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Big Little Fights
This is a book about how you can grow up in a village surrounded by livestock, then move to the city to meet someone who first encountered a real cow at 26.
But it isn’t a book about cows.
It’s about the intricate tapestry of socialization and its impact on our adult selves as lovers.
It might seem like a boy-meets-girl book at first glance but it delves deeper, documenting couple conflicts and tracing them back to their childhood origins.
Within these pages, you'll find 20 intimate stories of real couples recounting their most (in)significant conflicts. The stories reveal how our past shapes us and expose our emotional baggage, they show how our upbringing influences our romantic choices and how we navigate conflict.
In exposing these connections, it offers a chance to see, and maybe laugh at, ourselves.
But it isn’t a book about cows.
It’s about the intricate tapestry of socialization and its impact on our adult selves as lovers.
It might seem like a boy-meets-girl book at first glance but it delves deeper, documenting couple conflicts and tracing them back to their childhood origins.
Within these pages, you'll find 20 intimate stories of real couples recounting their most (in)significant conflicts. The stories reveal how our past shapes us and expose our emotional baggage, they show how our upbringing influences our romantic choices and how we navigate conflict.
In exposing these connections, it offers a chance to see, and maybe laugh at, ourselves.
219 pages, Paperback
Published June 23, 2025
About the author
Jackson Biko
3 books18 followersYou will never find me standing in the middle of the room. I’m that guy who stalks the borders of a room. I belong in the darkened embrace of the shadows. The problem with standing in the middle of the room is that you become part of the narrative and there the power to tell the story of that room is perpetually stripped off you.
And so I’m the guy who relishes watching that narrative unspool from those borders of the room. Then capture it in words; the best seat in the room is where there are no seats.
I love music, food, travel, children (even those that don’t belong to me), clothes, cars, gadgets, whiskey and watching someone hula-hoop. There is something defeatist about that thing, like a dog trying to bite its own tail. But more than loving all the aforementioned, I love to write about these things.
However, am I an authority on any of these things? Hardly. But I have an opinion. And I prefer to share it. Let’s agree that you have your own and it might not be compatible with mine, but let’s agree that we can at least be civilised about it. I think the universe demands that of us.
My name is Jackson Biko. I’m a writer with the Business Daily, True Love magazine and The Saturday Nation. I also edit Msafiri Magazine, Safaricom Foundation’s Msingi Magazine and a scattering of other writing jobs that keep writers like me afloat.
Welcome to my world, to my room, but it’s not really mine when you occupy the middle of it, is it?
And so I’m the guy who relishes watching that narrative unspool from those borders of the room. Then capture it in words; the best seat in the room is where there are no seats.
I love music, food, travel, children (even those that don’t belong to me), clothes, cars, gadgets, whiskey and watching someone hula-hoop. There is something defeatist about that thing, like a dog trying to bite its own tail. But more than loving all the aforementioned, I love to write about these things.
However, am I an authority on any of these things? Hardly. But I have an opinion. And I prefer to share it. Let’s agree that you have your own and it might not be compatible with mine, but let’s agree that we can at least be civilised about it. I think the universe demands that of us.
My name is Jackson Biko. I’m a writer with the Business Daily, True Love magazine and The Saturday Nation. I also edit Msafiri Magazine, Safaricom Foundation’s Msingi Magazine and a scattering of other writing jobs that keep writers like me afloat.
Welcome to my world, to my room, but it’s not really mine when you occupy the middle of it, is it?
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
December 17, 2025
This book was such a lovely and timely reminder to value my peace😂😂
All jokes aside, Biko always finds such a simple but punchy way with words that is so memorable. I enjoyed this for all the emotions it derived from me, for the depiction of different conflict resolution styles, for the literary triumph it is!🫶🏽👏🏽
All jokes aside, Biko always finds such a simple but punchy way with words that is so memorable. I enjoyed this for all the emotions it derived from me, for the depiction of different conflict resolution styles, for the literary triumph it is!🫶🏽👏🏽
December 7, 2025
The Roses and Ians in this book were really going through it. And Biko's writing, so witty. I loved it.
