“They want us to be small, so we have to stand tall. They want us to be invisible, so we have to be seen. They want us to be quiet, so we have to be heard. They want us to surrender, so we have to fight.” 

 

Wholly delightful.  A warm hug of a book.  

 

Rule no. 2- Never talk to strangers on a train.  

 

Iona has very set ideas about commuting which are outlined in 5 exact rules.  And those rules worked incredibly well until a man almost choked to death on a grape right in front of her.  

 

Serendipitously, that incident created a supportive, even if unlikely, community out of an eclectic mix of passengers and just when it was needed most.   

 

The story is told by an ensemble cast of vividly depicted characters.  Pooley weaves distinct storylines as she explores the range of complicated lives kept hidden behind well maintained facades.  

 

Each character is memorable, but for me, it was Iona who stole the show.  Eccentric, quirky, and full of vigor. When Iona was prepared with crystal and pink gin for her commute home (Rule no 5- Always pack for any eventuality), she completely and totally won me over.  And much like her astutely packed bag, Iona proved the dependable and vibrant hub of the group. 

Equal parts funny and poignant, this book completely charmed me and made me want to stand tall.  With its reminder of the power of community, I came away from Platform 5 fully uplifted.