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The Great & the Small
Deep below the market, in the dark tunnels no human knows exist, a war has begun. Led by the charismatic Beloved Chairman, a colony of rats plots to exterminate the ugly two-legs who have tortured them in labs, crushed them with boots, and looked at them with disgust for as long as anyone can remember.
When the Chairman's nephew is injured and a young two-leg nurses him back to health, however, doubt about the war creeps in. Now the colony is split--obey the Chairman and infect the two-legs with the ancient sickness passed down from the Old Ones, or do the unthinkable...
Rebel.
When the Chairman's nephew is injured and a young two-leg nurses him back to health, however, doubt about the war creeps in. Now the colony is split--obey the Chairman and infect the two-legs with the ancient sickness passed down from the Old Ones, or do the unthinkable...
Rebel.
294 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2017
71 people want to read
About the author
A.T. Balsara
1 book29 followersA.T. Balsara* is an award-winning children's and young adult author/illustrator, motivational speaker, and energy medicine practitioner. Her passion is to inspire joy through storytelling and energy healing, helping young people and adults to walk “the Hero’s Journey” in real life. She writes and illustrates for young children under her full name, Andrea Torrey Balsara, and for young adults under A.T. Balsara.
Andrea is also a painter, an explorer of quantum physics, and a keen environmentalist. She advocates for the humane treatment of animals and regularly volunteers at a donkey sanctuary where she uses energy medicine to help previously neglected and abused animals regain their health and vitality.
Connect with Andrea at: www.torreybalsara.com
https://facebook.com/AndreaTorreyBals...
http://instagram.com/andreatorreybals...
https://www.twitter.com/torreybalsara/
www.amazon.com/author/a.t.balsara
*please note, Andrea has a second Goodreads account under her full name, Andrea Torrey Balsara.
Andrea is also a painter, an explorer of quantum physics, and a keen environmentalist. She advocates for the humane treatment of animals and regularly volunteers at a donkey sanctuary where she uses energy medicine to help previously neglected and abused animals regain their health and vitality.
Connect with Andrea at: www.torreybalsara.com
https://facebook.com/AndreaTorreyBals...
http://instagram.com/andreatorreybals...
https://www.twitter.com/torreybalsara/
www.amazon.com/author/a.t.balsara
*please note, Andrea has a second Goodreads account under her full name, Andrea Torrey Balsara.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
June 20, 2021
2021 Update
So this aged very well and very poorly at the same time.
TL:DR - Fascism and pandemics suck.
I just received my copy of The Great and Small sent straight from the author herself! Thank you so much <3
Does this image disturb you? Well, read on. Because it's time we've faced our past. But here are some pretty neat illustrations by the author that need to be shared, too.
Get your popcorn and hot chocolate reading, because this is going to be a review ofgrandiosity and epic proportions that will change the world as we know it Kidding, this is just my ramble about why you need to read this book NOW. (Good books sometimes deserve long reviews. Please read it. This author needs support). And besides it took me three hours to write and edit, damn it.
“The rat dug a burrow in the most remote area of the Lower Tunnels that she could find. She dug feverishly, using tooth and claw, feeling as she did that eyes watched her from behind. Her baby was curled up, asleep – a blessing. Expecting at every moment to feel long, curved teeth sink into her shoulder. She shuddered, making her fur ripple up and down her back...Uppers still held the bodies of her other pups. They lay scattered around like dried leaves”'
There’s a lot of tonal dissonance in this book. It’s frightfully violent at times, with a simple middle-school level plot that’s executed quite well. In short, exactly what I would have freaking loved as a reader of disturbing books at 14 years old.I read The Shining in 8th grade and I loved it.
This book made me glad that I saved a baby rat from my cat.
This review will be quite comprehensive because I have a lot to say about this fantastic book. Although this book is a often an allegory of Stalin’s purges within his government, spiced up by the return of the Black Death.
The premise
“Every rat is equal! Every nest for all”
The premise is quite complex, especially because of the rat hierarchy. Fin is a “pup” (teenage rat) whose mother and siblings were killed right after his birth. He was taken under the wing of PapaStalin, the Dictator of the “Tunnels”. The rats have become lethargic and sick to the core about how humans treat them – for experiments and for trapping. And so they decide to spread the Plague. Things only get more complex as the “Uppers” (government rats) get nasty and Fin begins to interact with a human. So here are some important terms to understand to show how fun the book is:
The Council: These refer to the top rats that follow Stalin Papa with total and utterly loyalty. Except for some who oppose, who realise how mad and power-hungry Papa is.
Tunnel Rats: These refer to all the rats who live under Papa’s domain.
Two-legs: Humans.
Plague Rats: Kamikaze Volunteer and Voluntold rats who are purposefully stricken with the “Great Dying” from long ago so that they may bite and spread the disease to two-legs.
There’s a rich, thick layer of lore regarding the Black Plague that the rats both treasure and despise.
On the other side of town we have Ananda, a half-Indian girl who is perpetually ostracized from her school because of her colour and love for the other. And what I mean by that is that she loves books, drawing and being alone.
The characters: Tunnelsnakes rats rule
Fin: “I loved Pip because he was as tiny as a seed. Seeds can grow into strong trees.”. Fin is blindly loyal to Papa Stalin as he was raised by him, but he starts to see the truth. He is the protagonist in our story.
Papa: “Gratitude is a dog’s disease.”/”Of course you are a good Tunnel Rat. You are my nephew.” PapaStalin is the creepy, slick black patriarch of the rats. He honestly sent tingles up my spine. But he is haunted by deeds done in his disturbing past as well as his horrific present.
Ananda: “Ananda breathed in and smiled, tucking her hair behind her ear. This was one of those little secrets between Ananda and her dad; they’d often sneak more books into the house even though Ananda’s mouther, Perrin, had pronounced a moratorium on buying books until they’d read the ones they already had at home, waiting to be unpacked.” Ananda was a bit of a boring character for me. She’s your typical nerdy teenage girl, who gets ostracized as I mentioned. Obviously saving a rat twice and nursing it back to health during the Bubonic Plague isn’t exactly smart but she’s got heart. Ananda also crushes on a girl named George, but nothing ever comes to fruition between them since George is so heavily underdeveloped.
Scratch: “But he said slow, “It means I was watching the two-legs, seeing what traps they were setting for us. So, I was helping the Tunnels.” Scratch looked puzzled. “The rules said we can’t go in the two-leg territory.” Explained Fin. “Two-legs don’t run under the ceiling.” Hope flickered in Scratches eyes. “That’s good, Fin!” Scratch begins as a brain-washed rat who only follows the ways of the Tunnel. He begins to change.
Zumi: I love Zumi. She's Scratch's sister. She’s a bad-ass rat that gets the job done and she sticks to her morals no matter what happens in the Tunnels, purges and with the dying rats and two-legs.
Balthazar: “And you’ll see you were a coward,” The old rat stared at Fin with his blind eyes, tears wetting his fur.”The ancient rat raised his face, tears streaming from his eyes. “So uch suffering…for the Plague Rats, for the two-legs!” he wailed. “So much…!” “So sorry.” I love Balthazar; he’s the voice of reason – an old wizened rat who tells the rats not to spread the plague.
Character development
I only included quotes so as not to spoil too much.
“As one person became ill and died, so often did the pestilence poison his entire family, too. Those preparing the body of their loved one, died themselves, leaving all to be buried together….Death struck suddenly, and without mercy. It emptied cities and towns. It seeped through windows and under doors…The afternoon shadows lengthened.” - Ananda's father
“War was wrong, Fin wished they could see the Killing Chamber for themselves.” Fin realizes how screwed up everything is.
“When it was happy, it laughed. When it was sad, it cried. Just like Fin. How could Fin ever be able to lead another death squad without wondering if the targets were good two-legs or bad ones?” – Fin describing Ananda.
“No! Don’t move, Mister Fin of the Council, Mister Chairman’s nephew! Stay! Be comfortable! Be comfortable while Scratch goes out into the cruel alley! Be comfortable while Scratch goes out into the cruel alley! Be comfortable while Scratch cleans up after Mister Fin! While Scratch cleans up your mess…AGAIN!” I love Scratch so much. This really gives insight into the abuse of power when it comes to the "lower class".
Romance: Can you feel the love tonight
There’s a lot of development here. It starts with “Fin glared at her.”Because she was dying, Mumi, or Fumi or whatever your name is!” To “Zumi was argumentative, bossy and most likely a Wrecker. She was also intelligent, loyal and incredibly brave. And Fin loved her.”
I made it a point to mention romance because non-human romance is such an interesting take on things. The romance was definitely a slow burner and in the background for the majority of the book. I won’t spoil anything, all I can say it’s exactly like:
The Little Things I loved
I really, really loved that Fin struggled with whether or not spreading the Plague was the right thing to do.
What I really liked about this book was how each chapter began with a quote by Stalin or a person writing during the time of the Bubonic Plague. Here are some of my favourite quotes:
“Death solves all difficulties.” – Stalin
“Their greediness, their scorn and malice were asking to be punished.” – John of Reading, 1346.
“Because man is made of flesh and bone, let him become ashes and dust.” – Gabriele de’ Mussis, 1348
“Some believed that the way to keep free of the plague was to drink heavily, making merry all day and night” – Giovanni Boccaccio.
“People make friends with sin and wrongdoing, while the children die for the sins of their parents.”
“Ideas are more powerful than guns. We would not let our enemies have guns why should we let them have ideas?” - Stalin
Critique: Not that much
What I would have loved is a little more development of Ananda’s mother, Perrin. And even her father, Tom, too. Tom has a character arc, but it largely plays out in the background.
I also found it strange that the dialogue of the humans was so stiff and stilted while the rat dialogue flowed wonderfully. e.g. “Yeah. She breathed “But I saved a helpless mouse from being squashed like a bug.It got away, and that’s what counts.”
So much thought was put into this book for it to be written from the perspective of rats, so Ms Balsara really deserves all the praise she can get.
I’m giving this five stars because it is absolutely perfect for the age group it is aimed at. This is what young readers should use as a bridge to adult fiction and so many people need to start getting into adult fiction. Solely YA readers be missin' out.
