Books Little Fires Everywhere: by Celeste Ng (Author)

"Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng is a compelling novel set in the planned community of Shaker Heights, Ohio, in the late 1990s. The story begins with the aftermath of a fire that burns down the Richardson family home, suspected to be started by Izzy Richardson, the youngest of the four Richardson children. The narrative then flashes back to the previous year, exploring the intertwined lives of the Richardsons and their tenants, Mia Warren, an artist, and her adopted daughter, Pearl.

The novel delves into themes of motherhood, identity, race, class, and the complexities of family dynamics. Pearl becomes infatuated with the Richardsons' seemingly perfect life, while Mia and Izzy form a close bond. Tensions rise around issues such as adoption, cultural identity, and social expectations, culminating in a community divided by a custody battle over a Chinese-American baby.

Izzy's act of setting the fire symbolizes her rejection of the strict rules and expectations of Shaker Heights and her desire to forge her own path. The book ends with themes of change, destruction, and new beginnings, highlighting the potential for growth even amidst loss and uncertainty.