This book has a premise that sounds very simple, but the story it tells is so beautiful and profound.
The 3 POV characters are all very different from each other and don’t even like each other very much, but they’re more similar to each other than they know (to the point where one of them reads another one’s poetry on the internet and doesn’t know it’s her).
The characters are also so well-rounded, especially for people whose lives we don’t see outside of the bookstore they work at. We only follow these characters for 24 hours but we know them so well by the end. And of course 2 of the main characters are the very sassy unapologetic sort that Aminah Mae Safi writes so well.

As a former bookseller at an indie bookstore in Chicago, I can't tell you how Amazing this book is! I loved all the characters, but especially Danielle, Imogen and Rhinn It was just really nice to read about the Love of a bookstore (And books, obviously) bringing people together. I though that the author did a great job nailing down the wonderfulness (And not so wonderfulness) of working at a bookstore. This is a great, heartwarming read and I definitely recommend this book!

This story brought me so much joy! The main POV characters are very relatable and you’ll root for them all. The story takes place within 24 hours, making it a binge-able page-turner. They all have to process that the bookstore they all work at and love is closing. This novel perfectly encapsulates a love of books and the magic of bookstores. One obstacle leads into another as they all race against time to do what they can to save their safe haven. It’s here, it’s queer and it’s filled with existential fear, in the best possible way. When I was younger I rarely felt seen in young adult fiction, I am glad that the generation below me will have books like this one. I look forward to reading Safi's previously published works. I often have issues with how YA books I've read can portray mental health, but Safi really does it justice here. A small detail that makes this book different from others is that even the side characters feel real, fleshed out and authentic. This book has come out at the perfect time, it's light, but also hard-hitting, and it reminds us why we must come together and how we can. This book is out June 9th. Underneath all the obstacles is a joyous and hopeful message. Go pick it up, you’ll want to give it a big hug when you reach the last page.

I could definitely tell Safi enjoyed Empire Records. Like, a lot. The book at times toed the line between homage and ripoff, but in the end, it told enough of its own story, and allowed its characters to shine through and evolve over the course of the novel enough to assume its own place as a work of thoughtful fiction.