Small Spaces
Age 14+
Children's & Young Adult Fiction & True Stories
Small Spaces is a gripping YA thriller from debut Australian author Sarah Epstein, perfect for fans of Fleur Ferris. 14+.
“We don’t pick and choose what to be afraid of. Our fears pick us.”
Tash Carmody has been traumatised since childhood, when she witnessed her gruesome imaginary friend Sparrow lure young Mallory Fisher away from a carnival. At the time nobody believed Tash, and she has since come to accept that Sparrow wasn’t real. Now fifteen and mute, Mallory’s never spoken about the week she went missing. As disturbing memories resurface, Tash starts to see Sparrow again. And she realizes Mallory is the key to unlocking the truth about a dark secret connecting them. Does Sparrow exist after all? Or is Tash more dangerous to others than she thinks?
"A beautifully crafted psychological thriller. I couldn't put it down." Fleur Ferris
Creators
Sarah Epstein spent her childhood drawing, daydreaming and cobbling together books at the kitchen table. A writer, illustrator and designer, she grew up in suburban Sydney and now lives in Melbourne with her husband and two sons. She is passionate about YA, especially the thriller genre, which is her favourite to read. Small Spaces is her first novel.
Reviews
Small Spaces is an incredible debut. Not only is it deliciously creepy, its twists and turns keep you guessing all the way through. I’d recommend enlisting the company of a stuffed animal if you’re reading this one past bedtime.
Looney Literate
Small Spaces is a remarkable debut psychological thriller by Aussie author Sarah Epstein. The story will give you shivers and is full of twists and turns which you must decide are real or all made up in the character’s head.
The Fictional Realm
Epstein’s portentous narrative is high-wire taunt and just as nerve wracking.
Boomerang Books
This first novel is a psychological thriller for high school students and young adults that will have you spellbound from start to finish. The finish will have you panting for breath and screaming at the characters to get a bloody grip. It is frightening.
Bob's Books
Epstein has a keen eye for family dynamics and the small moments of disillusionment with adults that occur throughout childhood. The story is similarly thoughtful about the emotional toll of women whose stories aren’t believed.
Books+Publishing
