WAS IT POSSIBLE THAT ONE DAY I COULD INSPIRE IN OTHERS THE SAME HAPPINESS THAT MUDDY SEEMED TO INSPIRE IN ME?

It is 2005 in Great Britain, and Harley is a young Black queer man struggling to find his place in the world. After dropping out of university and returning home, he feels like a failure and a mess. One day, in the woods, just as Harley is about to commit a drastic and irreversible act, a tall, lanky stranger emerges from the bushes holding binoculars and stops him.

Muddy is an enthusiastic birdwatcher whose zest for life makes others feel good around him. He is a rugby and Oasis fanatic and soon becomes a loyal friend to Harley, whose enthusiasm is contagious and whose dimples are irresistible. They quickly become soulmates. Harley begins to believe that life might be worth living, while Muddy discovers things about himself that his rugby teammates may not understand.

However, when several figures from the past threaten to drag Harley back into the depths of his depression, his only hope is Muddy and the small joys they create together.

Small Joys is an epic, moving, funny, and tender novel about ordinary lives that introduces us to an unforgettable cast of characters and a new great literary talent.

“This kind-hearted, funny debut is an ode to queer friendship and chosen family... It’s a tender novel about finding your people, being vulnerable, and celebrating all joys, big or small.” BuzzFeed