At the same time, I heard hushed, terror-filled stories from relatives were Jewish about the atrocities committed by the Nazis. In 1939, idealistic, courageous, and ambitious Odile Souchet works at the American Library in Paris when the Nazis arrive. Paris, 1939: Young and ambitious Odile Souchet seems to have the perfect life with her handsome police officer beau and a dream job at the American Library in Paris. Her interest is piqued by her solitary, elderly neighbor. You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Is there anything new here? If you love libraries and are interested in how a library stayed open during the entire war in the center of conflict, The Paris Library is a great book club choice. The friendship between the two has grown so strong that Odile wants Margaret to be her matron of honor when she marries Paul, who has proposed to her. Do you think that Odile knew that there would be consequences to telling Paul or not? Malaysian fantasy writer Zen Cho lands multiple awards by breaking frontiers, Poojitha Menons first solo sculptural exhibition Talking Heads chronicles her journey into clay, Sneakertopia at Singapores ArtScience Museum shows how street art drives interest in sneakers, Malachi Edwin Vethamani keeps poetry alive by giving voice to things others may not care about, HSBC Malaysias mosaic lions find new home at Tun Razak Exchange KL. Lily is a lonely teenager desperate to escape small-town Montana. Paris, 1939: Young and ambitious Odile Souchet has it all: her handsome police officer beau and a dream job at the American Library in Paris. If you love reading about WWII or the time period, but have trouble getting through some of the violence and starvation that was rampant during the war, then I think you will like The Paris Library. [I think Paul is an interesting character and he illustrates some of the conflicted feelings Parisians felt about the Occupation. It is charming and moving, with a perfect balance between history and fiction., Tatiana de Rosnay, New York Times bestselling author of Sarah's Key, A fresh take on WWII France that will appeal to bibliophiles everywhere. Susan Mallery. Based upon her own experiences working at the American Library in Paris and growing up in rural Montana, Charles tells the story of "The Paris Library" with two distinct threads. And his French frienda walrus with a bushy mustache. For example, The Nightingale dealt with female Resistance couriers and the French occupation. In THE PARIS LIBRARY, the beloved library, its staff, and its subscribers come to life and remind us of both the horrors of World War II and the vital role books play in keeping us afloat in difficult times. Loyalty and betrayal? The Synopsis Paris, 1939: Young and ambitious Odile Souchet has it all: her handsome police officer beau and a dream job at the American Library in Paris. All Rights Reserved. Did you know those things happened after WWII? Both her husband and son have passed away and she doesnt seem to have any connections with her past. Librarian at the American Library. Enter your email to receive Bookclubs' newsletter with reading recommendations and the most popular book club books each month. While additional detail would have made the horrors wreaked by the Nazis and Odiles dilemmas during this time more vivid, this is a novel after all, and more than earns its place in the pantheon of WWII fiction. I think as the war ended, seeing all that Margaret had, food, money, clothing, He just snapped. After roaming the streets of Paris, Odile gravitates to the American Hospital, where she once volunteered and does so again. It shows how literature can be a means of escape, a catalyst for human connection, and a moral center in grim times. Nazi book inspector Dr. Fuchs, initially feared, turns out to be sympathetic to the Library. But when the war finally ends, instead of freedom, Odile tastes the bitter sting of unspeakable betrayal. Odiles father, a police captain, must investigate the thousands of tips from informants. Now housed in Berlins Zentral- und Landesbibliothek library, it appears to contain some sort of code, but researchers dont know where it came fromor what the code means. British literature. Janet Skeslien Charles is the award-winning author of Moonlight in Odessa and The Paris Library. Hugo's close lady friend. This time, they did not. Honestly, at times I wondered if Id stumbled onto a YA novel. When the Nazis march into Paris, Odile stands to lose everything she holds dear, including her beloved library. Again, I thought it was fine overall but I kept wanting to go back to the WWII storyline. And the sound of masticating between sentences? PARIS, 1939 Odile Souchet is obsessed with books, and her new job at the American Library in Paris - with its thriving community of students, writers and book lovers - is a dream come true. What role did her unfaithful husband play, and what was he not telling investigators? GENERAL FICTION, by As the war proceeds and the Nazis take over the city, she fears for her twin brother, who has been captured by the Germans, places herself in danger by transporting books to Jewish patrons who are forbidden to visit the library, and begins to question some of her boyfriend's actions. I do think there are stronger WWII historical fiction out there. For dessert you could serve