December 14, 2025
Biko at his best. His interviews and storytelling vividly capture the idiosyncrasies and colourful nuances of human relationships, a fun read!! Thanks Maaa for the rec:)
February 5, 2026
The book came highly recommended and it didn’t disappoint. It was a quick read, something one can finish in one sitting. I enjoyed the stories. I cringed at some. I was moved by some. The book is a reminder that our childhoods truly have an effect on who we become. And that love is complex because human beings are complex.
February 22, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. The stories had me laughing so much because honestly, dating is not for the faint-hearted. Every little fight, every awkward moment, every cringe-worthy situation made me nod along because it’s just so real! It’s funny, relatable, and honest in a way that makes you appreciate all the chaos and love in relationships.
December 28, 2025
We all were brought up in different home set ups. Some of our experiences shaped how we relate to our friends, spouses and the determine greatly how we show up in relationships. Is it really about what the fight is about at the moment/that very moment?
Biko Zulu is a literal genius
Biko Zulu is a literal genius
January 4, 2026
wow, I'm so happy I picked this book! It was exactly the kind of read I needed on a Sunday afternoon.
EVERY single story was entertaining and insightful.
Would definitely recommend 🫶🏼
EVERY single story was entertaining and insightful.
Would definitely recommend 🫶🏼
December 29, 2025
This is a book that reminds us that we are all baggage carriers with our butts on a see-saw. Always checking the weight. And, no, it's not about finding a balance, it's about how our fights (the smallest of them all) will always read our weight. On a scale, out aloud.
September 23, 2026
I received Big Little Fights by Jackson Biko from Kibanga Books (https://kibangabooks.com/) on Wednesday, 23rd September.
It took me five days to read it—a testament to how difficult it was to put down.
Jackson Biko’s writing is exceptional; he manages to pack profound life lessons into a slim novella, demonstrating that impact isn’t always measured by page count. I was teetering on the edge of a reading slump before I picked up this book, and I can honestly say it was the best decision I’ve made this year. The short stories within are both weighty and light, capturing the complexity of human relationships in a way that feels instantly familiar. I can’t recall the last time I read something so relatable and evocative.
Biko’s talent lies in his ability to capture the wit, charm, and contradictions of everyday life. The stories are vivid, clever, and deeply engaging. Each narrative feels like a mirror, reflecting parts of ourselves we often overlook—sometimes we are the thorns, other times the roses, or perhaps, as Biko suggests, the Ians. Reading this collection reignited my love for books, and I’m eager to explore everything else Biko has written.
An unexpected delight in the book was Biko’s references to hidden gems—hotels and resorts scattered throughout the stories. They’re subtly woven into the narrative, offering readers ideas for places to visit with loved ones after they’ve finished reading. And Biko, if you happen to read this: I’m still curious about the mysterious broken leg story. That tidbit alone kept me guessing, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
But, as Biko’s stories remind us, nobody is beyond hope. Maybe my redeeming qualities will tip the scales in our favour!
At its core, Big Little Fights is not just a book about rural or urban life, or about cows and city-dwellers. It’s an exploration of how our upbringing and socialisation shape us as adults, especially in our roles as lovers and partners. The book initially masquerades as a simple boy-meets-girl collection, but beneath the surface, it is much deeper. It meticulously documents the arguments and conflicts couples face, tracing them back to their roots in childhood and family life.
Within these pages are 20 intimate stories drawn from real couples, each recounting conflicts that range from the seemingly insignificant—like how to squeeze a toothpaste tube—to the deeply consequential, such as how to handle an old flame reaching out on your wedding day. Biko does a masterful job showing how our emotional baggage and formative experiences influence our choices, our reactions, and the ways we navigate love and conflict as adults. The book invites us to laugh at ourselves and recognise that our quirks and disagreements are universal.
