This is the most unique book I’ve ever read. It was psychologically fascinating and heartbreaking. 

A really unique book, presented as a fascinating and believable stream of consciousness. The main character is elusive and knowable all at once which fits the fragmented style. The only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars is that the layout was sometimes a bit too confusing and it was tough to know where to focus my attention. I also don’t think this book will be for everyone. Check the triggers before you pick it up

At first, this felt like I was in an aural exhibit at a contemporary museum (I read the audiobook). Mainly in the sense that I had no idea what was going on but intuitively knew that this was art (the kind that no one understands).

But, little scratch is actually so much more accessible than it seems at first glance. Watson’s depiction of mental health and trauma deeply resonated with me and I was simultaneously miserable and overjoyed listening to this. Not only does she perfectly encapsulate the stream of consciousness in a granular but compelling way, but her storytelling is unbelievably unique.

A major content warning—there is graphic reference to SGBV and it can be discomforting/disheartening to follow such a close-up portrayal of mental illness but WOW. If you can stomach the very, very heavy content, I would recommend this book to everyone. I’m genuinely astonished by Watson’s creativity and brilliance.

(Small nitpicky thing… The story takes place over the course of one day [which only adds to its sharpness] but the character’s only real relationships are: their significant other, their mother, and their ancillary relationships with co-workers that barely know them. Do you they not have friends? Other loved ones? It just seems unusual to isolate the character so much. But maybe that’s the point.)

This book completely drew me in from the very beginning. It’s definitely one to go into with an open mind as it’s not a conventional book, but I feel like it’s a totally necessary one to read. The thought processes of the unnamed protagonist take you through so many different emotions, and made this a completely unique reading experience. I’m so so pleased I read it!

Unique, interesting read. Experimental formatting and writing style. Felt very real and raw. A good depiction of OCD and trauma.

Little Scratch details every single thought the protagonist has over a single 24 hour period, some time after being raped. It details the wild monotony of her day, while trying to make it to the next. The writing style is incredibly (& intentionally) disjointed, that made it difficult (& again, likely at least somewhat intentionally) hard to follow. I got anxiety just READING her thoughts, & know that is the reality of so many people (myself included, sometimes).

Be prepared to FEEL the anxiety if you want to read this - there is no way around it. If you struggle with severe anxiety or mental health issues, I can see the book being both extremely triggering & extremely relatable.