Conclusion
I’d recommend this book over Animal Farm any day. There’s a direct allegory to Stalin, but the rest of the story is so unique and beautiful that it’s well worth the read.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Edit: Grammar because I was hella tired when I wrote this review
So this aged very well and very poorly at the same time.
TL:DR - Fascism and pandemics suck.
I just received my copy of The Great and Small sent straight from the author herself! Thank you so much <3
Does this image disturb you? Well, read on. Because it's time we've faced our past. But here are some pretty neat illustrations by the author that need to be shared, too.
Get your popcorn and hot chocolate reading, because this is going to be a review of
“The rat dug a burrow in the most remote area of the Lower Tunnels that she could find. She dug feverishly, using tooth and claw, feeling as she did that eyes watched her from behind. Her baby was curled up, asleep – a blessing. Expecting at every moment to feel long, curved teeth sink into her shoulder. She shuddered, making her fur ripple up and down her back...Uppers still held the bodies of her other pups. They lay scattered around like dried leaves”'
There’s a lot of tonal dissonance in this book. It’s frightfully violent at times, with a simple middle-school level plot that’s executed quite well. In short, exactly what I would have freaking loved as a reader of disturbing books at 14 years old.
This book made me glad that I saved a baby rat from my cat.
This review will be quite comprehensive because I have a lot to say about this fantastic book. Although this book is a often an allegory of Stalin’s purges within his government, spiced up by the return of the Black Death.
The premise
“Every rat is equal! Every nest for all”
The premise is quite complex, especially because of the rat hierarchy. Fin is a “pup” (teenage rat) whose mother and siblings were killed right after his birth. He was taken under the wing of Papa
The Council: These refer to the top rats that follow Stalin Papa with total and utterly loyalty. Except for some who oppose, who realise how mad and power-hungry Papa is.
Tunnel Rats: These refer to all the rats who live under Papa’s domain.
Two-legs: Humans.
Plague Rats: Kamikaze Volunteer and Voluntold rats who are purposefully stricken with the “Great Dying” from long ago so that they may bite and spread the disease to two-legs.
There’s a rich, thick layer of lore regarding the Black Plague that the rats both treasure and despise.
On the other side of town we have Ananda, a half-Indian girl who is perpetually ostracized from her school because of her colour and love for the other. And what I mean by that is that she loves books, drawing and being alone.
The characters: Tunnel
Fin: “I loved Pip because he was as tiny as a seed. Seeds can grow into strong trees.”. Fin is blindly loyal to Papa Stalin as he was raised by him, but he starts to see the truth. He is the protagonist in our story.
Papa: “Gratitude is a dog’s disease.”/”Of course you are a good Tunnel Rat. You are my nephew.” Papa
Ananda: “Ananda breathed in and smiled, tucking her hair behind her ear. This was one of those little secrets between Ananda and her dad; they’d often sneak more books into the house even though Ananda’s mouther, Perrin, had pronounced a moratorium on buying books until they’d read the ones they already had at home, waiting to be unpacked.” Ananda was a bit of a boring character for me. She’s your typical nerdy teenage girl, who gets ostracized as I mentioned. Obviously saving a rat twice and nursing it back to health during the Bubonic Plague isn’t exactly smart but she’s got heart. Ananda also crushes on a girl named George, but nothing ever comes to fruition between them since George is so heavily underdeveloped.
Scratch: “But he said slow, “It means I was watching the two-legs, seeing what traps they were setting for us. So, I was helping the Tunnels.” Scratch looked puzzled. “The rules said we can’t go in the two-leg territory.” Explained Fin. “Two-legs don’t run under the ceiling.” Hope flickered in Scratches eyes. “That’s good, Fin!” Scratch begins as a brain-washed rat who only follows the ways of the Tunnel. He begins to change.
Zumi: I love Zumi. She's Scratch's sister. She’s a bad-ass rat that gets the job done and she sticks to her morals no matter what happens in the Tunnels, purges and with the dying rats and two-legs.
Balthazar: “And you’ll see you were a coward,” The old rat stared at Fin with his blind eyes, tears wetting his fur.”The ancient rat raised his face, tears streaming from his eyes. “So uch suffering…for the Plague Rats, for the two-legs!” he wailed. “So much…!” “So sorry.” I love Balthazar; he’s the voice of reason – an old wizened rat who tells the rats not to spread the plague.
Character development
I only included quotes so as not to spoil too much.
“As one person became ill and died, so often did the pestilence poison his entire family, too. Those preparing the body of their loved one, died themselves, leaving all to be buried together….Death struck suddenly, and without mercy. It emptied cities and towns. It seeped through windows and under doors…The afternoon shadows lengthened.” - Ananda's father
“War was wrong, Fin wished they could see the Killing Chamber for themselves.” Fin realizes how screwed up everything is.
“When it was happy, it laughed. When it was sad, it cried. Just like Fin. How could Fin ever be able to lead another death squad without wondering if the targets were good two-legs or bad ones?” – Fin describing Ananda.
“No! Don’t move, Mister Fin of the Council, Mister Chairman’s nephew! Stay! Be comfortable! Be comfortable while Scratch goes out into the cruel alley! Be comfortable while Scratch goes out into the cruel alley! Be comfortable while Scratch cleans up after Mister Fin! While Scratch cleans up your mess…AGAIN!” I love Scratch so much. This really gives insight into the abuse of power when it comes to the "lower class".
Romance: Can you feel the love tonight
There’s a lot of development here. It starts with “Fin glared at her.”Because she was dying, Mumi, or Fumi or whatever your name is!” To “Zumi was argumentative, bossy and most likely a Wrecker. She was also intelligent, loyal and incredibly brave. And Fin loved her.”
I made it a point to mention romance because non-human romance is such an interesting take on things. The romance was definitely a slow burner and in the background for the majority of the book. I won’t spoil anything, all I can say it’s exactly like:
The Little Things I loved
I really, really loved that Fin struggled with whether or not spreading the Plague was the right thing to do.
What I really liked about this book was how each chapter began with a quote by Stalin or a person writing during the time of the Bubonic Plague. Here are some of my favourite quotes:
“Death solves all difficulties.” – Stalin
“Their greediness, their scorn and malice were asking to be punished.” – John of Reading, 1346.
“Because man is made of flesh and bone, let him become ashes and dust.” – Gabriele de’ Mussis, 1348
“Some believed that the way to keep free of the plague was to drink heavily, making merry all day and night” – Giovanni Boccaccio.
“People make friends with sin and wrongdoing, while the children die for the sins of their parents.”
“Ideas are more powerful than guns. We would not let our enemies have guns why should we let them have ideas?” - Stalin
Critique: Not that much
What I would have loved is a little more development of Ananda’s mother, Perrin. And even her father, Tom, too. Tom has a character arc, but it largely plays out in the background.
I also found it strange that the dialogue of the humans was so stiff and stilted while the rat dialogue flowed wonderfully. e.g. “Yeah. She breathed “But I saved a helpless mouse from being squashed like a bug.It got away, and that’s what counts.”
So much thought was put into this book for it to be written from the perspective of rats, so Ms Balsara really deserves all the praise she can get.
I’m giving this five stars because it is absolutely perfect for the age group it is aimed at. This is what young readers should use as a bridge to adult fiction and so many people need to start getting into adult fiction. Solely YA readers be missin' out.
Conclusion
I’d recommend this book over Animal Farm any day. There’s a direct allegory to Stalin, but the rest of the story is so unique and beautiful that it’s well worth the read.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Edit: Grammar because I was hella tired when I wrote this review
December 2, 2017
I loved reading this book! I'm reading it with my 13 year old next.
The Great and The Small by A.T. Balsara spins a narrative that intertwines the adventures of Fin, a Tunnel Rat, and Ananda, an adolescent artist, as they negotiate the ups and downs of their respective communities. The framework of Stalinist political oppression and the Black Plague of fourteenth century Europe provide a backdrop for the dramatic, high stakes commentary on interpersonal relationships. Not only is the reader led into the complex intrapersonal angst of the characters in the story which triggers deep reflection along relatable themes of bul- lying, loyalty and free will, but also led to consider the thread of hope offered by complex iterations of love, sacrifice and service. All this, in an engaging, action driven story that is at once visually stimulating and acoustically active: Balsara’s descriptions and dialogue make the context and characters jump off the page.
The beauty of the prose, crafted as carefully as the illustrations, is matched by the engaging pace of the plot. Complexity is woven through creative use of dreams and flashbacks, a sophisticated switching between various points of view and quotes from fourteenth century witnesses at the beginning of each chapter.
I enjoyed the honesty of the motivations of the characters and their setbacks throughout the nar- rative. Social commentary was provided through character voices that were not paternalistic or preachy, and bolstered by the credibility of them being immersed within the web of crisis and triumph that peppers the plot. The development of character from beginning to end was believable, with realistic twists that relaxed any sense of contrived messaging. I find it noteworthy that a YA dystopia is couched within our shared human history, rather than a futuristic fantasy world: a valuable takeaway about the treasury of our common global experience to date.
This book is like a Z is for Zacharia meets Stuart Little mash up, with a touch of Harry Potter re- silience mixed in. If I had to put it down, I couldn’t wait to get back to it. It’s suitable for class- rooms, families and those who enjoy a dynamic story that will explore the complexities of individual freedom, trust and love as it relates to social welfare and global consequence. And, if you weren't a rat lover before this book, you might find yourself reconsidering, after the final chapter.
The Great and The Small by A.T. Balsara spins a narrative that intertwines the adventures of Fin, a Tunnel Rat, and Ananda, an adolescent artist, as they negotiate the ups and downs of their respective communities. The framework of Stalinist political oppression and the Black Plague of fourteenth century Europe provide a backdrop for the dramatic, high stakes commentary on interpersonal relationships. Not only is the reader led into the complex intrapersonal angst of the characters in the story which triggers deep reflection along relatable themes of bul- lying, loyalty and free will, but also led to consider the thread of hope offered by complex iterations of love, sacrifice and service. All this, in an engaging, action driven story that is at once visually stimulating and acoustically active: Balsara’s descriptions and dialogue make the context and characters jump off the page.
