What do you think?
A Small Memory
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 11, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
August 23, 2026
This story is a moving look at friendship and how the future can forever be changed in a blink. At its heart are two unlikely friends whose bond is tested by a painful event, the healing and the renewed - and new - friendship after. Mike and Ted and their families don't get over what happened, but they learn to live with, and make the most of, this new reality.
I highly recommend 'A Small Memory' to anyone who is looking for a story about deep and abiding friendship, resilience, and the importance of standing those we love. Everyone deserves a friendship like Mike's and Ted's.
I highly recommend 'A Small Memory' to anyone who is looking for a story about deep and abiding friendship, resilience, and the importance of standing those we love. Everyone deserves a friendship like Mike's and Ted's.
Read
August 10, 2026“A Small Memory” is a very good read about loyalty, sacrifice and friendship. The author easily captured my attention in telling this story from the beginning to the end.
August 10, 2026
I couldn’t put it down! Such a good book!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Small Memory by Robert Dyer is a very highly recommended coming-of-age novel about friendship, forgiveness, memories, and recovery from trauma. This is an exceptionally well-written novel that captures a moment in time that completely changes two lives.
In 1975, Mike Youngstown is eighteen, fresh out of high school, and headed to Appleton College in Morrison Ohio for classes and to play basketball. His best friend Ted Dirksen who is older than him and already attending college, has a great offer for Mike. Ted's roommate is leaving and Mike can take his place as a counselor at the group home for developmentally disabled adult men. They get room, board and a small salary while teaching the men, Stuart, Mark, Paul, John, Kevin, and Henry, the basic skills to live on their own. They all have jobs during the day and go home on the weekends.
After several incidents involving Henry, one where Mike had to pull him off Ted, he is replaced by Ray. It is immediately clear that Ray doesn't get along with the other residents and has a violent temper which is demonstrated when he threatens Ted with a screw driver and Mike had to restrain him. The Hope Agency Executive Director, Brad Douglas dismisses their concerns. Then Mike returns home one weekend night and finds Ted seriously injured and Ray, who does not go home on weekends, is gone, along with Ted's car. Ted is left in a coma.
Ted's injury and gradual recovery marks the start of an emotionally charged, nuanced, thoughtful and insightful examination of friendship, forgiveness, memories, and blame. Their easy, well established friendship is displayed early in the novel, so we know what Mike has lost. He is there for Ted and his parents as the long road to recovery begins. Mike is at the hospital daily and blames himself for Ted's attack. He is sure he could have stopped it if he was there and carries the huge burden of guilt that grows and even threatens his relationship with his long time girlfriend, Karen.
The unreserved honesty of Mike's psychological state is clearly and honestly portrayed as he realizes he has lost the previously comfortable ease of his friendship with Ted. He also needs to undertake the enormous task of forgiving himself, along with others. With the change of Ted, their previous relationship has died, so he is in mourning for what was, even as he works toward a new relationship and friendship with Ted as he slowly recovers. He also needs to heal his relationship with Karen, which he set aside after Ted's injury.
What makes this an especially poignant narrative is the youth and future potential of these two young men who are portrayed as realistic characters. Mike is only eighteen when this happened and not yet fully matured. Ted's loss of capacity marks a sudden propulsion into maturity and an increase of responsibility for Mike. At the same time, Mike is continually struggling with blaming himself/forgiving himself while still trying to do his best. This reads like a real life experience.
A Small Memory is an excellent choice for those who appreciate coming-of-age stories depicting life-changing events. Thanks to Atmosphere Press for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/0...
In 1975, Mike Youngstown is eighteen, fresh out of high school, and headed to Appleton College in Morrison Ohio for classes and to play basketball. His best friend Ted Dirksen who is older than him and already attending college, has a great offer for Mike. Ted's roommate is leaving and Mike can take his place as a counselor at the group home for developmentally disabled adult men. They get room, board and a small salary while teaching the men, Stuart, Mark, Paul, John, Kevin, and Henry, the basic skills to live on their own. They all have jobs during the day and go home on the weekends.
After several incidents involving Henry, one where Mike had to pull him off Ted, he is replaced by Ray. It is immediately clear that Ray doesn't get along with the other residents and has a violent temper which is demonstrated when he threatens Ted with a screw driver and Mike had to restrain him. The Hope Agency Executive Director, Brad Douglas dismisses their concerns. Then Mike returns home one weekend night and finds Ted seriously injured and Ray, who does not go home on weekends, is gone, along with Ted's car. Ted is left in a coma.
