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The Library
Two different generations. Two unusual people. Thrown together to save their local library.
Tom is a teenager and blends into the background of life. After a row with his dad, and facing an unhappy future at the dog food factory, he escapes to the library. Tom unwittingly ends up with a bagful of romance novels and comes under the suspicion of Maggie.
Maggie is a pensioner and has been happily alone for ten years, at least that's what she tells herself. When Tom comes to her rescue, a friendship develops that could change her life. As Maggie helps Tom to stand up for himself, Tom helps Maggie realise the mistakes of her past don't have to define her future.
They each set out to prove that the library isn't just about books – it's the heart of their community.
Together they discover some things are worth fighting for.
Tom is a teenager and blends into the background of life. After a row with his dad, and facing an unhappy future at the dog food factory, he escapes to the library. Tom unwittingly ends up with a bagful of romance novels and comes under the suspicion of Maggie.
Maggie is a pensioner and has been happily alone for ten years, at least that's what she tells herself. When Tom comes to her rescue, a friendship develops that could change her life. As Maggie helps Tom to stand up for himself, Tom helps Maggie realise the mistakes of her past don't have to define her future.
They each set out to prove that the library isn't just about books – it's the heart of their community.
Together they discover some things are worth fighting for.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 2, 2021
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12338 people want to read
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January 5, 2024
Rarely does a book hit so unexpectedly.....
Tom is an awkward UK teenager who is at a major crossroads in his life. He needs to start thinking about his future which is difficult with no guidance. His mother died when he was eight, and his father is an alcoholic. Maggie is a seventy-two year old woman who is struggling with living alone on her farm. These two bump into each other at the local library which is slated to be closed. Can the library be saved? How will things turn out for these two?
This book was like Harold and Maude plus a library. It was truly endearing, and the author did a perfect job of depicting what it feels like to live with a drunk parent: never knowing what you are coming home to, how long you will be able to live in the same spot, struggling to make ends meet. There are parents who are not top 10% parents; there are parents who are bottom 10%, and this book was one of them. It also reminded me a bit of The Glass Castle. The Library stirred the emotions in the best possible way, and I loved the UK atmosphere and tone. Flying off the handle would not have worked as well in this book, and the scenes came across even stronger. It also felt very realistic, especially when fighting for the library, acknowledging that perhaps they were not going to be able to save it.
One thing that The Library did was inspire me to help out my local library and fired off a note asking if they wanted my assistance in punching up their social media presence, if they want me to give a presentation about books (how to get free books, book recommendations, how to get started in the book community), and book donations. Excellent reminder to give back to the book community before it is too late!
Overall, a really excellent book, and I am already looking forward to reading it again.
*Thanks, NetGalley, for a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest opinion.
2024 Reading Schedule
Jan Middlemarch
Feb The Grapes of Wrath
Mar Oliver Twist
Apr Madame Bovary
May A Clockwork Orange
Jun Possession
Jul The Folk of the Faraway Tree Collection
Aug Crime and Punishment
Sep Heart of Darkness
Oct Moby-Dick
Nov Far From the Madding Crowd
Dec A Tale of Two Cities
Connect With Me!
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Tom is an awkward UK teenager who is at a major crossroads in his life. He needs to start thinking about his future which is difficult with no guidance. His mother died when he was eight, and his father is an alcoholic. Maggie is a seventy-two year old woman who is struggling with living alone on her farm. These two bump into each other at the local library which is slated to be closed. Can the library be saved? How will things turn out for these two?
This book was like Harold and Maude plus a library. It was truly endearing, and the author did a perfect job of depicting what it feels like to live with a drunk parent: never knowing what you are coming home to, how long you will be able to live in the same spot, struggling to make ends meet. There are parents who are not top 10% parents; there are parents who are bottom 10%, and this book was one of them. It also reminded me a bit of The Glass Castle. The Library stirred the emotions in the best possible way, and I loved the UK atmosphere and tone. Flying off the handle would not have worked as well in this book, and the scenes came across even stronger. It also felt very realistic, especially when fighting for the library, acknowledging that perhaps they were not going to be able to save it.
One thing that The Library did was inspire me to help out my local library and fired off a note asking if they wanted my assistance in punching up their social media presence, if they want me to give a presentation about books (how to get free books, book recommendations, how to get started in the book community), and book donations. Excellent reminder to give back to the book community before it is too late!