The beauty of the prose, crafted as carefully as the illustrations, is matched by the engaging pace of the plot. Complexity is woven through creative use of dreams and flashbacks, a sophisticated switching between various points of view and quotes from fourteenth century witnesses at the beginning of each chapter.
I enjoyed the honesty of the motivations of the characters and their setbacks throughout the nar- rative. Social commentary was provided through character voices that were not paternalistic or preachy, and bolstered by the credibility of them being immersed within the web of crisis and triumph that peppers the plot. The development of character from beginning to end was believable, with realistic twists that relaxed any sense of contrived messaging. I find it noteworthy that a YA dystopia is couched within our shared human history, rather than a futuristic fantasy world: a valuable takeaway about the treasury of our common global experience to date.
This book is like a Z is for Zacharia meets Stuart Little mash up, with a touch of Harry Potter re- silience mixed in. If I had to put it down, I couldn’t wait to get back to it. It’s suitable for class- rooms, families and those who enjoy a dynamic story that will explore the complexities of individual freedom, trust and love as it relates to social welfare and global consequence. And, if you weren't a rat lover before this book, you might find yourself reconsidering, after the final chapter.
January 18, 2018
This reviewer received a free copy of the ebook without obligation to provide a favorable or unfavorable review.
Not since Kate DiCamillo's The Tale of Despereaux has a rodent hero been so likable and sympathetic. Author A. T. Balsara has created a convincing underworld with medieval overtones as the backdrop for this fascinating story of politics and prejudice among rats below ground and humans above. Surprises and gratifying resolutions make this adventure a satisfying read. In addition to plenty of enjoyment, there is also a valuable lesson at the core of The Great & The Small.
No offensive material. Recommended for young adult and adult readers, especially those who love a good fairy tale or medieval fantasy.
Not since Kate DiCamillo's The Tale of Despereaux has a rodent hero been so likable and sympathetic. Author A. T. Balsara has created a convincing underworld with medieval overtones as the backdrop for this fascinating story of politics and prejudice among rats below ground and humans above. Surprises and gratifying resolutions make this adventure a satisfying read. In addition to plenty of enjoyment, there is also a valuable lesson at the core of The Great & The Small.
No offensive material. Recommended for young adult and adult readers, especially those who love a good fairy tale or medieval fantasy.
March 21, 2018
Like a 3.5 for me.
Novel premise. Intriguing look into the politics and drama in a rat community. (It took me awhile to get a sense of the time period in which this book takes place. We start off in with a gargoyle and an open air market which feels like we're in the past, although the reality is it takes place in a modern world parallel to our own)
Our tether to the real world is the girl Ananda. I felt like her parts of the story were the weaker than the rest. Compared to the high stakes drama of the rat world, her cartooning pictures of a bully at school and doing a completely ridiculous thing with a rat in a time of plague, seemed pretty fluffy and (sadly at times) a bit boring. I get how she figures into the larger narrative, I'm just not sure I found her perspective all that interesting. Perhaps a kid would disagree though and find viewing the story through her lens to be a more accessible entry point.
The rat story, on the other hand, is fast moving, exciting, and thought-provoking, holding its own against other great allegorical animal adventures written before it. Clearly the author understands rodents and has studied their behavior. Layering those behaviors onto a complex tale of relationships, power, and politics, made for some great storytelling. Loved the idea of rats knowingly weaponizing a plague and the ethical questions that poses to both the characters in the book and the reader.
Without alienating children, this book gets you thinking about some thorny topics. How is the way we wage war related to our lack of empathy for our opponents? How do we know when a leader has passed the point of caring for their constituents and is simply acting in the interest of self preservation and ego? What are the ethical implications of using rats in medical testing (Does our behavior make humans on some level worthy of equally painful payback?) Like most good children's books, it isn't until we shrink these questions down and apply them to another living ecosystem (in this example, a community of rats), that we can finally see them clearly.
Thanks to the author and NetGalley for granting me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Novel premise. Intriguing look into the politics and drama in a rat community. (It took me awhile to get a sense of the time period in which this book takes place. We start off in with a gargoyle and an open air market which feels like we're in the past, although the reality is it takes place in a modern world parallel to our own)
Our tether to the real world is the girl Ananda. I felt like her parts of the story were the weaker than the rest. Compared to the high stakes drama of the rat world, her cartooning pictures of a bully at school and doing a completely ridiculous thing with a rat in a time of plague, seemed pretty fluffy and (sadly at times) a bit boring. I get how she figures into the larger narrative, I'm just not sure I found her perspective all that interesting. Perhaps a kid would disagree though and find viewing the story through her lens to be a more accessible entry point.
The rat story, on the other hand, is fast moving, exciting, and thought-provoking, holding its own against other great allegorical animal adventures written before it. Clearly the author understands rodents and has studied their behavior. Layering those behaviors onto a complex tale of relationships, power, and politics, made for some great storytelling. Loved the idea of rats knowingly weaponizing a plague and the ethical questions that poses to both the characters in the book and the reader.
Without alienating children, this book gets you thinking about some thorny topics. How is the way we wage war related to our lack of empathy for our opponents? How do we know when a leader has passed the point of caring for their constituents and is simply acting in the interest of self preservation and ego? What are the ethical implications of using rats in medical testing (Does our behavior make humans on some level worthy of equally painful payback?) Like most good children's books, it isn't until we shrink these questions down and apply them to another living ecosystem (in this example, a community of rats), that we can finally see them clearly.
Thanks to the author and NetGalley for granting me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2021
DNF@ 25%
I'm sorry to say that this book just didn't work for me.
After several aborted attempts at reading it I realized I'm forcing myself to do something I don't enjoy - hence the rare DNF. I'm certainly not the target audience, and the voice of the narrator, as well as the described conflicts, felt more attuned to the sensibilities of much younger and less experienced readers. The allusions were heavy-handed, characters seemed stereotypical, the emotions were constantly dialed up 11, and the prose felt clunky and rather awkward at times.
I'm sure there will be many people who'll enjoy this story; I simply can't count myself among them.
I'm sorry to say that this book just didn't work for me.
After several aborted attempts at reading it I realized I'm forcing myself to do something I don't enjoy - hence the rare DNF. I'm certainly not the target audience, and the voice of the narrator, as well as the described conflicts, felt more attuned to the sensibilities of much younger and less experienced readers. The allusions were heavy-handed, characters seemed stereotypical, the emotions were constantly dialed up 11, and the prose felt clunky and rather awkward at times.
I'm sure there will be many people who'll enjoy this story; I simply can't count myself among them.
February 10, 2018
“It’s the story of us. When I read history, I feel connected to people who lived ages ago. I think it’s because for them it wasn’t history. It was life. Just like ours is to us.”
Reminiscent of Ken Oppel’s Sunwing – a story of bats and their misuse in World War II research – A. T. Balsara’s The Great and the Small also features a laboratory, but in this story the misuse is imposed on rats. Neither bats nor rats are puppies or ponies – both are unlikely heroes to the human population – but in the end our empathy is swayed. In part this is accomplished through the whimsical illustrations that run through the text.
Balsara’s storyline develops in a city market and the tunnels running beneath it, and occasionally the setting shifts to a nearby suburban neighbourhood where humans live and the laboratory exists. The underworld of the city is populated by a colony of rats under the thumb of their leader, the “Beloved Chairman,” who convinces them to spread the bubonic plague anew in retaliation for the cruel treatment of rats caught among market stalls. His curious nephew, Fin, develops doubts about the plan and literally falls into a relationship with a young girl named Ananda. She happens to be bullied at school and she’s the daughter of the laboratory researcher. So the stage is set for adventure, a ratty love story, and rebellion.
This book challenges the usual categories with respect to target audience. In some ways it reminds of Sunwing, and it would appeal to middle grade youth. Books for these readers usually feature adolescent protagonists who face their first big choices. There’s a metaphorical dragon to be slain. As challenges are met, they grow in self-acceptance, confidence and wisdom. As they leave childhood behind, they discover how the larger, unknown world works and find ways to understand the human condition. Since these stories are written to elicit empathy of readers for the protagonists, readers usually learn (if only vicariously) about making choices and succeeding against the odds, and they learn important life-lessons. The Great & the Small reveals Ananda’s responses to bullying and idealism, and it also leads to her self-acceptance and more responsible confidence and actions. Elements of the story appeal to the developmental stage of adolescents.
In other ways, this book suits the young adult (YA) category of readers where the problems faced by protagonists are more complex and often enter challenging areas (such as death) and sexual/love explorations, although Balsara delves more deeply into the former. This is also the developmental stage where youth begin to form logical systems and hypotheses, explore abstract ideas, and focus on possibilities rather than realities. In large part, the story runs along a dual plotline: rat Fin’s for peace and Ananda’s for rebellion against cruelty to the rats. Balsara prefaces chapters with vivid quotes from Stalin’s rule and from the era of the14th century plague. These sombre quotations introduce another element requiring developmental maturity. However, the numerous, finely wrought illustrations counterbalance the dark quotes. The Great & the Small bridges the abilities of both middle and YA readers.
In a radio interview, Balsara said The Great & the Small shares messages of hope, resilience, and perseverance with young people. Its theme – good vs. evil – pits blind obedience against rebellion. And, she suggested she wants to remind readers about dark periods of history from which we can learn.
Balsara has written an ambitious book in which she combines issues relevant to young readers within the larger context of history, a history of cruelty and blind obedience, in which few rebel. From time-to-time, the “lesson” she advances feels too didactic for my taste, but that aside, she has created a moving and heartfelt story in which a young girl stands up for what she believes and a rat who eventually recognizes a painful truth and grows up.
Reminiscent of Ken Oppel’s Sunwing – a story of bats and their misuse in World War II research – A. T. Balsara’s The Great and the Small also features a laboratory, but in this story the misuse is imposed on rats. Neither bats nor rats are puppies or ponies – both are unlikely heroes to the human population – but in the end our empathy is swayed. In part this is accomplished through the whimsical illustrations that run through the text.