The collection stands out for its eclectic mix of stories and characters. Biko’s writing brings each couple to life, offering glimpses into charmed, unpredictable existences. With every story, I found myself trying to decipher which ones might be based on Biko’s own life, especially since he mischievously hints that two stories involve him. I spent a good deal of time speculating—using clues like location and age—but ultimately realised the fun is in the guessing, not the certainty.
What makes Big Little Fights so enjoyable is its honesty and humour. The book is genuinely funny, filled with sharp wit and clever observations about the little misunderstandings that can escalate into major drama. Biko transforms everyday squabbles into laugh-out-loud moments, capturing the messiness and magic of relationships in a way that feels both familiar and refreshing. Some stories resonated more than others, but the collection as a whole is consistently entertaining and insightful.
I highly recommend savouring this book over several days rather than rushing through it. Let the stories breathe, and the characters develop in your mind. Whether you read it in a sitting or stretch it out over a week, the experience is rewarding.
If you’re searching for a book that is light yet deeply reflective, one that will make you laugh while offering genuine insight into the realities of love and partnership, Big Little Fights is a must-read. Jackson Biko’s voice is distinctive, relatable, and brimming with personality—a true celebration of the big and little moments that define our relationships.
It took me five days to read it—a testament to how difficult it was to put down.
Jackson Biko’s writing is exceptional; he manages to pack profound life lessons into a slim novella, demonstrating that impact isn’t always measured by page count. I was teetering on the edge of a reading slump before I picked up this book, and I can honestly say it was the best decision I’ve made this year. The short stories within are both weighty and light, capturing the complexity of human relationships in a way that feels instantly familiar. I can’t recall the last time I read something so relatable and evocative.
Biko’s talent lies in his ability to capture the wit, charm, and contradictions of everyday life. The stories are vivid, clever, and deeply engaging. Each narrative feels like a mirror, reflecting parts of ourselves we often overlook—sometimes we are the thorns, other times the roses, or perhaps, as Biko suggests, the Ians. Reading this collection reignited my love for books, and I’m eager to explore everything else Biko has written.
An unexpected delight in the book was Biko’s references to hidden gems—hotels and resorts scattered throughout the stories. They’re subtly woven into the narrative, offering readers ideas for places to visit with loved ones after they’ve finished reading. And Biko, if you happen to read this: I’m still curious about the mysterious broken leg story. That tidbit alone kept me guessing, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
But, as Biko’s stories remind us, nobody is beyond hope. Maybe my redeeming qualities will tip the scales in our favour!
At its core, Big Little Fights is not just a book about rural or urban life, or about cows and city-dwellers. It’s an exploration of how our upbringing and socialisation shape us as adults, especially in our roles as lovers and partners. The book initially masquerades as a simple boy-meets-girl collection, but beneath the surface, it is much deeper. It meticulously documents the arguments and conflicts couples face, tracing them back to their roots in childhood and family life.
Within these pages are 20 intimate stories drawn from real couples, each recounting conflicts that range from the seemingly insignificant—like how to squeeze a toothpaste tube—to the deeply consequential, such as how to handle an old flame reaching out on your wedding day. Biko does a masterful job showing how our emotional baggage and formative experiences influence our choices, our reactions, and the ways we navigate love and conflict as adults. The book invites us to laugh at ourselves and recognise that our quirks and disagreements are universal.
The collection stands out for its eclectic mix of stories and characters. Biko’s writing brings each couple to life, offering glimpses into charmed, unpredictable existences. With every story, I found myself trying to decipher which ones might be based on Biko’s own life, especially since he mischievously hints that two stories involve him. I spent a good deal of time speculating—using clues like location and age—but ultimately realised the fun is in the guessing, not the certainty.
What makes Big Little Fights so enjoyable is its honesty and humour. The book is genuinely funny, filled with sharp wit and clever observations about the little misunderstandings that can escalate into major drama. Biko transforms everyday squabbles into laugh-out-loud moments, capturing the messiness and magic of relationships in a way that feels both familiar and refreshing. Some stories resonated more than others, but the collection as a whole is consistently entertaining and insightful.
