Small Great Things A Complete Summary It is not surprising that Jodi Picoult's novel 'Small Great Things' became a best-seller. Ruth, an African-American nurse, tends to a newborn white child against the parents' wishes, and the child dies suddenly. The discovery that Ruth was present at the time of the baby's death provides the conflict that gives 'Small Great Things' it amazing potential. Throughout the story, the author touches on themes such as...