Balsara’s storyline develops in a city market and the tunnels running beneath it, and occasionally the setting shifts to a nearby suburban neighbourhood where humans live and the laboratory exists. The underworld of the city is populated by a colony of rats under the thumb of their leader, the “Beloved Chairman,” who convinces them to spread the bubonic plague anew in retaliation for the cruel treatment of rats caught among market stalls. His curious nephew, Fin, develops doubts about the plan and literally falls into a relationship with a young girl named Ananda. She happens to be bullied at school and she’s the daughter of the laboratory researcher. So the stage is set for adventure, a ratty love story, and rebellion.
This book challenges the usual categories with respect to target audience. In some ways it reminds of Sunwing, and it would appeal to middle grade youth. Books for these readers usually feature adolescent protagonists who face their first big choices. There’s a metaphorical dragon to be slain. As challenges are met, they grow in self-acceptance, confidence and wisdom. As they leave childhood behind, they discover how the larger, unknown world works and find ways to understand the human condition. Since these stories are written to elicit empathy of readers for the protagonists, readers usually learn (if only vicariously) about making choices and succeeding against the odds, and they learn important life-lessons. The Great & the Small reveals Ananda’s responses to bullying and idealism, and it also leads to her self-acceptance and more responsible confidence and actions. Elements of the story appeal to the developmental stage of adolescents.
In other ways, this book suits the young adult (YA) category of readers where the problems faced by protagonists are more complex and often enter challenging areas (such as death) and sexual/love explorations, although Balsara delves more deeply into the former. This is also the developmental stage where youth begin to form logical systems and hypotheses, explore abstract ideas, and focus on possibilities rather than realities. In large part, the story runs along a dual plotline: rat Fin’s for peace and Ananda’s for rebellion against cruelty to the rats. Balsara prefaces chapters with vivid quotes from Stalin’s rule and from the era of the14th century plague. These sombre quotations introduce another element requiring developmental maturity. However, the numerous, finely wrought illustrations counterbalance the dark quotes. The Great & the Small bridges the abilities of both middle and YA readers.
In a radio interview, Balsara said The Great & the Small shares messages of hope, resilience, and perseverance with young people. Its theme – good vs. evil – pits blind obedience against rebellion. And, she suggested she wants to remind readers about dark periods of history from which we can learn.
Balsara has written an ambitious book in which she combines issues relevant to young readers within the larger context of history, a history of cruelty and blind obedience, in which few rebel. From time-to-time, the “lesson” she advances feels too didactic for my taste, but that aside, she has created a moving and heartfelt story in which a young girl stands up for what she believes and a rat who eventually recognizes a painful truth and grows up.
September 8, 2024
Told from two perspectives - one of a rat and one of a human - we are thrown into a bubonic plague epidemic in current times. The rat's story is one of a war-torn underground world that is ran by a dictator (one that comically reminds me of Tom Nook from Animal Crossing at times .. though we'll get to that in a second) almost in similarly to Animal Farm by George Orwell, in a way. The human's story follows the timeline of the plague above ground... or at least it tries to before becoming convoluted with backstory about the main character. While I absolutely wanted to love it, I think about half of the plot just fell short.
The rat's story is emotional and fast-paced for the most part. This part of the book felt incredibly well thought out and I really enjoyed reading this part of the world. I will say that there are times, especially within the dialogue, that sound a little too corny and cartoon-y for my liking. It really did almost feel like I was reading dialogue from Tom Nook... and that was strange, to say the least. Aside from that there are so many moving pieces to this half of the story: enemies to lovers, tyranny resistance, political intrigue, coming of age... I think all of that was incredibly well done.
The human's side of the story just felt flat and uninspired, unfortunately. I think that the attempt to flesh out the character by delving into her trauma just muddled the whole thing. The inclusion of trauma just felt "thrown in"... in my opinion, it really didn't add anything of value to the story at all. While her story does intertwine with the rat's, I wish there were less of her chapters. They were slow and after about the 65% point, I really was not enjoying her side of the story. It didn't interest me and I could not really find a reason to care about this character.
I would like to mention my favorite part - the illustrations. This book is also illustrated by the author themself! I haven't read a book that had pictures in some time, so it was a pleasant surprise.
Overall, this wasn't a terrible read. The rat's side of of the story really saved it for me. Honestly, I think that this could have been a 4 or 5 star read had it solely been from the rat's perspective. Unfortunately I just could not connect with the main human character and ultimately that is what made me drop my rating to three stars.
The rat's story is emotional and fast-paced for the most part. This part of the book felt incredibly well thought out and I really enjoyed reading this part of the world. I will say that there are times, especially within the dialogue, that sound a little too corny and cartoon-y for my liking. It really did almost feel like I was reading dialogue from Tom Nook... and that was strange, to say the least. Aside from that there are so many moving pieces to this half of the story: enemies to lovers, tyranny resistance, political intrigue, coming of age... I think all of that was incredibly well done.
The human's side of the story just felt flat and uninspired, unfortunately. I think that the attempt to flesh out the character by delving into her trauma just muddled the whole thing. The inclusion of trauma just felt "thrown in"... in my opinion, it really didn't add anything of value to the story at all. While her story does intertwine with the rat's, I wish there were less of her chapters. They were slow and after about the 65% point, I really was not enjoying her side of the story. It didn't interest me and I could not really find a reason to care about this character.
I would like to mention my favorite part - the illustrations. This book is also illustrated by the author themself! I haven't read a book that had pictures in some time, so it was a pleasant surprise.
Overall, this wasn't a terrible read. The rat's side of of the story really saved it for me. Honestly, I think that this could have been a 4 or 5 star read had it solely been from the rat's perspective. Unfortunately I just could not connect with the main human character and ultimately that is what made me drop my rating to three stars.
January 20, 2021
A good plot is key, but for me, beautiful, descriptive language is a real treat. Author A.T. Balsara delivers on both.
The story is told from two perspectives. That of the rats and that of the humans, also called the two-legs. Each storyline is so captivating, that once you’re drawn into one, it’s possible to forget you have the other waiting for you in the same book. Which means rediscovering leads to a great surprise.
I particularly enjoyed the short chapters. It made me feel like I was progressing fast and prompted me to read the next and the next chapter.
Each chapter starts with a quote from the Black Death, the Bubonic plague, a pandemic that occurred in the 1300s. I found the quotes quite impactful. And as we’re in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic, very relatable.
“No one from this city shall be allowed to travel to infected areas, and those from infected areas shall not be allowed in.” - Ordinance to restrict the spread of the plague, Italy, 1348
Others made me pause: “No person is so naïve and blind that he should concern himself with the care of others more than his own self.” - Chalin de Vinario, physician, Italy, during the plague
The Great & The Small touched on various topics including violence, death, bullying, choices (to hate or not to hate), classism, relationships, friendship, leadership, love and its conditions.
Beautiful illustrations by the author are dotted throughout this captivating read for young adults.
The characters are believable and loveable - especially the rats. I’m going to miss them.
One thing that stood out for me about this book is how money and status doesn’t matter. A pandemic affects everyone. Again, it’s very relatable to the time we’re living in today in 2021.
From the book, this quote by Gabriele de’ Mussis says it best: “You who had been given so much, who had countless joys and pleasures … now you are headed to the same tomb as those who had nothing.”
Thank you to the author for sharing an electronic copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend it.
The story is told from two perspectives. That of the rats and that of the humans, also called the two-legs. Each storyline is so captivating, that once you’re drawn into one, it’s possible to forget you have the other waiting for you in the same book. Which means rediscovering leads to a great surprise.
I particularly enjoyed the short chapters. It made me feel like I was progressing fast and prompted me to read the next and the next chapter.
Each chapter starts with a quote from the Black Death, the Bubonic plague, a pandemic that occurred in the 1300s. I found the quotes quite impactful. And as we’re in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic, very relatable.
“No one from this city shall be allowed to travel to infected areas, and those from infected areas shall not be allowed in.” - Ordinance to restrict the spread of the plague, Italy, 1348
Others made me pause: “No person is so naïve and blind that he should concern himself with the care of others more than his own self.” - Chalin de Vinario, physician, Italy, during the plague
The Great & The Small touched on various topics including violence, death, bullying, choices (to hate or not to hate), classism, relationships, friendship, leadership, love and its conditions.
Beautiful illustrations by the author are dotted throughout this captivating read for young adults.
The characters are believable and loveable - especially the rats. I’m going to miss them.
One thing that stood out for me about this book is how money and status doesn’t matter. A pandemic affects everyone. Again, it’s very relatable to the time we’re living in today in 2021.
From the book, this quote by Gabriele de’ Mussis says it best: “You who had been given so much, who had countless joys and pleasures … now you are headed to the same tomb as those who had nothing.”
Thank you to the author for sharing an electronic copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend it.
August 7, 2020
To quote a line from the book: “Hate doesn’t change anything!”
I agree and disagree with this.
Hate can work as a poison, festering within someone until they are beyond recognition. Someone who had started out with the most noble of intentions can be warped into a monster after only one bite.
The only antidote for hatred is forgiveness. Even though it won’t come easy and it might taste bitter, it is what will inevitably save you from the poison of hatred.
Hatred won’t change the fact that the world is cruel, life is unfair, and there’s nothing you can do about it. But hatred also doesn’t change the fact that there is still hope and love that exists in spite of the hatred. It is simply up to us which wolf, or rat in this case, we choose to feed.
It’s kind of ironic that I would start reading a book about rats spreading a plague and causing a pandemic while there’s a pandemic happening out in the real world. But when I started reading, maybe this book that I picked out because I saw a cute rat on the cover was meant to be found.
Fin, a pampered little rat, was given the best lot in life. A loving uncle, a loyal friend, the best food, anything he could have wanted. But as he started learning more about the two legs, hatred, war, the more he became warped by a poison of his own. But when he comes across Ananda, he learns that maybe not every thing is what his wise uncle claimed to be. Who was good? Who was evil? How can someone so small do anything that can change something as monumental as war?
But, as Fin is going to learn, sometimes the greatest things arrive in small packages.
I agree and disagree with this.
Hate can work as a poison, festering within someone until they are beyond recognition. Someone who had started out with the most noble of intentions can be warped into a monster after only one bite.
The only antidote for hatred is forgiveness. Even though it won’t come easy and it might taste bitter, it is what will inevitably save you from the poison of hatred.