I highly recommend savouring this book over several days rather than rushing through it. Let the stories breathe, and the characters develop in your mind. Whether you read it in a sitting or stretch it out over a week, the experience is rewarding.
If you’re searching for a book that is light yet deeply reflective, one that will make you laugh while offering genuine insight into the realities of love and partnership, Big Little Fights is a must-read. Jackson Biko’s voice is distinctive, relatable, and brimming with personality—a true celebration of the big and little moments that define our relationships.
December 8, 2025
This was such an interesting collection of stories where characters lived a charmed life, given a thousand and one days your imagination could not come up with the things that happened. This thing we call love...
You would expect that I came out of this pensive and resolute on how to treat my partner better and to take the road less travelled but no, Biko had mentioned earlier that two of the stories narrated here involve him but have been peppered with misdirections to ensure that you can pinpoint it's him. I spent a lot of time while reading this trying to guess which one could be him. The ones involving Kisumu were obviously not him because too easy, what if I use age related cues that Biko might have forgotten to remove,still unclear...which ones are they then? I would urge interested readers to not fall into this rabbit hole
On a more serious note, the book was an eclectic mix of stories on the fights couples normally have be it the small ones like how one presses the toothpaste bottle to more serious ones like a former love interest calling your partner on your wedding day and what it means when your partner gives them a listening ear and many many more. You could read this in a day but I prefer doing it over a longer period like a week or so to allow characters time to flesh themselves and come to life. Highly recommended.
You would expect that I came out of this pensive and resolute on how to treat my partner better and to take the road less travelled but no, Biko had mentioned earlier that two of the stories narrated here involve him but have been peppered with misdirections to ensure that you can pinpoint it's him. I spent a lot of time while reading this trying to guess which one could be him. The ones involving Kisumu were obviously not him because too easy, what if I use age related cues that Biko might have forgotten to remove,still unclear...which ones are they then? I would urge interested readers to not fall into this rabbit hole
On a more serious note, the book was an eclectic mix of stories on the fights couples normally have be it the small ones like how one presses the toothpaste bottle to more serious ones like a former love interest calling your partner on your wedding day and what it means when your partner gives them a listening ear and many many more. You could read this in a day but I prefer doing it over a longer period like a week or so to allow characters time to flesh themselves and come to life. Highly recommended.
October 10, 2026
Biko never disappoints. He always knows where to throw in a funny line.
The things that we picked up in our childhood, which sometimes define how we socialize with partners and friends in our adulthood. The things that break or glue us together. The necessary and unnecessary exchanges. Those words that shouldn't come out but still do.
The little fights that aren't so little.
Need a laugh on a quiet weekend afternoon? This is the read.
The things that we picked up in our childhood, which sometimes define how we socialize with partners and friends in our adulthood. The things that break or glue us together. The necessary and unnecessary exchanges. Those words that shouldn't come out but still do.
The little fights that aren't so little.
Need a laugh on a quiet weekend afternoon? This is the read.
May 23, 2026
Enjoyed the stories esp 17.
Bottom line healing /understanding your childhood will save you a lot in your adult relationships💯
Bottom line healing /understanding your childhood will save you a lot in your adult relationships💯
December 2, 2025
The short stories are a bit too shallow, the fact that all the characters in the story go by one name makes it even harder to connect with the stories. some of these stories arent even about fights.
November 26, 2025
Biko is such a witty writer. Anything Biko, count me in!
I loved how this book was both light and heavy, after each story one is left stewing in that duality.
No pressure sir, but we need a novel at this rate. Please & thanks ;)
I loved how this book was both light and heavy, after each story one is left stewing in that duality.
No pressure sir, but we need a novel at this rate. Please & thanks ;)
October 4, 2026
Big Little Fights by Jackson Biko is an entertaining collection of stories about relationships, ego, love, insecurities and the often ridiculous ways people navigate them. Not every story worked equally well for me, but the stronger ones had that trademark Biko combination of humour, irony and uncomfortable truths.
