This is not what I was expecting with a sequel to the first book, but that is in no way a bad thing.
Once again the idea of small unsuspecting characters being explored in a big story is present. How many books have you read about an alien cleaning crew? Was a first for me but I am glad I did.
Small world is a frontier story in a sense. The characters are taken to a strange new environment where they have to learn to survive its harsh environment all while trying to build a new society. Just like the first book you will fall in love with the characters, laugh with them, cry with them, and fear for them during the hard parts.
Once again Piers Ryman does a stellar job with the narration. He reads the characters with conviction and brings each and every one of them to life.