Hatred won’t change the fact that the world is cruel, life is unfair, and there’s nothing you can do about it. But hatred also doesn’t change the fact that there is still hope and love that exists in spite of the hatred. It is simply up to us which wolf, or rat in this case, we choose to feed.
It’s kind of ironic that I would start reading a book about rats spreading a plague and causing a pandemic while there’s a pandemic happening out in the real world. But when I started reading, maybe this book that I picked out because I saw a cute rat on the cover was meant to be found.
Fin, a pampered little rat, was given the best lot in life. A loving uncle, a loyal friend, the best food, anything he could have wanted. But as he started learning more about the two legs, hatred, war, the more he became warped by a poison of his own. But when he comes across Ananda, he learns that maybe not every thing is what his wise uncle claimed to be. Who was good? Who was evil? How can someone so small do anything that can change something as monumental as war?
But, as Fin is going to learn, sometimes the greatest things arrive in small packages.
August 2, 2021
I received this free copy via the author for an exchange of honest review.
This is the story about survival and war. A war between the colony of rats with human and each other. The colony hate humans for the reason humans disgusted with their presence but at the same time using their kind as a lab experiment. The colony is fighting is each other too for what their believe about human.On Chairman's side, human is an enemy that supposed to be exterminate.It come to an extent to bring back and old plague to infect human. But from the Resistance side, they believe that not all human is an enemy and believe human have a feelings just like them.
Fin, a young rat that lost his mom since elittle and Chairman's nephew believe that human is an enemy. But after he met with a human kindness and warm feelings he start doubting and thinking if what he believe all this time is true.
I love seeing the development from this novel. From hatred to understanding, the blind royalty turned bad, the trust being betray, the power turn to greed and abusive even to an own kind.
The illustration that accompany this book giving me a detail of how character look like and as I am reading this, I can imagine it in a such animated way.
I enjoy this whole read. Even though it is fbles/children book. But adult can read it too and learn a lot of lesson from this novel.
This is the story about survival and war. A war between the colony of rats with human and each other. The colony hate humans for the reason humans disgusted with their presence but at the same time using their kind as a lab experiment. The colony is fighting is each other too for what their believe about human.On Chairman's side, human is an enemy that supposed to be exterminate.It come to an extent to bring back and old plague to infect human. But from the Resistance side, they believe that not all human is an enemy and believe human have a feelings just like them.
Fin, a young rat that lost his mom since elittle and Chairman's nephew believe that human is an enemy. But after he met with a human kindness and warm feelings he start doubting and thinking if what he believe all this time is true.
I love seeing the development from this novel. From hatred to understanding, the blind royalty turned bad, the trust being betray, the power turn to greed and abusive even to an own kind.
The illustration that accompany this book giving me a detail of how character look like and as I am reading this, I can imagine it in a such animated way.
I enjoy this whole read. Even though it is fbles/children book. But adult can read it too and learn a lot of lesson from this novel.
December 19, 2020
I wasn't expecting to love this book as much as I did. The story is captivating and The Great and the Small is a page-turner. I love the dual perspective of the rats and the humans. A.T. Balsara does an incredible job at describing the rat society. Her writing style is beautiful, simple and easy to read. Another thing that captivated me is the illustrations throughout the book. I loved stopping my reading to look at every details of those beautiful, hand-drawn illustrations. Also, every chapter starts with a quote; it adds more personality and refinement to this already very amazing book.
August 2, 2018
This reviewer received a free copy of the ebook without obligation to provide a favorable or unfavorable review.
First, although this is not my ordinary genre I absolutely loved this story!
The Great and The Small by A.T. Balsara has a fast paced plot that sends the reader on a marvelous journey filled with adventure, love, humor, loss, fear, courage and betrayal. Balsara's engaging writing style is simple yet so eloquent it encourages the reader on. I do not want to give away the plot, but the main characters are a pint sized rat and a little girl. The story is a wonderful fantasy adventure tale that is appropriate for higher elementary school children as well as middle and high school students, not to mention adults. It is a tale that has lasted through the ages and will continue to address issues and interpersonal relationships that will be as current today and they will be in the future. The story and the author's incredible command of plot and character development, bring this story to life and I am convinced would make a wonderful animated film! I highly recommend this book.
First, although this is not my ordinary genre I absolutely loved this story!
The Great and The Small by A.T. Balsara has a fast paced plot that sends the reader on a marvelous journey filled with adventure, love, humor, loss, fear, courage and betrayal. Balsara's engaging writing style is simple yet so eloquent it encourages the reader on. I do not want to give away the plot, but the main characters are a pint sized rat and a little girl. The story is a wonderful fantasy adventure tale that is appropriate for higher elementary school children as well as middle and high school students, not to mention adults. It is a tale that has lasted through the ages and will continue to address issues and interpersonal relationships that will be as current today and they will be in the future. The story and the author's incredible command of plot and character development, bring this story to life and I am convinced would make a wonderful animated film! I highly recommend this book.
January 30, 2021
"No one from this city shall be allowed to travel to infected areas, and those from infected areas shall not be allowed in."
Ordinance to restrict the spread of the plague, Italy 1348
There are two worlds. The one above the ground where humans live, and the one below the ground where rats reign. Each one hates the other. Humans capture rats and use them in medical experiments. Until one day, Fin, the nephew of the chairman of the rat world, sneaks into a lab and finds out what happens there. So the rat world decides to fight against humans. And now is the time to use an ancient weapon that rats have from the middle ages...
This is a story told by two perspectives. The human one (about one quarter of the book) and the rat one (where rats have all the emotions you can find in human society. Greed, love, heroism, friendship, betrayal).
This is a very beautiful (and sad at times) quick read. I really enjoy it, and I liked the idea that every chapter starts with a quote from various famous people from the middle ages.
"Where did our friends go? Those ones so dear to us? Did the sky open up and take them? Did the earth open and pull them in?"
Petrarch 1350
Many thanks to @BookTasters and the author A.T. Balsara (@torreybalsara) for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Ordinance to restrict the spread of the plague, Italy 1348
There are two worlds. The one above the ground where humans live, and the one below the ground where rats reign. Each one hates the other. Humans capture rats and use them in medical experiments. Until one day, Fin, the nephew of the chairman of the rat world, sneaks into a lab and finds out what happens there. So the rat world decides to fight against humans. And now is the time to use an ancient weapon that rats have from the middle ages...
This is a story told by two perspectives. The human one (about one quarter of the book) and the rat one (where rats have all the emotions you can find in human society. Greed, love, heroism, friendship, betrayal).
This is a very beautiful (and sad at times) quick read. I really enjoy it, and I liked the idea that every chapter starts with a quote from various famous people from the middle ages.
"Where did our friends go? Those ones so dear to us? Did the sky open up and take them? Did the earth open and pull them in?"
Petrarch 1350
Many thanks to @BookTasters and the author A.T. Balsara (@torreybalsara) for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2021
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Intriguing and very well written.
I’ll admit that I dragged my feet through the first few chapters introducing Fin, the Tunnel Rats and Ananda. It was absolutely worth it!
In my opinion, something that makes a great author is the ability to make the reader have a passion for the characters. That’s exactly what happened here. I grew such an attachment to Fin and his growth throughout, a Rat!
The writing perspective shift from Ananda to Fin was articulated perfectly. And to add to the foreshadowing were given a large array of quotes dating back to the plague, dictatorships, you name it! The tone is set every single chapter.
I laughed, I cried, but ultimately I think I fell in love with these Tunnel Rats and I’m not ashamed at all. I highly recommend that everyone read this book at least once in their lives.
Intriguing and very well written.
I’ll admit that I dragged my feet through the first few chapters introducing Fin, the Tunnel Rats and Ananda. It was absolutely worth it!
In my opinion, something that makes a great author is the ability to make the reader have a passion for the characters. That’s exactly what happened here. I grew such an attachment to Fin and his growth throughout, a Rat!
The writing perspective shift from Ananda to Fin was articulated perfectly. And to add to the foreshadowing were given a large array of quotes dating back to the plague, dictatorships, you name it! The tone is set every single chapter.
I laughed, I cried, but ultimately I think I fell in love with these Tunnel Rats and I’m not ashamed at all. I highly recommend that everyone read this book at least once in their lives.
January 24, 2021
3.5 stars
It took so long to read this book. Since english isnt my first language, it was hard for me to get in the book. Maybe i would enjoy more if i could read faster. But i think this author should be more popular. It was an unexpected book. Thanks to Booktasters, i got a chance to read.
It took so long to read this book. Since english isnt my first language, it was hard for me to get in the book. Maybe i would enjoy more if i could read faster. But i think this author should be more popular. It was an unexpected book. Thanks to Booktasters, i got a chance to read.
November 26, 2020
PDF provided by Booktasters in Exchange for an honest review.
To be honest, I did not expect to like this as much as I did. The characters were really well developed and the plot was super interesting. It was definitely a relevant book seeing the current COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, I'd give this 4 stars because it was a little slow-moving at times and the writing was very okay, but the character development and plot made up for it.
What I liked:
*The themes - I really loved the theme of empathy. It was so nice to see how Finn just assumed that all humans were bad even though he'd never met one but he became friends with one and realized that they weren't bad. I also loved the message that there are good and bad people on both sides. There were definitely some very important messages.
*The characters - Although I wouldn't say I fell in love with the characters, Finn and everyone else was very well-developed. I felt like Ananda was a bit of a Mary-Sue but everyone else was very developed. My favorite character was absolutely Zumi! She was so cool.
*The plot - Although the plot was slow at first, it was very well developed.
What I thought could have been better:
*The writing - I thought the writing was very plain, which was fine, but as someone who often enjoys flowery language I wish there had been more memorable quotes. I feel like the writing was just kind of there and writing is usually very important for me when reading.
*The romance - The relationship between Zumi and Finn honestly felt very rushed. It was slightly strange to read about two rats falling in love, but it felt like they interacted once and just instantly fell in love. It felt like the author just wanted to throw a romance in.
Overall, I liked this more than I thought I would. I thought it was pretty good and I would recommend it to anyone who's interested!
To be honest, I did not expect to like this as much as I did. The characters were really well developed and the plot was super interesting. It was definitely a relevant book seeing the current COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, I'd give this 4 stars because it was a little slow-moving at times and the writing was very okay, but the character development and plot made up for it.
