You know those books that you start expecting one thing … and it turns out to be the complete opposite?
… but it’s OK, because it’s magical and wonderful and might have (maybe) made you cry a bit?
Ladies and gentlemen: I give you The Little Snake.
What happens?
The Little Snake is a fairy tale-esque novella that tells the story of Mary and her friend Lanmo.
Lanmo, who is a little golden snake.
Lanmo, who has a lovely speaking voice, a fierce sense of loyalty, and who may or may not actually be a death god.
Mary meets Lanmo while playing in her garden one day. He’s impressed by her spirit, imagination, and kindness … and the fact that Mary is the first person able to see her.
The two become fast friends — and Lanmo comes back to visit her often across the years. Mary grows, while Lanmo learns what it is to love, suffer, and be human.
What I liked:
The writing. The Little Snake is one of those books that read like a fairy tale: whimsical and rhythmic; hopeful, but with a dark undercurrent.
Lanmo. Oh, he is a total joy. If death gods are like Lanmo, none of us have anything to fear. Factoid: I learned after finishing the book that Lanmo is inspired by the snake in The Little Prince.
What I didn’t like:
The pacing. The start of this novella is gorgeous. It’s slow and thoughtful, and we get to learn a lot. But, then it’s over. The last 20-ish pages see 60-80 years of Mary’s life flash by.
Favourite quote:
Mary told him quietly, “Love is a terrible thing.”
“So it seems,” whispered Lanmo. “But it is also wonderful.”
Final thoughts:
Despite its fairy tale-like structure, I wouldn’t call this a children’s book. Sure: the language is gorgeous and child-friendly, but the humour, themes, and philosophy are … well, profound. This is one of those books that should be read – and should be pondered – and should be re-read. It is one of those books that will sit with you for many, many days after.
The details:
- The Book: The Little Snake by A. L. Kennedy
- Published: 2018, Canongate Books
- My Copy: Library copy
- Read date: October 10-13, 2020
- Rating/5: 🐍🐍🐍🐍
The Geeky Jock 