Small Worlds

Set in London and Ghana across three summers, Small Worlds is an intimate and powerful exploration of a son-father relationship, music, and searching for meaning from the acclaimed author of Open Water.

Winner of the Swansea University Dylan Thomas Prize 2024

Dancing is the one thing that can solve Stephen's problems.

At Church with his family, the shimmer of Black hands raised in praise. With his band, making music speaking not just to their hardships, but their joys. Grooving with his best friend, so close their heads might touch. Dancing alone to his father's records, uncovering parts of a man he has never truly known. His youth, shame and sacrifice.

Stephen has only ever known himself in song. But what becomes of him when the music fades?

Set over the course of three summers, from South London to Ghana and back again, Small Worlds is a novel about the worlds we build for ourselves. The worlds we live, dance and love within.