Ted's injury and gradual recovery marks the start of an emotionally charged, nuanced, thoughtful and insightful examination of friendship, forgiveness, memories, and blame. Their easy, well established friendship is displayed early in the novel, so we know what Mike has lost. He is there for Ted and his parents as the long road to recovery begins. Mike is at the hospital daily and blames himself for Ted's attack. He is sure he could have stopped it if he was there and carries the huge burden of guilt that grows and even threatens his relationship with his long time girlfriend, Karen.
The unreserved honesty of Mike's psychological state is clearly and honestly portrayed as he realizes he has lost the previously comfortable ease of his friendship with Ted. He also needs to undertake the enormous task of forgiving himself, along with others. With the change of Ted, their previous relationship has died, so he is in mourning for what was, even as he works toward a new relationship and friendship with Ted as he slowly recovers. He also needs to heal his relationship with Karen, which he set aside after Ted's injury.
What makes this an especially poignant narrative is the youth and future potential of these two young men who are portrayed as realistic characters. Mike is only eighteen when this happened and not yet fully matured. Ted's loss of capacity marks a sudden propulsion into maturity and an increase of responsibility for Mike. At the same time, Mike is continually struggling with blaming himself/forgiving himself while still trying to do his best. This reads like a real life experience.
A Small Memory is an excellent choice for those who appreciate coming-of-age stories depicting life-changing events. Thanks to Atmosphere Press for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/0...
Review of advance copy received from Author
Robert Dyer’s A Small Memory is a heartfelt coming-of-age novel about friendship, responsibility, and the lasting effects of trauma. Set in Ohio during the 1970s, it follows Mike Youngstown, an eighteen-year-old college basketball player who moves into a group home with his best friend, Ted Dirksen. The two young men work as live-in counselors for adults with intellectual disabilities while balancing school, relationships, and their first real taste of independence. Their arrangement begins as an exciting new chapter, but it becomes far more demanding after Ray, a troubled new resident, enters the home.
The relationship between Mike and Ted gives the novel its emotional center. They tease each other constantly, compete over everything, and communicate with the ease of people who’ve known each other for years. Beneath the jokes, though, there’s genuine devotion. Early in the book, Ted tells Mike, “We’re in this together,” a simple statement that becomes increasingly meaningful as their lives change. Dyer makes their friendship feel lived-in through private nicknames, late-night conversations, petty arguments, and small acts of loyalty. Because that bond is established so carefully, the later scenes carry real emotional force.
The group home setting also gives the story warmth and depth. Stuart, Mark, Paul, John, Kevin, and Ray aren’t treated as a single interchangeable group. Each has his own habits, fears, abilities, and relationships. One especially revealing moment comes when Stuart resists a job promotion because he’s afraid success will separate him from his friends. He finally admits, “I don’t want to be alone.” Moments like this show how independence can be both a goal and a frightening prospect. They also push Mike to become more patient and observant, even when his confidence tells him he already understands the people around him.
Mike’s narration is direct, energetic, and emotionally open. He can be protective and generous, but he’s also impulsive, stubborn, and convinced that determination can solve nearly anything. After Ted suffers a devastating brain injury, that confidence turns into guilt and a desperate desire to repair what has been damaged. The second half of the novel follows Mike as he tries to support Ted’s recovery while holding on to basketball, college, and his relationship with Karen. At times Mike’s thoughts circle repeatedly around blame and forgiveness, but that repetition suits a character who can’t simply reason his way out of grief. His growth comes from learning that caring for someone doesn’t always mean controlling what happens to them.
A Small Memory is a tender story about the many forms friendship can take after life changes it. Its most affecting scenes are often quiet ones, such as a returned hug, a remembered nickname, or a familiar joke emerging through confusion. The novel handles painful material with compassion while still making room for humor, romance, and the ordinary messiness of college life. Dyer’s book asks what it means to remain loyal when a person can no longer return to the life everyone expected for them. Mike’s answer isn’t perfect, but it’s deeply human: he stays, adapts, and keeps choosing the friendship they built together.
The relationship between Mike and Ted gives the novel its emotional center. They tease each other constantly, compete over everything, and communicate with the ease of people who’ve known each other for years. Beneath the jokes, though, there’s genuine devotion. Early in the book, Ted tells Mike, “We’re in this together,” a simple statement that becomes increasingly meaningful as their lives change. Dyer makes their friendship feel lived-in through private nicknames, late-night conversations, petty arguments, and small acts of loyalty. Because that bond is established so carefully, the later scenes carry real emotional force.