Professor Cohens Russian cigarettes! While the novel is filled with gorgeous settings and a delightful cast of characters some of whom actually existed in real life what I loved the most about The Paris Library is the way it celebrates the power of books, libraries and storytelling. Very distracting. Here are a few food ideas from the pages of The Paris Library: Chapter 2 - Lily invites Odile over to learn more about France - chocolate chip cookies - and later, when Lily visits Odile serves her Russian cigarette cookies. I mentioned this in my review but I thought the story was fine overall. by The historical fiction genre loves dual timelines! Rogers fiance. Bookseller friend of Hugo. Still, the WWII parts were interesting and well written. Margaret is eventually attacked by Paul and when Odile learns the truthshe leaves behind Paris forever to marry an American. Professor Cohen, who is Jewish, is another who sees war coming. Odile describes them to a dying American soldier she tends to: Theres an Englishman imagine a crane wearing a paisley bow tie. I thought this one was decent overall but I had some issues with it. Carrying the guilt of betraying Margaret, Odile wears Margarets parting gift, the belt, until Lilys high school graduation. Many historical fiction stories adopt the dual timeline formatwhy do you think thats a popular choice for the genre? [Paul is interesting. By some bizarre twist of fate, a much older Odile winds up living next door to Lily, and the two form an unlikely but mutually beneficial friendship Lily gains much from Odiles well-stocked bookshelves while Odile finds renewed purpose in guiding the young girl. She recovers from her fit of jealousy with Bitsi and repairs that relationship. In fact, many of the characters in the book are based, often by actual name, on real people. Categories: Schwab, Q&A with Hannah Richell, Author of The River Home, Book Club Questions for The Dinner List by Rebecca Serle, Book Club Questions for The Girl With the Louding Voice by Abi Dar, 10 Book Club Books to Read in Summer 2023, Book Club Questions for Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano, Review: Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano, Book Club Questions for The House in the Pines by Ana Reyes, Book Club Questions for Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus, (Updated April 2023) Reeses Book Club Picks: Entire List, Book Club Questions for Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin, Book Club Questions for Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan. If you are looking for food ideas for The Paris Library, Im sure your book club will be happy to try any of the foods on this list!The Paris Library Book Club Questions and Food Ideas. Why do you think this was? When war breaks out, the Nazis are soon in Paris. The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel is another engaging WWII historical fiction novel. What did you think? There she meets a young woman who is the same age she was during the war and who badly needs a life coach. As I mentioned in the intro, recipes for books about World War II are often a challenge since most countries faced rations, if not starvation. The tough test of time involves readers. Their friendship blossoms as they help each other, offering support, hard truths, and loving backup. Her shorter work has appeared in revues such as Slice and Montana Noir. When the Nazis march into Paris, Odile stands to lose everything she holds dear, including her beloved library. Hardcover. (An awkward luncheon with a would-be suitor? Rmy is wounded in the early fighting and then in a prisoner-of-war camp, where he later perishes. The Paris Library. What are some similar books youve read? Margaret eventually tells Odile the secret of her German lover. If you'd like me to review your book, contact me! Soon thereafter, Lilys father remarries. As the older Odile and Lily become friends we learn more about Odiles regrets from wartime and the vibrant cast of readers and librarians she knew at the American Library in Paris. Review: The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles, Q&A with Kaira Rouda, Author of The Next Wife. It has been called a coming of age book, but in many regards, it is more. It is 1939, and Odile Souchet has just returned to Paris after completing library school. I know the war changes people, but wasn't this a bit extreme? You can order the book on Amazon here. Margaret is arrested as an enemy alien, but a sympathetic German releases herand then becomes her lover. Based on a true World War II story about the heroic librarians of the American Library in Paris (ALP), this book tells an unforgettable tale of romance, friendship and family in the most unusual of situations. On September 3, 1783, the United States and Great Britain signed the Treaty of Paris, formally ending the Revolutionary War. Still, though, I did enjoy learning about the real-life American Library in Paris and the push to keep reading alive during the horrors of war. The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles Publication Date: March 1, 2022 Genres: Fiction, Historical Fiction, Women's Fiction Paperback: 384 pages Publisher: Atria Books ISBN-10: 1982134208 ISBN-13: 9781982134204 The Paris Library is a historical fiction novel based on the true WWII story of