“The One Where I Almost Missed My Goddamn Dinner” and “The One With My Mother and Wife” were easily my favourites in Big Little Fights. The former really got me because Biko completely changed my allegiance halfway through. At first, I was firmly on Rose’s side: her father has died, she is grieving, and Ian comes across as spectacularly insensitive, even selfish, about the whole situation. But as Rose’s behaviour unfolds, the sympathy becomes complicated, and suddenly I found myself questioning her as well. That emotional bait-and-switch is what made the story work for me. It becomes less about the missed dinner and more about grief, resentment, old wounds and two people who seem incapable of experiencing the same situation in the same way. And that final thought—that Ian is sometimes relieved when he isn't talking to his wife—is brutal. A seemingly little fight revealing something enormous underneath.
“The One With My Mother and Wife” was my other standout because of the painfully familiar territory it explores—the man caught between his mother and his wife. What makes it work is that the conflict isn't really about the individual things they argue over; it is about loyalty, boundaries, control and the struggle to move from being a son to being a husband without betraying either role. These two stories, for me, best captured what the title Big Little Fights is all about: seemingly trivial battles that expose much bigger things happening underneath.
I also found “The One About Her Drinking” worth mentioning for the way it explores alcoholism and how it can quietly complicate intimacy and relationships. “The One About the Captain of the Dhow” similarly digs into insecurities in relationships, showing how much of our conflict can come from what we fear, rather than what is actually happening. I also loved Biko’s humour in the story, especially the absurd power bank the size of a loaf of bread that ends up hitting Rose on the toe—the kind of ridiculous detail that makes his characters feel wonderfully real. The arguments are funny, but underneath them is a serious question about where family ends and a marriage begins. Overall, the collection is a mixed bag, but there are enough hilarious, thought-provoking and painfully relatable stories to make Big Little Fights an enjoyable read.
“The One Where I Almost Missed My Goddamn Dinner” and “The One With My Mother and Wife” were easily my favourites in Big Little Fights. The former really got me because Biko completely changed my allegiance halfway through. At first, I was firmly on Rose’s side: her father has died, she is grieving, and Ian comes across as spectacularly insensitive, even selfish, about the whole situation. But as Rose’s behaviour unfolds, the sympathy becomes complicated, and suddenly I found myself questioning her as well. That emotional bait-and-switch is what made the story work for me. It becomes less about the missed dinner and more about grief, resentment, old wounds and two people who seem incapable of experiencing the same situation in the same way. And that final thought—that Ian is sometimes relieved when he isn't talking to his wife—is brutal. A seemingly little fight revealing something enormous underneath.
“The One With My Mother and Wife” was my other standout because of the painfully familiar territory it explores—the man caught between his mother and his wife. What makes it work is that the conflict isn't really about the individual things they argue over; it is about loyalty, boundaries, control and the struggle to move from being a son to being a husband without betraying either role. These two stories, for me, best captured what the title Big Little Fights is all about: seemingly trivial battles that expose much bigger things happening underneath.
I also found “The One About Her Drinking” worth mentioning for the way it explores alcoholism and how it can quietly complicate intimacy and relationships. “The One About the Captain of the Dhow” similarly digs into insecurities in relationships, showing how much of our conflict can come from what we fear, rather than what is actually happening. I also loved Biko’s humour in the story, especially the absurd power bank the size of a loaf of bread that ends up hitting Rose on the toe—the kind of ridiculous detail that makes his characters feel wonderfully real. The arguments are funny, but underneath them is a serious question about where family ends and a marriage begins. Overall, the collection is a mixed bag, but there are enough hilarious, thought-provoking and painfully relatable stories to make Big Little Fights an enjoyable read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2025
Big Little Fights by Jackson Biko was such an easy and enjoyable read. The book flows effortlessly, making it perfect for light reading, yet it still captures very real moments from everyday relationships.
