The Underground Library by Jennifer Ryan

THE UNDERGROUND LIBRARY by Jennifer Ryan (The Kitchen Front, The Spies of Shilling Lane, The Wedding Dress Sewing Circle, and The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir) is another truly “feel good” book from this fabulous author even though it, too, is set in the perilous times of WWII. Bibliophiles will not be able to resist Ryan’s praise of libraries and the value of books: “Libraries aren't only about books; they're about people. They're about human life, how books can mend hearts, comfort wounds, and inspire us. But most of all, books can bring people together. Their ideas and thoughts make us realize that we are not alone, that we are all connected.” Most of the action of THE UNDERGROUND LIBRARY takes place in war torn London and, like Ryan’s previous works, details the support which a close-knit community, especially females, offer each other. In her latest, three young women are the main characters: Juliet Lansdown (newly hired as library deputy head and living on her own for the first time), Katie Upwood (library assistant and soon-to-be high school graduate whose young boyfriend has gone off to war), and Sofie Baumann (a Jewish refugee on a work visa and separated from her family). Each of them struggles with difficult circumstances both in her work and home/family life. Yet, each becomes more resilient in the process while also finding valuable friendships and romantic happiness. Ryan actively researches her historical fiction novels; she based this one on Bethnal Green Library which was actually hit during the Blitz and recently celebrated a century of service. More information and images from the deep level shelters are available at The London Transport Museum; Ryan also suggests exploring WW2 – The People’s War, an archive of World War Two memories written by the public and gathered by the BBC. THE UNDERGROUND LIBRARY is a March Library Reads Selection – perfect for readers looking for an inspiring, diverting tale of pulling together and overcoming hardships.