Overall, a really excellent book, and I am already looking forward to reading it again.
*Thanks, NetGalley, for a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest opinion.
2024 Reading Schedule
Jan Middlemarch
Feb The Grapes of Wrath
Mar Oliver Twist
Apr Madame Bovary
May A Clockwork Orange
Jun Possession
Jul The Folk of the Faraway Tree Collection
Aug Crime and Punishment
Sep Heart of Darkness
Oct Moby-Dick
Nov Far From the Madding Crowd
Dec A Tale of Two Cities
Connect With Me!
Blog Twitter BookTube Facebook Insta
March 9, 2022
***NOW IN PAPERBACK AND FREE FOR KINDLE UNLIMITED***
If you are reading this review you are probably a bit of a book addict, as am I. I will always reach for a book that is about a bookstore or library, takes place in one or is somehow connected to books!
The theme of this book is the possible closure of a local library, which is not a new premise. However this book is about so much more.
The library is where our two main protagonists will meet and become acquainted. The chapters are told in alternating points of view between Tom and Maggie.
Tom Harris feels as though he is invisible. “Not actually invisible – that would make me interesting and I’m not. I’m the person others find easy to forget. The one who is lost in the crowd.”
Tom is a high school student who has had a rough time of it. His mother died when he was quite young and it’s just been his dad and him for a long time. He has watched his father spiral further and further down into depression and alcoholism. Most nights, if his dad is not at work, he will be drinking and lying on the couch until he passes out. The two don’t have much to talk about and his dad doesn’t question much about what Tom does in the evenings. Tom’s only friends are the online buddies that he plays games on his Xbox with.
Maggie is 72 years young, she has been living alone for at least 10 years. She has a home and acreage with animals that she cares for. She keeps sheep for their fleece and enjoys caring for them. She likes her life but would like more people to interact with.
Maggie has come to the library for her weekly book club meeting. She comes for the company and a chance to interact with others. She has always loved the library, it’s sense of calm and “somewhere safe and quiet to run to and the library had never let her down.”
An event occurs after the meeting which will begin a friendship between Tom and Maggie. She seems to be just what Tom needs. He loves helping out at her farm and the delicious Sunday meals that she makes for him, it’s more fun cooking for two!!
Christine the librarian has received word that their library may soon be closed. So there is the fight for the library that both of them are involved in, but that is almost second place in this story.
This book addresses some heavy issues, grief, loss, alcoholism, father and son relationships, trust and more. It is told in such a way that still made for a great fictional read while encouraging us to reach out to others. Maybe there is someone out there who could use a friend or just some help?? AGE DOESN’T MATTER, A FRIEND IS A FRIEND!!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a great character driven novel.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley.
If you are reading this review you are probably a bit of a book addict, as am I. I will always reach for a book that is about a bookstore or library, takes place in one or is somehow connected to books!
The theme of this book is the possible closure of a local library, which is not a new premise. However this book is about so much more.
The library is where our two main protagonists will meet and become acquainted. The chapters are told in alternating points of view between Tom and Maggie.
Tom Harris feels as though he is invisible. “Not actually invisible – that would make me interesting and I’m not. I’m the person others find easy to forget. The one who is lost in the crowd.”
Tom is a high school student who has had a rough time of it. His mother died when he was quite young and it’s just been his dad and him for a long time. He has watched his father spiral further and further down into depression and alcoholism. Most nights, if his dad is not at work, he will be drinking and lying on the couch until he passes out. The two don’t have much to talk about and his dad doesn’t question much about what Tom does in the evenings. Tom’s only friends are the online buddies that he plays games on his Xbox with.
Maggie is 72 years young, she has been living alone for at least 10 years. She has a home and acreage with animals that she cares for. She keeps sheep for their fleece and enjoys caring for them. She likes her life but would like more people to interact with.
Maggie has come to the library for her weekly book club meeting. She comes for the company and a chance to interact with others. She has always loved the library, it’s sense of calm and “somewhere safe and quiet to run to and the library had never let her down.”
An event occurs after the meeting which will begin a friendship between Tom and Maggie. She seems to be just what Tom needs. He loves helping out at her farm and the delicious Sunday meals that she makes for him, it’s more fun cooking for two!!
Christine the librarian has received word that their library may soon be closed. So there is the fight for the library that both of them are involved in, but that is almost second place in this story.
