The Paris Library - Janet Skeslien Charles

The Paris Library

By Janet Skeslien Charles

  • Release Date: 2021-02-09
  • Genre: Historical Fiction
Score: 4.5
4.5
From 1,529 Ratings

Description

An instant New York Times, Washington Post, and USA TODAY bestseller—based on the true story of the heroic librarians at the American Library in Paris during World War II—The Paris Library is a moving and unforgettable “ode to the importance of libraries, books, and the human connections we find within both” (Kristin Harmel, New York Times bestselling author).

Paris, 1939: Young and ambitious Odile Souchet seems to have the perfect life with her handsome police officer beau and a dream job at the American Library in Paris. When the Nazis march into the city, Odile stands to lose everything she holds dear, including her beloved library. Together with her fellow librarians, Odile joins the Resistance with the best weapons she has: books. But when the war finally ends, instead of freedom, Odile tastes the bitter sting of unspeakable betrayal.

Montana, 1983: Lily is a lonely teenager looking for adventure in small-town Montana. Her interest is piqued by her solitary, elderly neighbor. As Lily uncovers more about her neighbor’s mysterious past, she finds that they share a love of language, the same longings, and the same intense jealousy, never suspecting that a dark secret from the past connects them.

“A love letter to Paris, the power of books, and the beauty of intergenerational friendship” (Booklist), The Paris Library shows that extraordinary heroism can sometimes be found in the quietest places.

Reviews

  • A favorite

    5
    By JAS SA
    Loved every page of it.
  • The Paris Library

    5
    By Flicka Dee
    This was an exceptional book to read. I had thoughts of the book during the workday and would ask myself, “I wonder what is happening at the library?” I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the way the author told the story. Thank you for sharing this gift.
  • Engaging and heartbreaking!

    5
    By Donnushka
    Having grown up as the child of a survivor from Poland, this portrait of bravery and survival in Paris is both surprising and comforting.
  • Good book, but left loose ends

    4
    By Jaxon34
    I really enjoyed the history and characters in this book and was absorbed by them. WWII history is one of my favorite time periods to read about. My only reason for holding back a star was the fact there were several loose ends that didn’t get resolved. (Spoiler alert) like what happened to the story line with Paul after Odile leaves? That made no sense to me to have no follow up. And no resolution with her best friend? Also, what was the point of the love interest for Lily if that doesn’t get explored? I was definitely invested in the story and characters so much, that these unresolved issues has left me irritated. So maybe the author accomplished what she set out to do and has kept me engaged after finishing the book. ☺️
  • The Paris Library

    4
    By Amma Jan
    I found this a little tedious, but loved how she tied the stories together at the end. Worth a read if you like books and history.
  • The Paris Library

    5
    By Joanabake
    I loved this book. It combines my love for France with my love for reading, libraries of my youth and incredible true stories of real people during WW II.
  • Fascinating History

    5
    By cathjar
    The American Library in Paris is as important as the characters in this true life drama.The amazing people who kept the library open during the occupation of Paris took my breath away.
  • Outstanding!

    4
    By gypsyflutterby
    I loved this book and couldn’t put it down. I love historical fiction and this book was well done. Skipping between two very separate worlds and then bringing them together so effortlessly was inspiring.
  • The Paris library

    5
    By Nanna Rara
    Beautiful book, had no idea, thought it was just a made up story. Sooo glad I bought that book
  • Amazing!

    5
    By Maverickio
    I loved this book from beginning to end. The characters are so nuanced and you can’t help but fall in love with Odile. This story is beautifully written and serves as a reminder to never forget the atrocities that occurred during the war.