Small Lives, Big World: A Collection of Short Stories From Near and Far

The two men sat across the small waiting area studiously avoiding looking at each other directly but stealing glances every now and then, weighing each other up, judging each other, resenting each other, despising each other. A year ago, maybe more, they might have struck up a conversation, found mutual ground, solidarity in adversity and empathy. But now, like prize-fighters waiting for the bell for the last round, they were too wary, too exhausted, with too much at stake for friendship...

From Canada to Devizes, from Central America to Paris, this collection of short stories features extraordinary episodes in the lives of ordinary people; from an Ottawa suburban housewife to a middle-aged art teacher; from a Chinese shopkeeper to a 6 year old train traveller; from a Private in the World War 1 trenches to a girl with an unusually named cat.

The tragedies and despair, the triumphs and joys of everyday life affect men, women and children all over the world. What unites us across languages and cultures, oceans and borders, are our tears and laughter, fears and dreams, and, above all, love and the hope for a new day.

Sometimes funny, sometimes touching, whether set in a tropical backwater, a factory office, the Palais Royal or on the Edinburgh Express, these stories invite you to travel along with the characters and share their lives for just a little while. No matter your destination, be sure to enjoy the journey.

Small Lives, Big World is a quirky and inventive collection that will particularly appeal to well-travelled readers and those with an interest in different cultures.