This book addresses some heavy issues, grief, loss, alcoholism, father and son relationships, trust and more. It is told in such a way that still made for a great fictional read while encouraging us to reach out to others. Maybe there is someone out there who could use a friend or just some help?? AGE DOESN’T MATTER, A FRIEND IS A FRIEND!!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a great character driven novel.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley.
July 26, 2021
There seems to be no shortage of books lately about the threat of closure to a beloved community library - this is one of two I have right now. Unfortunately, it’s a reflection of the real-life threat to public libraries, so if I take nothing else away from this book, it’ll be a reminder of how grateful I am to have an awesome community library where I live and to continue to support it!
Now for the book: At the heart of it, it’s less about saving the village library, though that’s the plot device that introduces characters and moves events along, but more about the unlikely friendship between Tom, a 16-year-old socially awkward boy who lost his mother, and Maggie, a spunky, independent 72-year old widow who lost her son. These are two people who, each in their own way, desperately need the other.
Tom is watching his once happy dad, Paul, spiral downward into alcoholism and debt, increasingly neglecting his duties as a father while pressuring Tom to give up his university dream to get a factory job. Maggie is maintaining a sheep farm by herself and dealing with the isolation and loneliness that can come with age and circumstance. She also has a secret from her past involving her son - the mystery of which plays throughout the story. Tom and Maggie find each other through the library, but their friendship grows as Maggie becomes a defacto mother to Tom during the worst of his father’s decline.
Despite the heavy topics, it’s a sweet story, and I loved Maggie and Tom’s friendship. Honestly, anyone would be lucky to have someone like Maggie in their corner. Where the story suffered a bit for me was in sheer length. Because of the more leisurely pace of the story, 384 pages started to feel unnecessarily long at some point, and the resolution of the threat to the library faded in and out of the story until the last chapters. The story of Paul’s alcoholism and the negative effects on Tom was really tough to stomach, but that may have been more personally triggering for me, than being a problem with the book.
Overall, I really liked the story and if you’re looking for a new character duo to love, you just might love Maggie and Tom!
★★★ ½ (rounded to 4)
This and all my other reviews can also be found at: https://acuriouskatreads.blogspot.com/
Thanks to Aria & Aries, Netgalley and author Bella Osborne for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinions. It's due for publication Sept. 2, 2021.
Now for the book: At the heart of it, it’s less about saving the village library, though that’s the plot device that introduces characters and moves events along, but more about the unlikely friendship between Tom, a 16-year-old socially awkward boy who lost his mother, and Maggie, a spunky, independent 72-year old widow who lost her son. These are two people who, each in their own way, desperately need the other.
Tom is watching his once happy dad, Paul, spiral downward into alcoholism and debt, increasingly neglecting his duties as a father while pressuring Tom to give up his university dream to get a factory job. Maggie is maintaining a sheep farm by herself and dealing with the isolation and loneliness that can come with age and circumstance. She also has a secret from her past involving her son - the mystery of which plays throughout the story. Tom and Maggie find each other through the library, but their friendship grows as Maggie becomes a defacto mother to Tom during the worst of his father’s decline.
Despite the heavy topics, it’s a sweet story, and I loved Maggie and Tom’s friendship. Honestly, anyone would be lucky to have someone like Maggie in their corner. Where the story suffered a bit for me was in sheer length. Because of the more leisurely pace of the story, 384 pages started to feel unnecessarily long at some point, and the resolution of the threat to the library faded in and out of the story until the last chapters. The story of Paul’s alcoholism and the negative effects on Tom was really tough to stomach, but that may have been more personally triggering for me, than being a problem with the book.
Overall, I really liked the story and if you’re looking for a new character duo to love, you just might love Maggie and Tom!
★★★ ½ (rounded to 4)
This and all my other reviews can also be found at: https://acuriouskatreads.blogspot.com/
Thanks to Aria & Aries, Netgalley and author Bella Osborne for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinions. It's due for publication Sept. 2, 2021.
March 16, 2022
As a big reader and user of libraries, this book called out to me. I was worried it might be a little too saccharine, but it wasn’t.
Maggie is a 72 year old widow who comes to the library for a weekly book club. She also still manages her small farm of sheep and chickens. Tom is 16 years old. His mom is dead and his dad is an alcoholic. The library becomes a sanctuary for him on the weekends. When the council decides to close the library, their unlikely friendship really blossoms over a united cause.
