46 pages • 1 hour read
Janet Skeslien CharlesThe Paris Library: A Novel
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Published in 2021, Janet Skeslien Charles's The Paris Library: A Novel intertwines the stories of Odile, who works at the American Library in Paris during the Nazi occupation, and Lily, a young girl in 1980s Montana discovering her own path. The narrative explores themes of courage, intellectual curiosity, and the value of friendship as Odile navigates wartime challenges and Lily finds inspiration in Odile's past. The book contains themes of war, loss, and complex emotional dynamics.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Janet Skeslien Charles's The Paris Library is praised for its rich historical detail and engaging narrative, adeptly juggling dual timelines. The novel's exploration of friendship and resilience during WWII captivates many readers, though some find the pacing uneven and certain characters underdeveloped. Overall, it’s a compelling read with minor flaws.
Who Should Read The Paris Library?
Readers who enjoy historical fiction with rich, emotional narratives, and a love for literature will appreciate The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles. Fans of The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr will find this book appealing for its WWII backdrop and intergenerational storytelling.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsBook Details
Historical Fiction
Auto/Biographical Fiction
History: European
WWII / World War II
Emotions/Behavior: Love
Emotions/Behavior: Forgiveness
Life/Time: Coming of Age