Little Bee (US)
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“Most days I wish I was a British pound coin instead of an African girl.” READ THE FIRST CHAPTER OF ‘LITTLE BEE’ “Little Bee will blow you away” – WASHINGTON POST “There’s one true story in particular that made me determined to write the novel.” “We must see all scars as beauty. Okay? This will be our secret” “Where can I learn more about Nigeria, London, and the real world of refugees and asylum seekers?” |
* NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER * Shortlisted for the 2008 Costa Novel Award * Nominated for the 2009 Commonwealth Writers’ Prize for Best Book * Longlisted for IMPAC Dublin Literary Award * A New York Times Book Review Editors’ Choice |
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| Note: LITTLE BEE is published in the UK, Ireland and Australia as THE OTHER HAND | |||

Entries (RSS)
Brilliant. The voices spoke to the reader’s soul. I am not disturbed by the ending any more than by the entire reality of our world. Each decision we make has consequences and affects others – we are really not separate, are we? As Bee said, there really isn’t a “them”. Brilliant, Mr Cleave, and lasting.
The juxtaposition of children playing in a kitchen and pretending to be in the jungle and children playing in a’ jungle and pretending to be in a kitchen was breathtaking.
Mr. Cleave – I can not stop thinking about Little Bee. What became of her and how strong she had to be. I was amazed by your ability to find the voice of a 16 year old Nigerian girl and make her so utterly believable. Not one sentence she spoke or thought sounded forced or fake. Just beautifully done. A wonderful book. Little Bee broke my heart.
Hello Chris,
As a resident of Texas, I am fascinated with the subject of refugees and the “business” of incarcerating them. I see the symbolic meaning in your choice of ending LITTLE BEE, but I must say that I am left a bit empty. Indeed, Bee does deserve to live a full, safe, and happy life, but don’t we all? Although I understand, I think, your leaving the reader with as many questions as answers, but the bereft feeling I still harbor (three days after finishing the book) is difficult to shake. Thank you for touching so many people in such a profound way. I hope that your lovely story ripples far into the future!
Stephanie
I am so moved by the story of Little Bee……I live in the US and did not know of the oil wars in Nigeria…..I do know that Little Bee, Nkiruka, Charile and Sarah are all survivors…..they all have a story….Little Bee is a beautiful, kind and caring human being who truly understands the meaning of life….I am sure there are miillions of Little Bees drifting around throughout the world….fearful and running….I hope this book bings awarenss to more people and creates some more “human understanding, appreciation and kindness” into the world. Thank you for sharing and I look forward to more.