The chapters alternate between Tom’s and Maggie’s POVs. Both characters felt fully realized and I was equally invested in both. Osborne does a great job of portraying Tom as a boy verging on manhood but not there yet. All of their issues (loneliness, alcoholism, money problems, grief and trust issues ) are handled sensitively and realistically. Flip side, Tom’s introduction to farming provided some comic relief.
This was a lovely, heartwarming story about the families we make and not being afraid to rely on others.
My thanks to Netgalley and Aria&Aries for an advance copy of this book.
Maggie is a 72 year old widow who comes to the library for a weekly book club. She also still manages her small farm of sheep and chickens. Tom is 16 years old. His mom is dead and his dad is an alcoholic. The library becomes a sanctuary for him on the weekends. When the council decides to close the library, their unlikely friendship really blossoms over a united cause.
The chapters alternate between Tom’s and Maggie’s POVs. Both characters felt fully realized and I was equally invested in both. Osborne does a great job of portraying Tom as a boy verging on manhood but not there yet. All of their issues (loneliness, alcoholism, money problems, grief and trust issues ) are handled sensitively and realistically. Flip side, Tom’s introduction to farming provided some comic relief.
This was a lovely, heartwarming story about the families we make and not being afraid to rely on others.
My thanks to Netgalley and Aria&Aries for an advance copy of this book.
January 6, 2022
4.5 stars.
Tom Harris is 16 and about to sit his GCSEs, he’s invisible and likes it that way. His mum died when he was in year two and now it’s just him and his dad and he’s spiralling down so their home is not a happy place. Tom likes Farah Shah, she is a popular girl, out of his league but he decides one day to go to the library in the hope of clapping eyes on her. When Tom‘s dad ‘kills his Xbox’ the library and books becomes his solace. Maggie is 72, she is a pivotal member of the library book club and a mugging on her way home from the club brings Tom to her rescue and thus begins a burgeoning across the age divide friendship and a fight to save the library from closure.
This is a really lovely story, I enjoy the way it’s written with the alternating perspectives of Tom and Maggie. It’s touching at times, and charming and parts of it I read with a smile on my face. Both Maggie and Tom have baggage and issues and in places it’s heartbreaking and sad but it blends with the joyous really well. I love the developing friendship via books and watching the connection grow as in many ways it’s not just the library that needs saving. The characterisation is excellent, I love watching Tom going from invisibly melding into the background to his growth in confidence and becoming visible. Maggie is simply amazing for me she is the standout character as she is full of surprises and a good lesson in not judging a book by its cover. She’s also a great cook your mouth waters at times! The peripheral characters of lovely Farah, Christine the anxious librarian and Paul, Toms cash-strapped dad are also well portrayed. The library plays a very significant role in the storytelling and it’s a case of if you don’t you don’t know what you’ve got till its gone as cash poor councils make tough choices.
Overall there is a lot going on so it’s constantly interesting and it’s all part of life’s rich tapestry. This has been a pleasure to read from start to finish. With thanks to NetGalley and Aria and Aries, Aria for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review
Tom Harris is 16 and about to sit his GCSEs, he’s invisible and likes it that way. His mum died when he was in year two and now it’s just him and his dad and he’s spiralling down so their home is not a happy place. Tom likes Farah Shah, she is a popular girl, out of his league but he decides one day to go to the library in the hope of clapping eyes on her. When Tom‘s dad ‘kills his Xbox’ the library and books becomes his solace. Maggie is 72, she is a pivotal member of the library book club and a mugging on her way home from the club brings Tom to her rescue and thus begins a burgeoning across the age divide friendship and a fight to save the library from closure.
This is a really lovely story, I enjoy the way it’s written with the alternating perspectives of Tom and Maggie. It’s touching at times, and charming and parts of it I read with a smile on my face. Both Maggie and Tom have baggage and issues and in places it’s heartbreaking and sad but it blends with the joyous really well. I love the developing friendship via books and watching the connection grow as in many ways it’s not just the library that needs saving. The characterisation is excellent, I love watching Tom going from invisibly melding into the background to his growth in confidence and becoming visible. Maggie is simply amazing for me she is the standout character as she is full of surprises and a good lesson in not judging a book by its cover. She’s also a great cook your mouth waters at times! The peripheral characters of lovely Farah, Christine the anxious librarian and Paul, Toms cash-strapped dad are also well portrayed. The library plays a very significant role in the storytelling and it’s a case of if you don’t you don’t know what you’ve got till its gone as cash poor councils make tough choices.
