Do you know those books about a quirky individual, maybe someone very set in their ways who undergoes a life-changing transition for the better? They’re usually supported by a sweet gang of characters who follow them on this soul-searching journey, and maybe in the end, they all have a party? Well, this is one of those.
There’s nothing wrong with this formula. In fact, I love it. A Man Called Ove? Put me in starry-eyed wonder. Britt-Marie Was Here? I was here for it. Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine? Yes, please. Even Phaedra Patrick’s previous novel, The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper follows this heart-warming formula.
The Library of Lost and Found is about a middle-aged woman who thinks of everyone before herself and learns to strike a healthy balance between caring for others and being a little selfish when needed. I can’t say too much more, because honestly, since I already laid out what formula it follows, you can kind of guess.
But again, I love a light-hearted story that inspires the reader to be a better person. There are serious notes blended in with the sweetness of the story, but it’s the perfect mix. Near the end, I even shed a tear, the kind you find yourself wiping away at the end of a rom-com.
Plus, who can say no to a book with books as a theme? I can’t.