I really enjoyed reading this book and had difficulty putting it down. A well written and well planned book that tells the story of the American Library in Paris and the Occupation by Nazis in Paris and at the same time teaching French to a young girl in Montana while guiding her as she lived her life. A must read!

The Paris Library is a magnificent book centred around The American Library located in Paris during World War II. There are a wonderful diverse cast of characters that spend their days at the library. Through them we learn not only about beautiful books but how their lives were affected by the war. These characters come from many different countries and backgrounds yet the develop the deepest friendships.

In the book we then jump ahead 40 plus years where Odile, one of the wonderful characters from the library now lives. The story then goes from past to present where she Meets her young neighbour Lily and she begins to teach her French while slowly revealing her past to Lily. Odile finds Lily is much like she was when she was younger, rash and quick to anger. Their friendship is heartwarming and adds so much to the book. They help each other to overcome tragedy and the more mundane things of everyday life. Their friendship is unbreakable

All of the characters are unique and have a depth that makes me able to picture them vividly. I was swept away by each of their stories, some heartwarming and many heartbreaking. The Paris Library is a book about true friendship and love and what we will do for those we care about. It is also about human nature and how our actions can affect not only us but many others. It is about learning from your mistakes and forgiveness.

I loved Odile and her flaws only made her more believable and likeable. You will be brought to tears, you will laugh, you will hurt and you will feel forgiveness as you read this book. I can’t thank NetGalley, Simon and Schuster and Janet Skeslien Charles for the opportunity to read this book which is based on facts and real people. You will not be able to put this book down.