The group home setting also gives the story warmth and depth. Stuart, Mark, Paul, John, Kevin, and Ray aren’t treated as a single interchangeable group. Each has his own habits, fears, abilities, and relationships. One especially revealing moment comes when Stuart resists a job promotion because he’s afraid success will separate him from his friends. He finally admits, “I don’t want to be alone.” Moments like this show how independence can be both a goal and a frightening prospect. They also push Mike to become more patient and observant, even when his confidence tells him he already understands the people around him.
Mike’s narration is direct, energetic, and emotionally open. He can be protective and generous, but he’s also impulsive, stubborn, and convinced that determination can solve nearly anything. After Ted suffers a devastating brain injury, that confidence turns into guilt and a desperate desire to repair what has been damaged. The second half of the novel follows Mike as he tries to support Ted’s recovery while holding on to basketball, college, and his relationship with Karen. At times Mike’s thoughts circle repeatedly around blame and forgiveness, but that repetition suits a character who can’t simply reason his way out of grief. His growth comes from learning that caring for someone doesn’t always mean controlling what happens to them.
A Small Memory is a tender story about the many forms friendship can take after life changes it. Its most affecting scenes are often quiet ones, such as a returned hug, a remembered nickname, or a familiar joke emerging through confusion. The novel handles painful material with compassion while still making room for humor, romance, and the ordinary messiness of college life. Dyer’s book asks what it means to remain loyal when a person can no longer return to the life everyone expected for them. Mike’s answer isn’t perfect, but it’s deeply human: he stays, adapts, and keeps choosing the friendship they built together.
September 1, 2026
I highly recommend this book. The heart of the story is the deep friendship between the two main characters. It reflects how the friendships we form in our school years are often the closest. But these two young men have to face a trauma that would be difficult to handle at a more mature age, when Mike's best friend Ted is brutally attacked. Mike tries to come to terms with his feelings of anger and his desire for revenge toward Ted's attacker. He gradually sees the world is not black and white, and that forgiveness is healthier than anger and hate. You might call this a coming of age story, but it will also appeal to anyone who has had to struggle with a loved one's trauma or their own feelings of anger at the injustice of life, and how to come to terms with it. I have recommended this novel to my friends. The heart of this story is loyalty and affection, and it left me with a good feeling after reading it.
Review of advance copy
I enjoyed reading the new book “A Small Memory,” by Robert Dyer. The book offers a reflection of two young college men who build a unique friendship that is tested through tragedy. We are taken to a time when group homes were a new concept and working with adults with intellectual disabilities was trial and error. As the main character is learning to navigate work, college, basketball, a high school girlfriend and basically, being 18 years old; his bedrock is his friend, Teddy.
The author takes us through many “small moments” that help the reader be there too, (almost like I was going through freshman year all over again). And, as we learn, small moments become turning points for the rest of our lives. An interesting, engaging read!
The author takes us through many “small moments” that help the reader be there too, (almost like I was going through freshman year all over again). And, as we learn, small moments become turning points for the rest of our lives. An interesting, engaging read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was able to obtain a prerelease copy of the book from the author. I was so eager to read it because I am familiar with the author's personality, thoughts and writing style. I was not disappointed. I felt that I really knew and understood each of the characters in the book from the main characters to the brothers, parents, girlfriend and to the troubled young men in the group home. Being an educator that worked with troubled youth for over 40 years, it resonated with me. Thankfully we have developed better ways to service our troubled youth and trauma victims over the years. "A Small Memory" is a must read for those that value hope, memories, strength of family, resilience and friendship.
August 17, 2026
I really enjoyed this compelling story about best friends, Mike and Ted, whose relationship is completely redefined after a tragic accident that leaves Ted in a coma. The main through-line of the novel follows Mike's emotional journey as he learns to deal with his guilt and anger for what happened to Ted and how to remain hopeful despite the possibility that Ted may never regain his memory fully. What impressed me most was how the novel read like a classic, especially with its prose that is beautifully direct. On top of that, the dialogue is absolutely believable, the pacing is just right, and the brooding plot leads to a very satisfying end. If you want to be moved deeply by a book, read this one.
