Book Review: Little Ghosts by Gregg Dunnett
As someone who finds solace in both writing and adventure, I was instantly drawn to Little Ghosts by Gregg Dunnett. With his background as a windsurfing journalist and a deep-rooted love for the ocean, Dunnett’s storytelling feels rejuvenating, evoking the intricate dance between reality and the mysteries that surround us.
Set against the backdrop of coastal landscapes—something Dunnett effortlessly understands and depicts—Little Ghosts explores themes of loss, nostalgia, and the phantoms that often linger in the corners of our lives. The story revolves around a group of characters who grapple with their pasts, each harboring their own emotional baggage, reminiscent echoes of choices they’ve made. As Dunnett guides us through their journeys, I found myself reflecting on my own ghosts, the experiences we sometimes try to outrun but must ultimately face.
Dunnett’s writing style is as fluid as the tides he so adores. His prose dances between the thrilling and the haunting, crafting a narrative that feels both urgent and contemplative. The pacing is well-balanced—just when I thought I could catch my breath, a plot twist would pull me deeper into the story, keeping me hooked until the very last page. Each chapter unveiled not just plot developments but also layers of human emotion, making me sympathize and sometimes even recoil from the characters’ choices.
A standout moment for me was when one character reflects on “the memories we choose to carry.” This line struck a chord, reminding me of the heavy yet beautiful interplay between memory and identity. Dunnett has a gift for encapsulating profound truths in seemingly simple phrases, allowing readers to connect on a deeply personal level.
Little Ghosts also instills a sense of adventure—not only in the literal sense but in the adventure of self-discovery. The exploration of our pasts and how they shape our present feels particularly poignant in times when many of us seek clarity amidst chaos.
I believe this book will resonate with readers who enjoy psychological thrillers tinged with emotional depth. Fans of literary fiction that embraces the complexity of human experience will find a kindred spirit in Dunnett’s words.
Reading Little Ghosts has been a reflective journey for me, one that lingered long after I turned the final page. It’s a reminder of the adventures we undertake not just across oceans, but within ourselves—reminding us to face our ghosts head-on. I can’t recommend it enough for those seeking a beautifully crafted story that delicately intertwines adventure, emotion, and exploration of the self.