Overall there is a lot going on so it’s constantly interesting and it’s all part of life’s rich tapestry. This has been a pleasure to read from start to finish. With thanks to NetGalley and Aria and Aries, Aria for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review
December 2, 2021
Bella Osborne writes a lovely and heartwarming novel about the surprising relationship that develops between awkward 16 year old Tom Harris, with his GCSE's imminent, feeling invisible, and lonely 72 year old pensioner, Maggie Mann, who after the death of her husband, has felt all the fun leaching out of her life. The offbeat Maggie wears distinctive red Doc Martens, runs a small farm with sheep, has an unhinged aggressive ram called Colin, and chickens. She's an excellent cook but with only herself, she doesn't often make the effort, does yoga, and can defend herself without any problems. Maggie has her own demons and secrets that revolve around the loss of her son. Tom lives with his difficult and worrying alcoholic father, Paul, who neglects him, they have deep money troubles, their home is at risk and there is often no food.
Paul is insistent that Tom begins earning money as soon as possible and begin to pay his way, and to this end, wants him to begin an apprenticeship at a local dog food factory. Tom wants more, and dreams of going to university, but has concerns about how well he will do in his exams. He is drawn to the popular, beautiful and bright girl at school, Farah Shah, who likes reading romantic fiction. After his father breaks his Xbox, Tom finds himself going to Compton Mallow Library, and begins reading romance novels, and it is where he meets Maggie, a group member of the weekly book club discussions. After trying to help Maggie when she gets mugged, the two of them start to become closer, each needing the other, a relationship that develops around their campaign to save the library from being closed. However, there are personal challenges to overcome for both of them.
Tom's father becomes more and more of a problem, it is not easy to live with an alcoholic father, when matters come to head for Tom, Maggie is there for him, providing him with a safe, secure environment where for the first time in a long time, he has wholesome, tasty and nutritious meals, and he thrives on the farm, loving helping out wherever he can. I love the fact that Tom is unashamed in his love for romantic literature, such as Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, this helps him to cement a friendship with Farah. This is a fun, entertaining and engaging read, with great characters, particularly the wonderful Maggie, whilst touching on serious issues, like alcoholism and the ongoing threat to libraries, at the heart of so many communities. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
Paul is insistent that Tom begins earning money as soon as possible and begin to pay his way, and to this end, wants him to begin an apprenticeship at a local dog food factory. Tom wants more, and dreams of going to university, but has concerns about how well he will do in his exams. He is drawn to the popular, beautiful and bright girl at school, Farah Shah, who likes reading romantic fiction. After his father breaks his Xbox, Tom finds himself going to Compton Mallow Library, and begins reading romance novels, and it is where he meets Maggie, a group member of the weekly book club discussions. After trying to help Maggie when she gets mugged, the two of them start to become closer, each needing the other, a relationship that develops around their campaign to save the library from being closed. However, there are personal challenges to overcome for both of them.
Tom's father becomes more and more of a problem, it is not easy to live with an alcoholic father, when matters come to head for Tom, Maggie is there for him, providing him with a safe, secure environment where for the first time in a long time, he has wholesome, tasty and nutritious meals, and he thrives on the farm, loving helping out wherever he can. I love the fact that Tom is unashamed in his love for romantic literature, such as Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, this helps him to cement a friendship with Farah. This is a fun, entertaining and engaging read, with great characters, particularly the wonderful Maggie, whilst touching on serious issues, like alcoholism and the ongoing threat to libraries, at the heart of so many communities. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
April 13, 2022
EXCERPT: The post lady came in and handed over a pile of letters and something Christine had to sign for. Christine let out a gasp worthy of anyone winning a TV prize jackpot but her face told a different story. Maggie went to see what had caused it but Betty was quicker off the mark.
'Something wrong?' asked Betty, her face laden with glee.
'They're closing us down,' said Christine, followed by a dramatic sob as she clutched the podium for support.
