The Booklover's Library

Set In Wartime Nottingham: The novel takes place in Nottingham, England, beginning in 1939 as World War II looms. This setting offers a fresh perspective for readers familiar with London-based wartime stories. The city's factories made it a target for German bombers during the Blitz.

Based On Real Libraries: Boots Booklover's Library actually existed in England. These subscription lending libraries operated inside Boots Chemist shops across the country. They featured tiered membership systems with Class A and Class B subscribers who paid different fees for varying levels of service and access to new books.

A Widow's Struggle: Protagonist Emma Taylor faces legal restrictions that prohibited widows with children from most employment in 1930s England. This marriage bar made it nearly impossible for her to support herself and her daughter Olivia. She must hide her status to secure work at the library.

Tragic Family History: Emma's father died in a bookshop fire when she was younger. The family owned Tower Bookshop together, where Emma learned to recommend books by observing customers. This traumatic loss haunts her throughout the story and connects to her work at the library.

Child Evacuation Drama: When war intensifies, Emma makes the agonizing decision to evacuate seven-year-old Olivia to the countryside. Operation Pied Piper sent children from cities to rural areas for safety. The separation becomes one of the novel's most emotional threads.

A Reluctant Reader Transforms: Olivia initially has no interest in reading and prefers listening to the wireless. Her schoolwork suffers as a result. Through her mother's influence and the power of the right book recommendations, she gradually becomes a book lover herself.

Mystery In The Stacks: Books mysteriously disappear and get misshelved at the library throughout the story. This subplot adds intrigue to Emma's daily work. The resolution comes near the end of the novel.

Cameo From Previous Novel: Characters from Martin's earlier book The Last Bookshop in London make an appearance. Emma travels to London for training, where she visits the Primrose Hill Bookshop. This delightful connection rewards fans of Martin's previous work.

Author's Personal Touch: Martin modeled the character of Olivia after her own two daughters when they were ages seven to nine. She incorporated their quirks and personalities to make Olivia feel authentic. The author spent eight months researching the book, including a two-week trip to Nottingham and London.

Sensory Historical Details: Booklist gave the novel a starred review, praising it as "a feast for the senses." The book vividly captures the sound of air-raid sirens, the taste of rationed butter, and the smell of freshly brewed tea. These details immerse readers in wartime England.

International Bestseller Success: Madeline Martin is a New York Times, USA Today, and international bestselling author. Her books have been translated into over twenty-five different languages. She grew up as an Army brat in Germany, which sparked her lifelong fascination with history.

Found Family Theme: The story emphasizes how Emma and Olivia build a chosen family through their neighbors and coworkers. Characters like Mrs. Pickering, Margaret, and library patron Charles become integral to their survival and happiness. This community support proves as vital as the comfort found in books during the darkest times.

Features A Dog Named Tubby: The story includes an adorable little dog named Tubby who stays safe throughout the war. This detail reassures animal-loving readers from the start. The dog adds warmth to the community of characters surrounding Emma and Olivia.