The Paris Library

 

Janet Skeslien Charles' historical fiction, The Paris Library, is told is dual timelines. What I'd consider the main story is set in France during World War II. The other story is about young Lily, living in rural Montana, yearning to be a part of the bigger world. She's intrigued by her very private French next door neighbor and wants to learn more about her story.

Oriel had always loved books and longed to be a librarian for as long as she could remember. In the late 1930s, she's lucky enough to get a position in the American Library in Paris. Readers - and especially library lovers - will love this aspect of the novel. I know that part of the story.

What made this novel most compelling is that several of the characters were actual people who managed to keep the library open during the war. The library was an important gathering place and a place where friendships were developed. The head librarian created "The Soldier's Service" to provide serviceman with books to read during the war. It reminded me of the Kentucky Packhorse Library but during a war.

The relationships in the book developed in a natural, authentic way, ebbing and flowing the way relationships do in real life. Sometimes we recognize how much we can count on our friends and what it takes us to be good friends to them. Other times, they disappoint us and we, purposely or inadvertently, disappoint them.

The novel is about "r" esistance during the way. And yes, the fact that there's a lowercase "r" is important. This is not a story about The Resistance. I'd highly recommend it to those who recognize the importance of libraries and books.