What I liked:
*The themes - I really loved the theme of empathy. It was so nice to see how Finn just assumed that all humans were bad even though he'd never met one but he became friends with one and realized that they weren't bad. I also loved the message that there are good and bad people on both sides. There were definitely some very important messages.
*The characters - Although I wouldn't say I fell in love with the characters, Finn and everyone else was very well-developed. I felt like Ananda was a bit of a Mary-Sue but everyone else was very developed. My favorite character was absolutely Zumi! She was so cool.
*The plot - Although the plot was slow at first, it was very well developed.
What I thought could have been better:
*The writing - I thought the writing was very plain, which was fine, but as someone who often enjoys flowery language I wish there had been more memorable quotes. I feel like the writing was just kind of there and writing is usually very important for me when reading.
*The romance - The relationship between Zumi and Finn honestly felt very rushed. It was slightly strange to read about two rats falling in love, but it felt like they interacted once and just instantly fell in love. It felt like the author just wanted to throw a romance in.
Overall, I liked this more than I thought I would. I thought it was pretty good and I would recommend it to anyone who's interested!
January 2, 2022
I bought this book at a second hand store and was drawn to it by the illustrations (mostly done by the author) and the fact that it appeared to have won two awards. I didn't really pay attention to content descriptions. I was pleased to discover that it was signed by the author including a small line drawing of a rat. I have some experience with rats. The first house my husband and I purchased turned out to be infested with them. We captured 19 after discovering that we had an uncapped sewer pipe under a raised floor in our basement. I have funny stories galore to tell now that didn't seem so funny at the time it was happening.
And so I read. I had initially thought this book might appeal to my ten year old granddaughter. I changed my mind as I read for several reasons. We have almost completed two years of living with a pandemic. This book was written before that but was prescient in many respects. The story is told from two main perspectives - that of Fin, a young rat with a damaged paw and Ananda, a young girl who loves reading and drawing and animals yet finds herself at the mercy of bullies at school and opposed to her father who experiments on rats in his efforts to find a cure for cancer. The subject matter was quite heavy in many respects, apparently inspired in part by a family visit to Dachau and the ideas of Josef Stalin. In the novel war develops between the rats and the unknowing "two-legs". The tool of war is the Bubonic plague and all the rats must work together regardless of the sacrifice demanded of them. There is violence in the story and yet Fin is easy to identify with and feel for.
The book was a quick read for me with short chapters and captivating illustrations. I would recommend it to teenage or older readers but not to one as young as my grand-daughter or to any who might be especially sensitive to our current pandemic.
And so I read. I had initially thought this book might appeal to my ten year old granddaughter. I changed my mind as I read for several reasons. We have almost completed two years of living with a pandemic. This book was written before that but was prescient in many respects. The story is told from two main perspectives - that of Fin, a young rat with a damaged paw and Ananda, a young girl who loves reading and drawing and animals yet finds herself at the mercy of bullies at school and opposed to her father who experiments on rats in his efforts to find a cure for cancer. The subject matter was quite heavy in many respects, apparently inspired in part by a family visit to Dachau and the ideas of Josef Stalin. In the novel war develops between the rats and the unknowing "two-legs". The tool of war is the Bubonic plague and all the rats must work together regardless of the sacrifice demanded of them. There is violence in the story and yet Fin is easy to identify with and feel for.
The book was a quick read for me with short chapters and captivating illustrations. I would recommend it to teenage or older readers but not to one as young as my grand-daughter or to any who might be especially sensitive to our current pandemic.
July 29, 2021
The Great & the Small
A.T. Balsara
A dark fantasy written and illustrated by A.T. Balsara .This is a parallel universe stories , one who is underground and another who is above ground.
We met a colony of rats who live their life in their natural environment having their own laws and hierarchy that is similar to homosapien ones .when the chairman of the colony and uncle of fin tells each 'rats are equal' in the eyes of laws or when he sacrifice the other rats who live in the tunnel in the name of ' common goods ' it gives us some glimpse of our own society .
This story touches the theme of political responsibility,leadership,heroism,survival,kindness,friendship,loyalty and love.This book deals with the depth of human experience in the guise of rodents.The very thin line of good and evil .The intersection of two worlds where a sensitive teenager girl , Amanda interacts with the rat Fin and how her life and the people around her gets affected and how both of them learn to see the complexities and have to negotiate with the ups and down of their respective communities.
This is an engaging story .Complexity is woven through dreams and flashblacks.
Social commentary through the characters, various point of views and the quotes from 14th century about black plague in the beginning of each chapter is very well written and it makes the book more interesting for the reader.
A.T. Balsara
A dark fantasy written and illustrated by A.T. Balsara .This is a parallel universe stories , one who is underground and another who is above ground.
We met a colony of rats who live their life in their natural environment having their own laws and hierarchy that is similar to homosapien ones .when the chairman of the colony and uncle of fin tells each 'rats are equal' in the eyes of laws or when he sacrifice the other rats who live in the tunnel in the name of ' common goods ' it gives us some glimpse of our own society .
This story touches the theme of political responsibility,leadership,heroism,survival,kindness,friendship,loyalty and love.This book deals with the depth of human experience in the guise of rodents.The very thin line of good and evil .The intersection of two worlds where a sensitive teenager girl , Amanda interacts with the rat Fin and how her life and the people around her gets affected and how both of them learn to see the complexities and have to negotiate with the ups and down of their respective communities.
This is an engaging story .Complexity is woven through dreams and flashblacks.
Social commentary through the characters, various point of views and the quotes from 14th century about black plague in the beginning of each chapter is very well written and it makes the book more interesting for the reader.
November 29, 2017
In the young adult novel, The Great & the Small, author A. T. Balsara draws readers down into the dark maze of tunnels that lie deep below a thriving market of the “two-legs.” There, a colony of rats is divided into the “uppers” and the “lowers,” led by the charismatic and dangerous Papa, Chairman of the Council of Rats. Enraged by centuries of abuse and murder at the hands of the two-legs, Papa proposes to wage war by reintroducing the Black Death, this time as a resistant superbug with the power to wipe out modern humanity. As the battle rages, Papa’s beloved nephew and the hero of the story, Fin, must decide for himself the true meaning of loyalty and love. Reminiscent of George Orwell’s Animal Farm with its social dynamics and piercing critique of Stalin, The Great & the Small weaves a compelling tale of terror and heroism, oppression and rebellion, revealing complex relationships and many-shaded characters as worthy as those in Watership Down (Richard Adams). Balsara’s black & white illustrations enhance the story and mood. With its forays into some of the darkest chapters of human history, The Great & the Small is thought-provoking, superior fiction, recommended for book clubs, classrooms, and as an under-the-covers-with-a-flashlight, good old-fashioned literary romp. Ages 12 and up.
January 3, 2021
It's one thing to have a wild and wide imagination, it's yet another to put these imaginations into writing and even harder to make the written piece make sense not just to the original writer but also to anyone with just a broad imagination as well. Add the fact that it's about rats with their peculiar mannerism, behaviour and character greatly elucidated upon and one can't help but marvel at the dexterity of the author.
A. T . Balsara in this book "The Great & The Small" has produced a wonderful piece of fiction so good I'm still in awe. With beautiful illustrations and historical quotes about the plaque in the past and the constant back and forth between the human world and the rat world, the author successfully keeps the imagination of the reader stretched and guessing at what might possibly happen next.
Follow the life of a young rat born under strange circumstances, compelled by a self centred leader of an uncle to carry out the uncle's dastardly act of bringing back the black plaque as a weapon to destroy humans. Finding love, betrayal, and rebellion along the way, little did the uncle know that the so called "two legs" he is sending his nephew to go kill has already killed his nephew with kindness.
A. T . Balsara in this book "The Great & The Small" has produced a wonderful piece of fiction so good I'm still in awe. With beautiful illustrations and historical quotes about the plaque in the past and the constant back and forth between the human world and the rat world, the author successfully keeps the imagination of the reader stretched and guessing at what might possibly happen next.
Follow the life of a young rat born under strange circumstances, compelled by a self centred leader of an uncle to carry out the uncle's dastardly act of bringing back the black plaque as a weapon to destroy humans. Finding love, betrayal, and rebellion along the way, little did the uncle know that the so called "two legs" he is sending his nephew to go kill has already killed his nephew with kindness.
July 6, 2018
A.T. Balsara's young adult novel, The Great & the Small , explores the relationship between humans and rats, as well as defamiliarizes the human world so the reader can gain a deeper understanding of it.
The novel follows Fin, a young and adventurous individual who is, perhaps -- most interestingly to the reader -- a rat. He is an important member of the rat society since he is the nephew of the "Beloved Chairman", who is his uncle and the leader of said society. Fin is a young adult rat (a "pup") and is constantly trying to impress The Chairman through the novel. Fin as a character is extraordinarily flawed, but for the right reasons. For example, in Chapter Two, Fin and his friend Scratch are entering the Market, a place in 'two-leg' (human) territory and Fin is unfortunately seen by a human and his leg is crushed under a boot. What is important in this instance is Scratch's reaction in Chapter Three: "Zumi told me not to be friends with you…Trouble! That's what she called you! Now I know why. Now I'm going to be Collected" (30). This scene is one of many instances where Fin is ignorant of what his uncle's true motives are. Scratch's reaction to this instance where he is contemplating the possibility of being blamed for Fin's injury is "Collection", which Fin doesn't believe exists. Fin is manipulated by The Chairman, willingly so, because he wants the one adult mentor he has in his life to be proud of him. The unfortunate aspect is that he is blinded by his familial love of his uncle that he does not see the wrong he is doing, that he is a totalitarian dictator that resembles Josef Stalin. One quote in the novel that I believe embodies Fin’s growth as a character is on page 141: “I closed my eyes to the sound of children crying and women weeping… I believed I was doing what was necessary, what was right - (Lev Koplev, a young Soviet Activist)”
Another character in the novel who is important to analyze is Ananda, the human counterpart of Fin. The perspective changes suddenly through the novel and the other perspective other than Fin and The Chairman, is Ananda. She is immediately introduced as a genuine, kind, and brave person. As Fin is injured by the human who stomps on one of his legs, Ananda leans down to help him -- risking disapproval from her father and fellow humans in a public setting (24). Ananda is written as a high school student, many may attribute this incident cited above as a result of her age and naivete, but I believe it is due to bravery and kindness. Ananda risks being called names such as "Rat Girl" because she cares about other creatures and is willing to help them at a high cost. Later in the novel, when Ananda encounters Fin again and nurses him back to health (179) during an outbreak of the bubonic, I don't think it is simply out of the fact that she is 'naïve'. Ananda's Father is a scientist and experiments on rats, these rats are trapped in what Fin and his society call "The Killing Chamber". The specific instance of Fin finding this laboratory (78) is what truly made me ask a lot of questions about animal testing and how cruel it is. This thought-provoking passage fuels Fin's beliefs that had been placed there by The Chairman and elevates them to a point where he is extremely afraid of humans and wishes harm upon them.
