Will I love The Librarian of Burned Books?

A book with disturbing lessons for our time. This book charts the lives of three women during the 1930s and 40s as the Nazis rise to power and use book burning as a tool to destroy culture and freedom of expression. I adored and was completely captivated by the clever way the author wove a complicated story between three women in three different cities and times. 

Almost a character in itself is the spectre of book censorship and the damage it can inflict on society. This book has some very moving scenes–a burgeoning lesbian love affair, a children's game amid… show more.

Like many readers, I love stories about books. I also enjoy novels set in multiple periods.

In this one, set in 1933 Berlin, 1936 Paris, and 1944 New York City, Labuskes skillfully weaves the timelines together. There are many novels about World War II and the years before it, but this one offers perspectives unlike any I’ve read before. I was also touched by learning about the Council of Books in Wartime, consisting of booksellers, publishers, librarians, and authors, who chose books to be sent to those fighting the war.

The books were printed in dimensions to fit into a… show more.