the everyday world, challenges characters to reconcile their practical concerns with the magical elements of existence, ultimately influencing their decisions and destinies. Moreover, the setting reflects themes of time, memory, and the cyclical nature of life, as the characters are often caught between past legacies and future possibilities. The enchantment of Edgewood serves as a catalyst for self-discovery and transformation, propelling the characters on their unique journeys as they engage with the mysteries and wonders of both their ancestry and the world around them.

What significance do the fantastical elements hold in relation to the characters' lives?

In 'Little, Big' by John Crowley, the fantastical elements serve multiple significant functions in relation to the characters' lives. Primarily, these elements blur the lines between reality and fantasy, reflecting the characters' inner desires, beliefs, and struggles. The presence of the supernatural highlights the importance of imagination and the unexplainable in everyday life, symbolizing the characters' aspirations and connections to something beyond their mundane experiences. The fantastical aspects also create a sense of wonder and mystery, fostering moments of transformation and growth within the characters. Key events and beings from the fairy realm influence the characters' choices, relationships, and destinies, emphasizing themes such as love, family, and the passage of time. Ultimately, the interplay between the fantastical and the mundane illuminates the rich tapestry of human experience, suggesting that magic and reality coexist and shape one another in profound ways.

Little, Big

In 'Little, Big', John Crowley weaves a captivating tale that blends fantasy with reality, exploring the life of the Drinkwater family. As they navigate their enchanting yet mysterious home, the boundaries between the mundane and the magical blur, revealing secrets that could alter their lives forever. The story unfolds across generations, immersing readers in a world where the tiniest details can have monumental significance. Intricate, lyrical prose draws you into a rich tapestry of love, loss, and the complexities of existence. Prepare to be enchanted by a narrative that challenges perception and leaves you pondering the extraordinary within the ordinary.

By John Crowley

Published: 2006

""The world is full of strange and beautiful things, but it takes a curious mind and an open heart to see them.""

Fantasy Magical Realism

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What Readers Say About This Book

John Crowley's masterful Little, Big is the epic story of Smoky Barnable, an anonymous young man who travels by foot from the City to a place called Edgewood—not found on any map—to marry Daily Alice Drinkawater, as was prophesied. It is the story of four generations of a singular family, living in a house that is many houses on the magical border of an otherworld. It is a story of fantastic love and heartrending loss; of impossible things and unshakable destinies; and of the great Tale that envelops us all. It is a wonder.

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from Little, Big

In "Little, Big," the plot development and story arc are masterfully woven, reflecting the lives of the Drinkwater family across generations, where the line between the mundane and the magical is beautifully blurred. The novel begins with the ordinary, chronicling the lives of the Drinkwater family who reside in a peculiar yet mundane house, illustrating how the seemingly trivial moments – such as the daily routines and gatherings – subtly set the stage for larger, fantastical revelations. One significant event is the wedding of Auberon Drinkwater to the enchanting but elusive environment surrounding them, which reveals how family dynamics shape individuals in profound ways. As the narrative unfolds, the magical elements grow more pronounced, such as the enigmatic beings and intersections with fairy realms, emphasizing that their influence has always existed beneath the surface of their daily existence. This slow revelation mirrors the broader theme of the book – that life is a delicate balance of reality and fantasy, where small choices and actions can lead to extraordinary outcomes. The climax, where characters confront their intertwined fates and the unexpected repercussions of their choices, reflects a deep moral inquiry into identity, family legacy, and the hidden depths of our experiences, making their struggles both relatable and transcendent.

About the Author

John Crowley

John Crowley is an acclaimed American author known for his profound and imaginative contributions to speculative fiction. Born on December 16, 1942, Crowley's notable works include 'Little, Big'—a richly layered fantasy novel that weaves elements of myth and reality, earning critical praise for its lyrical prose and complex narrative structure. Other significant works include 'Aegypt,' a semi-historical novel exploring themes of history, memory, and the nature of reality, and 'The Translator,' which delves into the challenges of language and communication. Crowley's writing is characterized by its philosophical depth, intricate character development, and an ability to evoke the subtleties of human experience.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: John Crowley
Published: October 2006
Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks
ISBN: 0061120057
Language: English
Pages: 576
Genres: FantasyMagical Realism

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“"The world is full of strange and beautiful things, but it takes a curious mind and an open heart to see them."”

Little, Big

By John Crowley

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Key Points from Little, Big

In "Little, Big," the plot development and story arc are masterfully woven, reflecting the lives of the Drinkwater family across generations, where the line between the mundane and the magical is beautifully blurred. The novel begins with the ordinary, chronicling the lives of the Drinkwater family who reside in a peculiar yet mundane house, illustrating how the seemingly trivial moments – such as the daily routines and gatherings – subtly set the stage for larger, fantastical revelations. One significant event is the wedding of Auberon Drinkwater to the enchanting but elusive environment surrounding them, which reveals how family dynamics shape individuals in profound ways. As the narrative unfolds, the magical elements grow more pronounced, such as the enigmatic beings and intersections with fairy realms, emphasizing that their influence has always existed beneath the surface of their daily existence. This slow revelation mirrors the broader theme of the book – that life is a delicate balance of reality and fantasy, where small choices and actions can lead to extraordinary outcomes. The climax, where characters confront their intertwined fates and the unexpected repercussions of their choices, reflects a deep moral inquiry into identity, family legacy, and the hidden depths of our experiences, making their struggles both relatable and transcendent.

Little, Big

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What Readers Say About This Book

The Mike & Casey Show

Key Points from Little, Big

About the Author

John Crowley

Book Details

Purchase Options

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Mistborn

The Priory of the Orange Tree

American Gods

Good Omens

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One Hundred Years of Solitude

Switch

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