Small Island

The story of Small Island revolves around four characters, Hortense, Gilbert, Queenie and Bernard. They are two couples, one white Queenie and Bernard and one Black, Hortense and Gilbert. The novel is narrated in the perspective of these four characters. Plot is set in England of 1948. Gilbert is a soldier in Royal force from Jamaica. He is living in a small room in the house owned by Queenie. The story starts with queenie, her perceptions and thoughts about her own life. Her husband is sent overseas during the war and hasn’t returned yet. Then the story shifts to Hortense , the lady always wanted to leave her ‘small island’ and reside in British isle as it was a ‘large’ one. She set out for England with plenty of expectations and wishes but is disappointed with her new groom and his state of living. Later the plot shifts from Gilbert to Bernard dealing with many issues of race and identity.

Prize history

• Women's Prize for Fiction 2004 Winner