What truly stood out for me was the humour — the book is genuinely funny, clever, and full of wit. Jackson Biko has a way of turning ordinary misunderstandings and small arguments into laugh-out-loud moments that feel painfully familiar. The stories are relatable, honest, and told with so much personality that you can’t help but smile, even when the situations are messy.
I especially loved the way the book presents different stories within the “big little fights.” Each one has its own charm, and it was easy to pick favourites along the way. Some stories stood out more than others, but overall, the collection works because of its consistency in tone and humour.
If you’re looking for a book that doesn’t feel heavy, makes you laugh, and still reflects the realities of relationships, Big Little Fights is definitely worth picking up.
What truly stood out for me was the humour — the book is genuinely funny, clever, and full of wit. Jackson Biko has a way of turning ordinary misunderstandings and small arguments into laugh-out-loud moments that feel painfully familiar. The stories are relatable, honest, and told with so much personality that you can’t help but smile, even when the situations are messy.
I especially loved the way the book presents different stories within the “big little fights.” Each one has its own charm, and it was easy to pick favourites along the way. Some stories stood out more than others, but overall, the collection works because of its consistency in tone and humour.
If you’re looking for a book that doesn’t feel heavy, makes you laugh, and still reflects the realities of relationships, Big Little Fights is definitely worth picking up.
April 1, 2026
Big Little Fights is exactly what the title promises: a curated collection of small fights that quietly snowball into something much bigger.
The self-awareness is so sharp it becomes its own kind of comedy. Sometimes it had me dead on the floor laughing 😅. The writing shows rather than tells, and the self-sabotage is particularly handled beautifully. We see characters undermining their own happiness in real time, fully aware but unable to stop. Jackson Biko perfectly captures that internal tug-of-war of human psychology, the messy gap between our logic and our impulses. And we see the consequences of "knowing better but doing it anyway." That is exactly what makes this book exceptional.
I am a sucker for sharp, hilarious writing and this book had me in a chokehold. This is the book you buy for yourself and then immediately think of five people to give it to. I read it in one sitting. Cover to cover. And will be reading it again. Highly recommend.
The self-awareness is so sharp it becomes its own kind of comedy. Sometimes it had me dead on the floor laughing 😅. The writing shows rather than tells, and the self-sabotage is particularly handled beautifully. We see characters undermining their own happiness in real time, fully aware but unable to stop. Jackson Biko perfectly captures that internal tug-of-war of human psychology, the messy gap between our logic and our impulses. And we see the consequences of "knowing better but doing it anyway." That is exactly what makes this book exceptional.
I am a sucker for sharp, hilarious writing and this book had me in a chokehold. This is the book you buy for yourself and then immediately think of five people to give it to. I read it in one sitting. Cover to cover. And will be reading it again. Highly recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2026
Jackson Biko, what an author! He only needed a novella to deliver mega lessons. I was almost going into a reading slump till I picked up this book, might be the best decision I've made so far this year.
The short stories are both heavy and light. I don't remember reading something so relatable. truly we're all Thorns, oh sorry I mean Ians and Roses.
A Witty, attention capturing, vivid and resplendent book. I'm definitely going to read all his other books.
Another thing, there are hidden gems in terms of hotels and resorts that you can try out by yourself or your loved ones after reading this book.
Oh and Biko, I still want to know how you, or they, broke their leg.
And to my future husband, I'm really sorry in advance because I'm a terrible driver but at least I'm not incorrigible. Hopefully that will save our marriage.
The short stories are both heavy and light. I don't remember reading something so relatable. truly we're all Thorns, oh sorry I mean Ians and Roses.
A Witty, attention capturing, vivid and resplendent book. I'm definitely going to read all his other books.
Another thing, there are hidden gems in terms of hotels and resorts that you can try out by yourself or your loved ones after reading this book.
Oh and Biko, I still want to know how you, or they, broke their leg.
