Review: The Paris Library

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

Hooter: Based on the true events of the librarians of the American Library in Paris who weathered the Nazi occupation of Paris with the power of hope that books can only bring.

Always had a soft spot for historical fiction and this doesn't disappoint as the narrative alternates between a young Ordelie in '39 France and an older one in the 80's as she lives her life - sibling bonds, uncommon friendships, unexpected love and other regular things all in the backdrop of an impending World War and subsequent invasion.

Wonderfully summarised in the mission statement of ALP - “After the darkness of war, the light of books.” Books and the love for it stay a common thread through the flashbacks whilst the modern timeline focuses on Odelies young neighbour Lilly as she learns to deal with struggles in her life and a chance encounter with Odelie and the ensuing friendship for standing her ground allows for a role model / mentor / friend for Lilly as she deals with coming of age and associated challenges.

Lilly's story is an add on akin to loitering off the garden path but you tend to not stray too far away wanting to figure where the main path leads to - life under occupation for the regular staff and subscribers at the American Library in Paris. The Library protector made for an interesting character in the mix where you'd want to paint him as a villain at first shot.

There is a dash of French romance which makes for a cute story trying to balance the stark and dark reality under which it is blossoming to balance the book out. For me the celebration of books is the nicest takeaway from this book.



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