August 30, 2026
A Beautiful, Emotional, and Unforgettable Read
A Small Memory is so much more than a book—it is an incredibly personal and emotional journey that stays with you long after you turn the final page. From beginning to end, I found myself completely drawn into the story, experiencing the emotions, memories, struggles, and moments that make this memoir so powerful.
A Small Memory is heartfelt, sincere, moving, and beautifully written. It is the kind of book that makes you stop, think, remember, and appreciate the people and moments that have shaped your own life.
I highly recommend this memoir to anyone who enjoys meaningful stories that come from the heart.
A Small Memory is so much more than a book—it is an incredibly personal and emotional journey that stays with you long after you turn the final page. From beginning to end, I found myself completely drawn into the story, experiencing the emotions, memories, struggles, and moments that make this memoir so powerful.
A Small Memory is heartfelt, sincere, moving, and beautifully written. It is the kind of book that makes you stop, think, remember, and appreciate the people and moments that have shaped your own life.
I highly recommend this memoir to anyone who enjoys meaningful stories that come from the heart.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is definitely not a normal read for me. It was PHENOMENAL! I will definitely be recommending this to everyone. It had me in my feels. Best friends would go through some ROUGH experiences. Ted loses some of his memories but his best friend Mike stays by his side and they try to find their new norm. My only "complaint" was the nick names for the friends. It kind of took me out of it just a bit. So not sure if that will bother any other readers, but if it does, STICK WITH THE STORY
August 27, 2026
Mike and Ted, two college friends, work at a group home. One day a client assaults Ted. The book traces Mike's journey through Ted's rehabilitation. Struggling with guilt, he seeks to find ways to assist with Ted's recovery. But he has other responsibilities to manage at the same time: school, basketball, plus a girlfriend.
This book discussed the inner struggles that haunt Mike and the dedication one friend has to another.
This book discussed the inner struggles that haunt Mike and the dedication one friend has to another.
September 1, 2026
This novel was obviously written as a labor of love. The story line flows beautifully as the characters’ friendship and lives evolve. The reader is able to truly know Mike and Ted. What begins as a transition from high school to college and the anticipation of independence and adulthood, changes in the blink of an eye when Ted is violently attacked. The author’s words describe Mike’s emotions with such clarity. You are right there with him. It is a fine read about true friendship.
September 3, 2026
What a story! Once I began reading this book, I couldn't wait to learn how it ended and yet I didn't want it to end because the storyline was so captivating. I felt like Ted and Mike were old friends and I enjoyed checking in on them every day to see how life was treating them. I had to make myself slow down and savor each chapter. I wonder how I would have handled a similar situation in my twenties or how I would deal with it now. I honestly don't know. I highly recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Small Memory is the kind of story that stays with you long after you've finished the last page. Robert Dyer creates believable characters and lets their emotions unfold naturally, making it easy to become invested in their journey. I especially appreciated the attention to the smaller moments, which gave the story a sense of authenticity and heart.
August 26, 2026
Thank you Atmosphere Press and NetGalley for this ARC.
This was a powerful read about friendship, memories, forgiveness and trauma.
It is well written and the story flows well. It set in Ohio is the 1970s and I really enjoyed the setting of the story. I appreciate that the story os focusing on male friendship.
This was a powerful read about friendship, memories, forgiveness and trauma.
It is well written and the story flows well. It set in Ohio is the 1970s and I really enjoyed the setting of the story. I appreciate that the story os focusing on male friendship.
September 1, 2026
The book is about the strength of friendship that has been tested by trauma. It really pulls you in and makes you want to continue reading to see what happens between the main characters. Normally the books about friendships are about women. I like how this is about the love of friendship between men which is not talked about.
September 2, 2026
I enjoyed reading this book very much. I especially liked the in depth details about each of the two main characters. The characters stayed with me days after reading the story of devoted friendship. The book was an easy and refreshing read. I highly recommend it.
September 3, 2026
This book really makes you stop and think about a situation before you react. Your life and others can change in an instant. This a great story about true friendship and love. I laughed and I cried, it makes you stop and think about your own life.
September 17, 2026
The book was captivating in outlining true friendship that endured years of hardship. Some friendship last a short time and some last a lifetime. This one was obviously was the lifetime kind. The characters were well developed and came to life. Enjoyed the book!
August 20, 2026
I loved it! It’s a real page turner. I literally couldn’t put it down. I finished it in a weekend!
September 16, 2026
Wonderful story. Well told/written. It was very easy to relate to the characters.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews