A sequel to Charles’ The Paris Library which alternates between Paris during the Nazi occupation and a small Montana town to which the protagonist (Odile) flees about 40 years later. In this “chapter,” Lily Jacobson, the young girl Odile befriended in Montana, gets a chance to go to Paris and work in the same American Library that meant so much to Odile in the 40s. The story — MUCH less depressing than the last (as there are no Nazis in this one) — alternates Lily’s experiences with short character vignettes on others in the library community.
The best part of the book for me are these characters and the way they come together to maintain an under-funded, increasingly shabby, but definitely beloved library. Characters range from library staff, to volunteers, to patrons, to a live-in (hidden) homeless person. And the rather two-dimensional and all around loser — the current Library Director. My favorite chapter is the first, introducing Head Librarian Lorenzo Bruni who complains bitterly (but also quite humorously) about the annoying habits of the Public and all of the things he is not allowed to do. I wonder why that appealed to me so much?
It’s a charming story with a happily-ever-after style ending, and lots of literary and artistic references. While I found all of the characters to be interesting people (they all love libraries, so how could I not??), I would have preferred a little more depth, but overall I quite enjoyed my last read of the year (finishing exactly two hours before the New Year began!)
Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. The book will be published on May 5th, 2026.
Books to look forward to ... 