the librarians at the American Library in Paris. Few in Paris recognize the looming threat of war. He knew why those apartments were empty. A Season in Hell by Rimbaud. He was doing the Nazi's dirty work. Although pragmatic, street-smart middle child Sallie is his intellectual and emotional heir, the Duke leaves his estate to her emotionally oversensitive half brother, Eddie, because hes the only boy. Over the next five years, through the Nazi Occupation of France, the ALP founded in 1920, it still stands today also becomes the main source of Odiles small joys. Jealousy? All rights reserved. Only Eva holds the answerbut will she have the strength to revisit old memories and help reunite those lost during the war? Based on a true World War II story about the heroic librarians of the American Library in Paris. Even beyond the wartime drama, her ALP communitymany of them true historical figuresare a wonderfully colorful lot. Charles herself actually lived in Paris for over a decade and even worked at The American Library in Paris, which is certainly evident when you follow her detailed descriptions of this building and the different kinds of people who occupied it. The totality of the ALPs anti-Nazi efforts seems to involve delivering books. On that note, Ive provided book club questions and a delicious food ideas for The Paris Library, so if you are looking for book club ideas and more, keep reading! 823. In a moment of anger, Odile reveals Margarets secret to Paul but immediately regrets doing so. There is a comforting element to the expectedness of the plot and odd familiarity of the characters, which is common with historical books. What do you make of her complicated friendship with Margaret? Bree is a friendly but standoffish bookstore owner who keeps everyone she knows at arms length, from guys she meets in bars to her friends. Seventeen-year-old Sallie is devoted to Eddie, who's 13, but after he commits suicide she's torn by conflicting loyalties to her weak but lovable stepmother; her fathers scheming but able sister; and her older half sister, Mary, who's next in line to inherit the Kincaid empire but has not lived in Claiborne Country since her parents divorced. Each day, they light a stinky cheroot and debate. Her friendship with Lily does open the door to her past and causes her to reflect and maybe see past events in a different light. One night in search of lost time. How do you think Odile helps her cope with that? Together, in ways they least expect it, Odile and Lily will help each other conquer old fears, forgive past sins, and embrace the future. Your email address will not be published. 841. With a new job and a new love, Odiles future looks bright. Her father refuses to help the Professor. Join the Bookclubs newsletter for monthly reading recommendations,book club tips, giveaways, and more. For The Paris Library, I provide your book club with a brief summary, food ideas, and discussion questions in that order!if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'bookclubbites_com-box-3','ezslot_6',132,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-bookclubbites_com-box-3-0'); If you are a fan of WWII fiction, then you know that in the last few years there has been a boom of great historical novels from the time period that feature unique aspects of the war. Using her own life experiences, Odile guides Lily to accept her overprotective father and her stepmother, who is struggling with two baby boys. I also loved all of the mentions of Zora Neale Hurstons Their Eyes Were Watching God in the novel, a personal favorite of mine! Just as Odile told Margarets secret so many years ago, Lily almost told Mary Louises boyfriend about an affair that Mary Louise had. Well, in terms of the American Library in Paris (The Paris Library of the title), there is. This post contains links to products that I may receive compensation from at no additional cost to you. My novel, The Paris Library, tells the true tale of the international team of librarians who defied the Nazis in order to hand-deliver books to Jewish readers. Chapter-by-chapter summaries and multiple sections of expert analysis, The ultimate resource for assignments, engaging lessons, and lively book discussions. Why do you think Odile continued to wear the red belt 40 years later? Paris, 1939: Young and ambitious Odile Souchet has it all: her handsome police officer beau and a dream job at the American Library in Paris. First Edition. The readers added a drama that was, I thought, wrong. Did it feel like you were reading a YA novel and a historical novel? The Paris Library is superbly researched and has a plot twist at the end that I didn't expect. Courtesy of Elizabeth Yoon. Paris, 1939: Young and ambitious Odile Souchet has it all: her handsome police officer beau and a dream job at the American Library in Paris. I hope that these elements will enrich your conversation and increase your enjoyment of The Paris Library. There she meets a young woman who is the same age she was during the war and who badly needs a life coach. Todays topic: Prousts madeleine, should it have been a croissant?. Halfway through the book, I would have rated it barely 3 stars. Janet Skeslien Charles has penned an unforgettable novel that spans 60 years and several generations in the midst of historic turning points as dramatic