The book club in July proved to be excellent fun and provided the opportunity for some lively chat. We had to cancel the one in June due to traffic of all things, so we actually read two books. The Smallest Man was the one from June, and this meeting was much anticipated as the Author, Frances Quinn, was kind enough to join us to talk about her novel. This is Quinn’s second novel, the first being That Bonesetter Woman and both are historical fiction, but perhaps a little more lighthearted than the term suggests, in a very favourable way.
Being a writer myself, I was able to contact Frances through her connection to the wonderful Dial Lane Books, the best (and award winning) indie bookshop in town! She is absolutely delightful to speak to and the book club members were thrilled to meet her.
The Smallest Man charts the life of Nat Davy, who is a Dwarf living at the time of the English Civil War. He is sold by his father to the Queen and becomes like a pet or doll for her amusement. But before long, a deep friendship develops. It is a ‘page turner,’ with a great deal of intelligence, considering the themes of prejudice and outsiders; of seeing beyond what is in front of you to know the person behind a disability. Above all, it has friendship at hits heart. Nathaniel Davy is a strong character who overcomes all of his challenges and the smallest man in England has a big, big personality and heart. The reader roots for this amazing character from the beginning, and that is one reason why the novel is so captivating.
It is based on the true tale of Jefferey Hudson, who was indeed ‘The Queen’s Dwarf’ and although the book is fiction, much of it is accurate and true. Nat captures the spirit of Hudson, who was at the centre of many adventures. The book also explains a great deal about the Civil War, but from the entertaining perspective of Nat himself.
It was fascinating to hear the real tale, and how Frances has adapted it, and we now understand why Hudson’s rather tragic ending has been changed to a happy one for Nat: the author was too emotionally invested in this character not to give him the ending he deserved. And thank goodness for that because we loved hm too!
The verdict was a unanimous love of this story (the only one so far where we have not had divided opinions) It’s a 10/10 from us and definitely one to read. (10/10 for the attractive cover as well)
Thank you Fran for joining us, and for this story! Hope to catch up soon.
Virginia Betts 