The climax of the novel is when the Bubonic Plague returns with the help of the plague rats Fin's uncle, leader of the rat hierarchy, makes him join the ARM (Arrest, Management). Chapter Seventeen is where The Chairman gives his speech, which is where the resemblance to Stalin is unquestionable and made deliberate. The fact that The Chairman represents a maniacal and evil dictator who wants to wipe out humans is extremely evident and complicates Fin's relationship with The Chairman. Fin wants to impress his father figure by doing his bidding, and at one point deeply believes what his uncle tells him. "The throb in his foot didn't matter. This was his family. These were his brothers and sisters. And the two-legs? They had Killing Chambers and traps. They poisoned and tormented his brothers and sisters" (115). But Fin learns that family doesn't always mean something positive. Familial dissonance between Fin and The Chairman, especially due to the outcome of the novel, is advocating for the importance of the family we choose rather than the one we are given. We can see this in Fin's relationship with Ananda (194), and his relationship with Zumi, Scratch's sister. Fin's relationship with Zumi is even more important to his character because she embodies many of the things his uncle wants to destroy: rebelliousness, bravery, and love.
On page 224, Zumi and Fin come across stacks of 'Two-Leg' bodies buried in a mass grave -- a possible allusion to the Holocaust and the Black Plague victims. Fin recalls what Balthazar had stated during his uncle's speech, he was the former Chairman and had forewarned them all about the Plague (akin to Laocoon in Virgil's Aeneid, or the blind prophet of Apollo, Tiresias, in Oedipus), and was eradicated because he spoke the truth. Fin understands what Balthazar had warned because his perception of humans was not completely negative any longer, his relationship with Ananda had taught him that two-legs were capable of kindness.
Overall, the novel The Great & the Small contains a story that can impact preconceived notions, alter perspectives, and transcends the limits of the genre. Anyone can enjoy this book because it tells a compelling story, humanizing animals so that we as humans can attempt to understand what things look like through their eyes. This novel changed my perspective personally and taught me not to limit the animal experience even though we may not know what that looks like. As people, it is extremely easy to believe that we are the only important aspect of the planet, but that is not true. The craftsmanship and artistry this book contains are abundant. One can tell as soon as they read the beautiful words and examine the illustrations. I hope that many others enjoy this book as much as I did.
The novel follows Fin, a young and adventurous individual who is, perhaps -- most interestingly to the reader -- a rat. He is an important member of the rat society since he is the nephew of the "Beloved Chairman", who is his uncle and the leader of said society. Fin is a young adult rat (a "pup") and is constantly trying to impress The Chairman through the novel. Fin as a character is extraordinarily flawed, but for the right reasons. For example, in Chapter Two, Fin and his friend Scratch are entering the Market, a place in 'two-leg' (human) territory and Fin is unfortunately seen by a human and his leg is crushed under a boot. What is important in this instance is Scratch's reaction in Chapter Three: "Zumi told me not to be friends with you…Trouble! That's what she called you! Now I know why. Now I'm going to be Collected" (30). This scene is one of many instances where Fin is ignorant of what his uncle's true motives are. Scratch's reaction to this instance where he is contemplating the possibility of being blamed for Fin's injury is "Collection", which Fin doesn't believe exists. Fin is manipulated by The Chairman, willingly so, because he wants the one adult mentor he has in his life to be proud of him. The unfortunate aspect is that he is blinded by his familial love of his uncle that he does not see the wrong he is doing, that he is a totalitarian dictator that resembles Josef Stalin. One quote in the novel that I believe embodies Fin’s growth as a character is on page 141: “I closed my eyes to the sound of children crying and women weeping… I believed I was doing what was necessary, what was right - (Lev Koplev, a young Soviet Activist)”
Another character in the novel who is important to analyze is Ananda, the human counterpart of Fin. The perspective changes suddenly through the novel and the other perspective other than Fin and The Chairman, is Ananda. She is immediately introduced as a genuine, kind, and brave person. As Fin is injured by the human who stomps on one of his legs, Ananda leans down to help him -- risking disapproval from her father and fellow humans in a public setting (24). Ananda is written as a high school student, many may attribute this incident cited above as a result of her age and naivete, but I believe it is due to bravery and kindness. Ananda risks being called names such as "Rat Girl" because she cares about other creatures and is willing to help them at a high cost. Later in the novel, when Ananda encounters Fin again and nurses him back to health (179) during an outbreak of the bubonic, I don't think it is simply out of the fact that she is 'naïve'. Ananda's Father is a scientist and experiments on rats, these rats are trapped in what Fin and his society call "The Killing Chamber". The specific instance of Fin finding this laboratory (78) is what truly made me ask a lot of questions about animal testing and how cruel it is. This thought-provoking passage fuels Fin's beliefs that had been placed there by The Chairman and elevates them to a point where he is extremely afraid of humans and wishes harm upon them.
The climax of the novel is when the Bubonic Plague returns with the help of the plague rats Fin's uncle, leader of the rat hierarchy, makes him join the ARM (Arrest, Management). Chapter Seventeen is where The Chairman gives his speech, which is where the resemblance to Stalin is unquestionable and made deliberate. The fact that The Chairman represents a maniacal and evil dictator who wants to wipe out humans is extremely evident and complicates Fin's relationship with The Chairman. Fin wants to impress his father figure by doing his bidding, and at one point deeply believes what his uncle tells him. "The throb in his foot didn't matter. This was his family. These were his brothers and sisters. And the two-legs? They had Killing Chambers and traps. They poisoned and tormented his brothers and sisters" (115). But Fin learns that family doesn't always mean something positive. Familial dissonance between Fin and The Chairman, especially due to the outcome of the novel, is advocating for the importance of the family we choose rather than the one we are given. We can see this in Fin's relationship with Ananda (194), and his relationship with Zumi, Scratch's sister. Fin's relationship with Zumi is even more important to his character because she embodies many of the things his uncle wants to destroy: rebelliousness, bravery, and love.
On page 224, Zumi and Fin come across stacks of 'Two-Leg' bodies buried in a mass grave -- a possible allusion to the Holocaust and the Black Plague victims. Fin recalls what Balthazar had stated during his uncle's speech, he was the former Chairman and had forewarned them all about the Plague (akin to Laocoon in Virgil's Aeneid, or the blind prophet of Apollo, Tiresias, in Oedipus), and was eradicated because he spoke the truth. Fin understands what Balthazar had warned because his perception of humans was not completely negative any longer, his relationship with Ananda had taught him that two-legs were capable of kindness.
Overall, the novel The Great & the Small contains a story that can impact preconceived notions, alter perspectives, and transcends the limits of the genre. Anyone can enjoy this book because it tells a compelling story, humanizing animals so that we as humans can attempt to understand what things look like through their eyes. This novel changed my perspective personally and taught me not to limit the animal experience even though we may not know what that looks like. As people, it is extremely easy to believe that we are the only important aspect of the planet, but that is not true. The craftsmanship and artistry this book contains are abundant. One can tell as soon as they read the beautiful words and examine the illustrations. I hope that many others enjoy this book as much as I did.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2021
Let me start off by saying wow!this is 5 hours well spent.it is like reading history in a fascinating way,I knew it was going to be an exciting read ever since I read the plot,every page got me interested in the other,there wasn't a boring moment in this book.this really change the way I view rats,I saw a rat the other day and thought is that a good or a bad one.l kinda guessed scratch was going to die but not that way,the book was unpredictable,and the romance between zumi and fin added a good value to the book.
But I have some questions,did papa die?,what happened to bothwell did he ever return?was fin ever voted chairman?I guess I will never know.
I am usually into lengthy book I will accept this,the ending was so emotional. "A flick of grey and white.A flash of pink tail.too fast for her to clearly see.carefully ananda climbed to her knees, trembling from the strain she leaned on the windowsill. Could it be?there....it was him!Tommy.". I could almost feel it .this is writing at it finest.
But I have some questions,did papa die?,what happened to bothwell did he ever return?was fin ever voted chairman?I guess I will never know.
I am usually into lengthy book I will accept this,the ending was so emotional. "A flick of grey and white.A flash of pink tail.too fast for her to clearly see.carefully ananda climbed to her knees, trembling from the strain she leaned on the windowsill. Could it be?there....it was him!Tommy.". I could almost feel it .this is writing at it finest.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2021
*Received a copy of the book via BookTasters (through the author herself) in exchange for an honest review*
I must say this book is a page turner! The rats' characters showcases the different personalities of rats in real life and its also amazing how the author has captured the social hierarchy of rats. What I like the most about the book is that despite the social construct, not all rats believed in Papa's ideals and tried to fight back. I liked how Fin learned about it the hard way and tried to change things his way. But in the end, had to end things the hard way. I also liked how the author interwined Fin and Ananda's lives together. Because of their encounters, both their lives have changed.
I sooo love the illustrations of the book!!!
I must say this book is a page turner! The rats' characters showcases the different personalities of rats in real life and its also amazing how the author has captured the social hierarchy of rats. What I like the most about the book is that despite the social construct, not all rats believed in Papa's ideals and tried to fight back. I liked how Fin learned about it the hard way and tried to change things his way. But in the end, had to end things the hard way. I also liked how the author interwined Fin and Ananda's lives together. Because of their encounters, both their lives have changed.