as those we are living through now. Looming war with Germany? Todays topic: Prousts madeleine, should it have been a croissant?, A post shared by Atria Books (@atriabooks). Categories: I really enjoyed The Mystery of Mrs. Christie by Marie Benedict and highly recommend you all read it! Odile, who recently eloped with Paul at his urgent request, has no idea what happened and worries when Margaret doesnt attend a party for her and Paul at the Library. As Odiles family, home, and eventually coworkers are all affected by the Nazi occupation of France, she fights the war with the best weapons she hasbooks. Its an interesting tactic to connect the past with more of the present. *If you are new here, WELCOME! A powerful novel that explores the consequences of our choices and the relationships that make us who we arefamily, friends, and favorite authorsThe Paris Libraryshows that extraordinary heroism can sometimes be found in the quietest of places. This work of historical fiction, based on a true story, highlights courage, the importance of keeping intellectual curiosity alive, and the meaning and value of friendship. FAMILY LIFE & FRIENDSHIP | The puzzle of those missing eleven days has persisted. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The interview with Miss Reeder, the Directress, begins well, but Odile falters when asked her reasons for wanting to work at the Library. Additionally, Odile motivates Lily to stand up for herself and insist on achieving her goal to attend college. Based on the true World War. Paris between the wars teems with artists, writers, and musicians, a glittering crucible of genius. In the first, book-obsessed teenager Odile Souchet tackles her new job at the ALP amid a thriving community of students, writers and avid readers. Because of this, I cant quite give it 5 stars. The American Library in Paris was able to stay open throughout the war. Will Odile ever reconnect with Margaret again. She lands her dream job assisting patrons of the American Library, which serves both foreigners and Parisians, and falls in love with one of the police officers her father brings home for dinner. Despite the fact that Nazis often destroyed art and literature, they seemed to recognize that learning and reading were still important enough to keep the library open. WWII. In this one, the Montana storyline focuses more on the teenager Lily and I wasnt as engaged with her arc. Do you think it was harder for Odile to forgive herself than it was for Margaret to forgive her? Odile is initially angry but understands Margarets predicament. This article first appeared on July26, 2021 in The Edge Malaysia. Almost 40 years later, Lily befriends Odile, who lives alone and is isolated. Based on a true World War II story about the heroic librarians of the American Library in Paris (ALP), this book tells an unforgettable tale of romance, friendship and family in the most unusual of situations. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Janet Skeslien Charles is an award-winning author with over a decade's worth of roaming the streets of Paris and researching in its libraries. In the event of a sale, I will be awarded a small commission (at no extra cost to you or the featured books author). As a graduate student in 1942, Eva was forced to flee Paris after the arrest of her father, a Polish Jew. Finding refuge in a small mountain town in the Free Zone, she begins forging identity documents for Jewish children fleeing to neutral Switzerland. In 1939, Odile Souchet, the daughter of the captain of a police precinct, has just finished library school. "well plotted and richly populated" For the young Parisian Odile Souchet in the winter of 1939, working in the American Library in Paris sounds like her ideal job. Together with her fellow librarians . Bottom line? The novela New York Times, Washington Post, and USA Today bestselleris one of five finalists for the 2021 American Library in Paris Book Award. Fans of Lester's own French novels will be delighted with this wartime story. Required fields are marked *. After a scold at the Library informs on Professor Cohen, its Paul who arrests her. How would this have changed your reading? Paris, 1939: Young and ambitious Odile Souchet seems to have the perfect life with her handsome police officer beau and a dream job at the American Library in Paris. So how does Odile end up in the tiny town of Froid, Montana, some four decades later, a widow and near-recluse? He was so kind and intuitive with Odile and others. An awkward luncheon with a would-be suitor? Were you shocked by what happened to Margaret? 823. Did this surprise you? As a Parisian, an ardent bookworm, and a longtime fan of the American Library in Paris, I devouredThe Paris Libraryin one hungry gulp. And there is no mention of him at all at the end of the book. As Lily uncovers more about her neighbors mysterious past, she finds that they share a love of language, the same longings, and the same intense jealousy, never suspecting that a dark secret from the past connects them. (See my struggle to find a recipe for The Nightingale here). When the Nazis march into Paris, Odile stands to lose everything she holds dear, including her beloved library. So we know that by the time we meet Odile in Montana, shes all alone.
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