To give a synopsis of this story seems quite daunting to me, as the complexities of the novel are hardly recognized in a few sentences. The Little Giant of Aberdeen County, the debut novel by Tiffany Baker, is a story that follows the arc of a woman’s life from birth to middle age, but in no way is that life typical. The story is often painful, the characters are frequently harsh and hurtful, but the voice of the protagonist is a quiet and quite unassuming one, even though her person is literally larger than life. Yes, this is a story of a giant.
At least that’s what Truly Plaice is told as a five year old by her astounded teacher as the only possible explanation for her much-larger-than-normal body– “You’re a little giant!” She proceeds to live her life trying to fade into the background, which as you can imagine is more than a little difficult. The cast of characters stays small in Truly’s life, since she never leaves her small town, and she suffers the indignities of essentially being the town freak. But, throughout the various hardships she has to endure, she does just that. She endures.
I found there to be an almost magical tone to this novel, even though it takes place firmly in a realistic setting of a small New York town, beginning in the 1950’s. Perhaps it was the lyrical quality of the language– when Truly expressed her feelings, I found myself going back to underline passages and dog-ear the pages. The novel moves along at a perfect pace, and I easily tore through the book in two days, which can be quite a feat for a mom with three young children!
I could have done with a bit of a difference at the end– one plot twist simply seemed too unjust for Truly– but all in all, this was a magnificent debut novel, and I wholeheartedly look forward to Ms. Baker’s next offering.
Would you like to win one of four copies of this new novel? Please leave a comment here, and we’ll announce the winners on January 28 when we announce our next giveaway. This is open to U.S. and Canadian shipping addresses and is void where prohibited.
Don’t miss future reviews and giveaways. Subscribe to our feed.
The winner of last week’s book The Book Tree is #59 Megret.
This unique novel has been included on our list of 5 Star Reads.
Guest reviewer Dawn blogs at my thoughts exactly while keeping up with three wacky kids.
Please enter me into the contest. Thanks!
This sounds like a really good read. Thanks!
i saw this book on my book club flyer and was thinking of possibly ordering it. looks very interesting exactly like the type of book i like to read. thanks for the giveaway!
I would love to win the book
This book sounds like a real grabber. I would love to read it.
This book sounds really good. A definite must read! Thanks for the opportunity.
id love the chance to read this book 🙂
This sounds like an interesting read.
I think most of us can relate to enduring hardships. Thanks for the giveaway!
Sounds like a great book…
I love books! Thanks for the chance.
Sounds like a wonderful read! Thanks for the opportunity to win and a great review.
I would love to win this book.
I’d love to read this book!
I would like to win a copy of this book. Sounds interesting.
Seems to be a read I need!
This book sounds great!
I would love to read this!
OOOO: a new author. I’m ready since I finished my new Evanovich and LuAnne Rice books in three days flat. Please? And thank you.
I’d love to win this book.
When reading a book, I become “a part” of that book and leave the real world behind. I collect books like some people collect dust….”they are everywhere in my house!” I would LOVE to win one of Ms. Baker’s books, especially The Little Giant of Aberdeen County.
Sounds like one I’d love to read.
I have heard about this book and am interested in reading it. Thanks for the chance!
This looks like a good read.
Sounds like a good read, and I love finding new authors so I hope I win!
Sounds like a good book, I read alot and would love to try it!
Great review of this novel.I am very interested
in this book due to the strength and survival
of this character.A good lesson in this story
im sure.Please enter me and thanks
OK, I’m intrigued… count me in and thanks for the opportunity. : )
I would love to read this book, it sounds really interesting. Thanks for having the contest!
Nice prize! I would love to win! Thanks so much for the giveaway!
This looks like a good read. Thanks for the giveaway!
I was born in 1950 so this is my era. I’d love to read this book.
It sounds interesting. I’m looking for a good book to read.
Sounds great, love to win!
Thanks for the contest!