When Avis' brother goes off to war, she takes over his job as librarian. The problem is two-fold: first, she doesn't read, except magazines, and second, the private library's owner is determined to close the library. Avis convinces the owner that the library serves an important role in the small town Maine community, and that the book club she's starting is a legitimate war-time activity to honor the required blackouts. Now, she just needs to find members to actually attend, and she has to actually start reading books.
Reminiscent of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, the idea of this novel was so creative, and ideal for book lovers. The desperate forming of the bookclub brings together members of the community, some of whom were reluctant readers, but eager for company or free food, and it combined readers of surprising literary tastes. I loved the variety of texts that they covered, and how they included everyone, from the youngest child, to the widowed pawn shop owner. By the end, these characters were drawn together by more than books, and cared for each for more than their literary contributions.
There were maybe a few too many main characters to feel that they were covered adequately, but they were a unique lot and their friendships were intricate and enriched the novel.
4 stars, and I am always eager to see more from this author!
You can find The Blackout Book Club HERE.
You can find the author HERE.
I received a digital copy of this book, via NetGalley, from the publisher, in exchange for my honest review.