And to my future husband, I'm really sorry in advance because I'm a terrible driver but at least I'm not incorrigible. Hopefully that will save our marriage.
January 15, 2026
I quite enjoyed the short stories. Some more than others. Some for the fights. Some for the writing. Some because I related to them. Some for their endings. Some because they made me chuckle. Some because they made me reflect.
"I know these are stories about fights and I should get into it. The only problem is we don't fight. We don't fight because we are so different there is nothing to fight about. We are different economically... Intellectually, we are chalk and cheese... So, we don't fight. We don't fight because at what point could our intelligence converge for us to clash? How do you fight when your conversations are banal and non-revelatory? Fighting needs emotional investment, you have to care enough about the other person's viewpoint to fight them over it."
"I know these are stories about fights and I should get into it. The only problem is we don't fight. We don't fight because we are so different there is nothing to fight about. We are different economically... Intellectually, we are chalk and cheese... So, we don't fight. We don't fight because at what point could our intelligence converge for us to clash? How do you fight when your conversations are banal and non-revelatory? Fighting needs emotional investment, you have to care enough about the other person's viewpoint to fight them over it."
July 23, 2026
An entertaining, witty, and fun-to-read book that may or may not make you consider therapy to trace why you handle adult relationships the way you do 😂
It's a blend of a lighthearted and inner-reflective kind of book, full of short stories following different couples and their relationship dynamics.
There are some unrelated snippets after each story of how other people's childhoods shape their now-adulthood relationships.
If I was to summarize it: The stories in this book will prove to you how much our childhood conditioning secretly shapes the way we communicate, handle conflict, and navigate intimacy as adults.
NGL it pushed me into some unexpected realizations about my own relational patterns.
10/10 recommend 👌
It's a blend of a lighthearted and inner-reflective kind of book, full of short stories following different couples and their relationship dynamics.
There are some unrelated snippets after each story of how other people's childhoods shape their now-adulthood relationships.
If I was to summarize it: The stories in this book will prove to you how much our childhood conditioning secretly shapes the way we communicate, handle conflict, and navigate intimacy as adults.
NGL it pushed me into some unexpected realizations about my own relational patterns.
10/10 recommend 👌
December 27, 2025
I really enjoyed this collection of short stories on the big little fights couples have at various stages of their relationships. Funny, insightful, and so many lessons to take - the main one being the importance of communication, and knowing when to back down/stand up for yourself and your partner.
Jackson is a hilarious writer, and loved the beginning tidbit on Kangaroos invading Rwanda. That randomness reminded me of Douglas Adams’ - The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. A huge compliment, as that’s my all time favourite fiction book! Also found it funny that all the men were named Ian and women - Rose.
Will definitely be recommending this one to friends!
Jackson is a hilarious writer, and loved the beginning tidbit on Kangaroos invading Rwanda. That randomness reminded me of Douglas Adams’ - The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. A huge compliment, as that’s my all time favourite fiction book! Also found it funny that all the men were named Ian and women - Rose.
Will definitely be recommending this one to friends!
January 27, 2026
Big Little Fights is a collection of 20 short stories recounting the small and not so small fights that unfold in romantic relationships. I’ll admit Jackson Biko’s writing is a breath of fresh air. His delivery is stunning; I was cackling from the prologue. He has a sharp, effortless humour that pulls you in immediately.
That said, I didn’t enjoy the book as much as I expected to. I think that has more to do with me than the writing, I’m just not the biggest fan of short stories. Still, it’s a refreshing read, filled with deeply relatable moments.
At the end of the day, we’re all just “Roses and Ians, stumbling through life.”
That said, I didn’t enjoy the book as much as I expected to. I think that has more to do with me than the writing, I’m just not the biggest fan of short stories. Still, it’s a refreshing read, filled with deeply relatable moments.
At the end of the day, we’re all just “Roses and Ians, stumbling through life.”
June 21, 2026
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Most ludicrous story : The one about a banana
Relationships though 😂
No one can dispute that Jackson Biko is a talented writer. His storytelling is warm, witty, and deeply Kenyan, making many of these stories incredibly relatable.
