The Good Reader Blog

The Good Reader Blog
Source of the painting - Couch on the Porch, Cos Cob, Frederick Childe Hassam, 1914

Monday, July 15, 2024

Book Review: The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles

The Paris Library The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Paris Library tells the story of the American Library in Paris during World War II.  Odile is a lover of books, has memorized the Dewey Decimal System, and is overjoyed when she gets her first job there just before the war.  Together with her colleagues they provide books during the war to their subscribers as well as the soldiers in battle.  An incredible library, along with dedicated library staff members who truly serve their readers. 

In alternating chapters there is also the story of Lily, a teenager in rural Montana during the 1980s.  She befriends an elderly neighbor who provides her with a place of refuge from Lily's challenging family life, while learning more about her neighbor's background.

I was surprised and delighted to find out that this book was based on true events and people!

Our book club had a great discussion about this book, and for once everyone was in agreement that it was a great book.  This book had many of the things I thoroughly enjoy in a story:  librarians, libraries, books, reading, historical fiction, and Paris.  

Read more of my reviews at https://thegoodreader13.blogspot.com/.

View all my reviews

Book Review: The Secret by Lee Child (Jack Reacher #28)

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