I sooo love the illustrations of the book!!!
January 8, 2021
Fin is the only remaining child of his mother, after his mom and siblings were killed.He is the Chairman's nephew,therefore an important contributor to society.He knows he is important but there are things he doesn't understand,he is headstrong,seldom asks before acting.With this war going on, he is part and parcel,he jumped in trusting that his uncle is one of the good guys.
What's going to happen when he finds out the real truth.
It's an intriguing story of the life that 'we' might not be aware of.It's analogy about the 'plague' in the wake of what we are facing in the world right now is spot on.
What's going to happen when he finds out the real truth.
It's an intriguing story of the life that 'we' might not be aware of.It's analogy about the 'plague' in the wake of what we are facing in the world right now is spot on.
January 5, 2021
This is a look into the past to understand, first of, ourselves, and our present.
This is one of the best worlds created that I have ever read. I loved the world building, the character development, and the plot itself. It is a trope that I love.
This is a general review because I do not want to spoil it for people as they MUST read it, really.
The author managed to get me into her world in a very nice, smooth, and interesting way. And that is something not a lot of authors can do to me 😅
This is on my favorite books list 💖
This is one of the best worlds created that I have ever read. I loved the world building, the character development, and the plot itself. It is a trope that I love.
This is a general review because I do not want to spoil it for people as they MUST read it, really.
The author managed to get me into her world in a very nice, smooth, and interesting way. And that is something not a lot of authors can do to me 😅
This is on my favorite books list 💖
January 15, 2021
I don't really remember when was the last time I have a 5 star to a book I got for review. This book, with its story, deep messages (can be different for different people), and the view from two different sides of life hits hard. It makes you see and think about not only your life as a human, but also the other living beings around. Worth reading!
P.S. I loved the quotes in front of every chapter!!!
P.S. I loved the quotes in front of every chapter!!!
October 12, 2020
One of the fastest books I've read. It was really good and made me picture things in a different way. The only reason I'm granting a four star is per as someone from Africa where we experience rats brutality in it's finest forms, I cannot a 100% agree with this 😅🙈. I know it's biased from my part because the book was really good but..
May 28, 2021
This is a surprise read for me, I wouldn't have landed on this book on my own until I got a copy for a review.
I'm not much used to reading fiction in English, but I really enjoyed this book. It speaks about a world and society of rats with great details and hand drawn illusions.
This is a page turner. If you enjoy fiction, you can give this a try.
I'm not much used to reading fiction in English, but I really enjoyed this book. It speaks about a world and society of rats with great details and hand drawn illusions.
This is a page turner. If you enjoy fiction, you can give this a try.
August 10, 2021
This book reminded me of a hilarious incident that my mother once recounted to me. When we moved in to our new neighborhood, there was a bit of a rat menace initially. And during one of our cleaning drive, three rats sprang out of a corner and scurried off. My Mum leapt at once and hollered the way Two-Legs do :^) But then she claimed that the three of them skated side by side and it looked as though they were holding hands! Even after much deliberation & laughter, my mother still insists – to his day – that that is what she saw: the three rats holding hands & scampering together. After reading this book, I’m tempted to wonder if we might have witnessed our own version of Fin, Zumi and Scratch in our house:^)
I’m sure we’ve all encountered these little creatures and have reacted in various ways. But this beautiful book will offer a fascinating perspective from the rats’ standpoint. With a simple plot and engaging characters, the author has weaved a riveting tale of love, loyalty, friendships, kindness, courage, and fortitude. The charisma of a Leader (Papa), the fierceness of a mother’s protective love (Nia & Pip), the camaraderie of a dear friend (Fin & Scratch), and the eclectic impact of kindness (Ananda) are only a few examples of what the characters in this book represent. And now, after having heard so much from the rats, I’ll try not to bellow when I see them next time ;^)
What I like the most about this book is that it advocates for the goodness in everyone. We know that in times of war & conflict, cynicism is often unavoidable. You’re always on the look-out for betrayals. Mistakes are also made. But the key value I took out of this book is that trusting people is not a naivety, it can also be a strength. If Fin is to succeed in his endeavor, he would surely need the aid of his most-trusted friends. As an adventurous rat, Fin witnessed unspeakable horrors meted out to his kind by the Two-Legs. It is only natural for him to grow indignant against them & demand justice. But the whole world as he knew it, was about to turn on its head because of a simple act of kindness.
“What would you do when your whole worldview is shaken?”
“Would you do what is right, even if it means going against those who truly love and care about you?”
Fin wrestles with this conflict and learns that one needs courage to face our fears. And only in struggling with it do we find the strength & clarity to do what is right. We see this in how all the predicaments & calamities assailing Fin molded him into a stronger Tunnel Rat.
Reading this book was such a delight especially accompanied by such beautiful illustrations. I truly commend the author for putting such a great effort. I will remember this book very fondly. I still remember the first book I ever read as a little child: it was an illustrated edition of Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book. Even after all these years I remember those pictures & how they instilled a reading habit in me. I’m certain this book will also have a similar effect on any child.
“Hope always triumphs over experience & love is stronger than death.” This is what I found resonating throughout this book, “The Great & the Small.” I definitely recommend this book to people of all age groups. I’m certain that children as well as grown-ups would love it immensely.
Many thanks and gratitude to author A.T. Balsara and Booktasters for providing a copy of the book for an honest review.
I’m sure we’ve all encountered these little creatures and have reacted in various ways. But this beautiful book will offer a fascinating perspective from the rats’ standpoint. With a simple plot and engaging characters, the author has weaved a riveting tale of love, loyalty, friendships, kindness, courage, and fortitude. The charisma of a Leader (Papa), the fierceness of a mother’s protective love (Nia & Pip), the camaraderie of a dear friend (Fin & Scratch), and the eclectic impact of kindness (Ananda) are only a few examples of what the characters in this book represent. And now, after having heard so much from the rats, I’ll try not to bellow when I see them next time ;^)
What I like the most about this book is that it advocates for the goodness in everyone. We know that in times of war & conflict, cynicism is often unavoidable. You’re always on the look-out for betrayals. Mistakes are also made. But the key value I took out of this book is that trusting people is not a naivety, it can also be a strength. If Fin is to succeed in his endeavor, he would surely need the aid of his most-trusted friends. As an adventurous rat, Fin witnessed unspeakable horrors meted out to his kind by the Two-Legs. It is only natural for him to grow indignant against them & demand justice. But the whole world as he knew it, was about to turn on its head because of a simple act of kindness.
“What would you do when your whole worldview is shaken?”
“Would you do what is right, even if it means going against those who truly love and care about you?”
Fin wrestles with this conflict and learns that one needs courage to face our fears. And only in struggling with it do we find the strength & clarity to do what is right. We see this in how all the predicaments & calamities assailing Fin molded him into a stronger Tunnel Rat.
Reading this book was such a delight especially accompanied by such beautiful illustrations. I truly commend the author for putting such a great effort. I will remember this book very fondly. I still remember the first book I ever read as a little child: it was an illustrated edition of Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book. Even after all these years I remember those pictures & how they instilled a reading habit in me. I’m certain this book will also have a similar effect on any child.
“Hope always triumphs over experience & love is stronger than death.” This is what I found resonating throughout this book, “The Great & the Small.” I definitely recommend this book to people of all age groups. I’m certain that children as well as grown-ups would love it immensely.
Many thanks and gratitude to author A.T. Balsara and Booktasters for providing a copy of the book for an honest review.
November 27, 2024
A.T. Balsara’s The Great & the Small masterfully weaves together human and animal perspectives to explore trauma, survival, and connection through the poignant story of Ananda, a grief-stricken teenager with a unique gift, and Fin, a loyal Tunnel rat, whose lives become inextricably linked after a chance encounter at a market.
Balsara skillfully portrays the vulnerabilities and inner conflicts of both protagonists through alternating perspectives. Ananda’s intense grief and feelings of isolation are vividly conveyed, making her path to healing genuinely relatable. In contrast, Fin’s narrative presents a dark exploration of loyalty and power, as he navigates his role in the Chairman’s ruthless schemes. These parallel storylines not only mirror but also enrich each other, emphasizing the shared suffering and resilience of both characters.
The world-building in The Great & the Small is both vivid and unnerving, with the underground tunnels inhabited by Fin and the rats pulsing with tension, reflecting the pervasive fear and manipulation in their society. Meanwhile, the human world above is heavy with sorrow and disconnection, making the impending collision between these two realms feel both inevitable and heartbreaking. Yet, Balsara’s writing skillfully counterbalances this darkness with flashes of unexpected beauty, revealing glimmers of hope even in the bleakest settings.
Balsara’s narrative weaves a poignant tale that transcends the story of a girl and a rat, delving into themes of power, empathy, and the lasting impact of past experiences. This thought-provoking exploration challenges readers to look beyond the surface, highlighting the resilience needed to confront personal darkness, making The Great & the Small a heart-wrenching yet inspiring read that lingers long after completion.
Balsara skillfully portrays the vulnerabilities and inner conflicts of both protagonists through alternating perspectives. Ananda’s intense grief and feelings of isolation are vividly conveyed, making her path to healing genuinely relatable. In contrast, Fin’s narrative presents a dark exploration of loyalty and power, as he navigates his role in the Chairman’s ruthless schemes. These parallel storylines not only mirror but also enrich each other, emphasizing the shared suffering and resilience of both characters.
The world-building in The Great & the Small is both vivid and unnerving, with the underground tunnels inhabited by Fin and the rats pulsing with tension, reflecting the pervasive fear and manipulation in their society. Meanwhile, the human world above is heavy with sorrow and disconnection, making the impending collision between these two realms feel both inevitable and heartbreaking. Yet, Balsara’s writing skillfully counterbalances this darkness with flashes of unexpected beauty, revealing glimmers of hope even in the bleakest settings.
Balsara’s narrative weaves a poignant tale that transcends the story of a girl and a rat, delving into themes of power, empathy, and the lasting impact of past experiences. This thought-provoking exploration challenges readers to look beyond the surface, highlighting the resilience needed to confront personal darkness, making The Great & the Small a heart-wrenching yet inspiring read that lingers long after completion.
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