Some stories, though, fell flat almost as if they were included simply to fill a gap and lacked the depth and spark that make Biko’s writing so memorable.
Overall, an enjoyable read with moments of brilliance, and some key warnings on why being in a relationship is not such a good idea 😂🙈
Most ludicrous story : The one about a banana
Relationships though 😂
No one can dispute that Jackson Biko is a talented writer. His storytelling is warm, witty, and deeply Kenyan, making many of these stories incredibly relatable.
Some stories, though, fell flat almost as if they were included simply to fill a gap and lacked the depth and spark that make Biko’s writing so memorable.
Overall, an enjoyable read with moments of brilliance, and some key warnings on why being in a relationship is not such a good idea 😂🙈
February 20, 2026
"I once dated a guy who was truly terrible in bed. His actual bed, though? That was a great bed."
Big Little Fights by Jackson Biko is a beautifully written collection of short stories that feels both intimate and familiar. Biko has a way of capturing the quiet tensions, humor, and emotional complexity of everyday relationships without overdramatizing them.
A compelling, easy read that lingers long after the last page.
Big Little Fights by Jackson Biko is a beautifully written collection of short stories that feels both intimate and familiar. Biko has a way of capturing the quiet tensions, humor, and emotional complexity of everyday relationships without overdramatizing them.
A compelling, easy read that lingers long after the last page.
June 14, 2026
As usual, Jackson Biko can really keep you enthralled with his writing, and I appreciate that blessing immensely.
This book though hit me at 3.5⭐️s I don’t know why but it took me ages and constantly falling asleep to finish. I don’t know why or what these stories didn’t hit as the first half of the book or maybe I read it while tired. But I would still encourage people to invest time to read Biko’s works!
This book though hit me at 3.5⭐️s I don’t know why but it took me ages and constantly falling asleep to finish. I don’t know why or what these stories didn’t hit as the first half of the book or maybe I read it while tired. But I would still encourage people to invest time to read Biko’s works!
March 6, 2026
Finished reading this one I loved it just like the title the book is about fight people have in a relationship the good one and bad ones. It is a collection of 20 stories some will make your cry but most of them will make you laugh out loud. Here are three favorites
1. The one where spice makes nice
2. The one where God visit him in his hotel room
3. The one at the wedding
1. The one where spice makes nice
2. The one where God visit him in his hotel room
3. The one at the wedding
March 27, 2026
Some stories are hilarious - I think it is the sarcasm, and the shocking descriptions (a guy who looks like a buffalo) and for sure the unnecessary details the that have no relation to the story 🤣 ...and those will have you bursting out loudly! (My mother opens her own doors because my father died).
Totally fantastic read to unwind.
Totally fantastic read to unwind.
April 9, 2026
Just finished Big Little Fights by Jackson Biko and I honestly really enjoyed it. What I loved most was how relatable so many of the stories felt messy, human, funny, frustrating, and very real. It was one of those books that just hooks you because you keep seeing little bits of real life and real people in it. Such an easy, engaging read.
August 6, 2026
"I once dated a guy who was truly terrible in bed. His actual bed though, that was a great bed." Lol Biko.
A fun & witty collection of short stories about the small and not so small fights in romantic relationships and how our childhoods affect how we show up as adults.
I enjoyed most of them but some missed the mark & felt more like filler stories. Overall an enjoyable read perfect for a Sunday afternoon.
A fun & witty collection of short stories about the small and not so small fights in romantic relationships and how our childhoods affect how we show up as adults.
I enjoyed most of them but some missed the mark & felt more like filler stories. Overall an enjoyable read perfect for a Sunday afternoon.
November 23, 2025
Someone tell Biko that I don’t enjoy how he takes ages to publish and when he does, he just gives me 10 pages of bliss. It’s not fair, he needs to be arrested. I loved this book. I’d read it over and over again. Gosh Biko, please give us another one in 2026!
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