Betty was quick with the tissues, which gave Maggie a chance to swivel around the offending letter and have a quick read for herself. She wasn't surprised to see that Christine had made a mansion out of a Lego brick. 'It's inviting you to a meeting about the future of the library, Christine.' It wasn't exactly an eviction notice. Maggie had seen plenty of those in her time.
Christine looked affronted. 'That's what it means.' She stabbed the letter with a neat fingernail. 'It came by recorded delivery. They call you to a meeting and that's when they tell you they're closing you down. . .'
ABOUT 'THE LIBRARY': Two different generations. Two unusual people. Thrown together to save their local library.
Tom is a teenager and blends into the background of life. After a row with his dad, and facing an unhappy future at the dog food factory, he escapes to the library. Tom unwittingly ends up with a bagful of romance novels and comes under the suspicion of Maggie.
Maggie is a pensioner and has been happily alone for ten years, at least that's what she tells herself. When Tom comes to her rescue a friendship develops that could change her life. As Maggie helps Tom to stand up for himself, Tom helps Maggie realise the mistakes of her past don't have to define her future.
They each set out to prove that the library isn't just about books – it's the heart of their community.
Together they discover some things are worth fighting for.
MY THOUGHTS: I needed this! If you want a book that is going to make you smile and your heart swell, this is it!
The characters are realistic, relatable and mostly lovely, except Kemp who is an out and out bully. Thomas Harris, just like the author, is seriously lacking in self-esteem, and feels like he is invisible - 'Not actually invisible – that would make me interesting and I’m not. I’m the person others find easy to forget. The one who is lost in the crowd.' - except to Kemp, who always manages to see him and make his life even more miserable than it already is.
Maggie is in her 70s, and lives alone on a smallholding with just her animals for company. The highlight of her life is the weekly book club at the library. She is an extraordinary character with hidden depths and a tragic secret.
Maggie and Tom meet at the library after Tom's dad smashes his x-box which seems like a tragedy at the time but which is probably the best thing that ever happened to him, because he starts reading again, something he hasn't done since his mum died.
A friendship that will change both their lives begins when Tom comes to Maggie's aid when she is getting mugged.
The Library isn't so much about the efforts to save the local library as a touching story of an unlikely friendship. It's a heartwarming and uplifting read that left me with a smile on my face and needing to read more from this author.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.3
#TheLibrary #NetGalley
I: @bellaosborneauthor @avonbooksuk
T: @osborne_bella @AvonBooksUK @aria_fiction
#comingofage #contemporaryfiction #familydrama #sliceoflife #smalltownfiction
THE AUTHOR: Bella's stories are about friendship, love and coping with what life throws at you. She likes to find the humor in the darker moments of life and weaves these into her stories. Bella believes that writing your own story really is the best fun ever, closely followed by talking, eating chocolate, drinking fizz, and planning holidays. She lives in the Midlands, UK with her lovely husband and wonderful daughter, who thankfully, both accept her as she is (with mad morning hair and a penchant for skipping). (Amazon)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Aria & Aries via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Library by Bella Osborne for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
'Something wrong?' asked Betty, her face laden with glee.
'They're closing us down,' said Christine, followed by a dramatic sob as she clutched the podium for support.
Betty was quick with the tissues, which gave Maggie a chance to swivel around the offending letter and have a quick read for herself. She wasn't surprised to see that Christine had made a mansion out of a Lego brick. 'It's inviting you to a meeting about the future of the library, Christine.' It wasn't exactly an eviction notice. Maggie had seen plenty of those in her time.
Christine looked affronted. 'That's what it means.' She stabbed the letter with a neat fingernail. 'It came by recorded delivery. They call you to a meeting and that's when they tell you they're closing you down. . .'
ABOUT 'THE LIBRARY': Two different generations. Two unusual people. Thrown together to save their local library.
Tom is a teenager and blends into the background of life. After a row with his dad, and facing an unhappy future at the dog food factory, he escapes to the library. Tom unwittingly ends up with a bagful of romance novels and comes under the suspicion of Maggie.
Maggie is a pensioner and has been happily alone for ten years, at least that's what she tells herself. When Tom comes to her rescue a friendship develops that could change her life. As Maggie helps Tom to stand up for himself, Tom helps Maggie realise the mistakes of her past don't have to define her future.
They each set out to prove that the library isn't just about books – it's the heart of their community.
Together they discover some things are worth fighting for.
MY THOUGHTS: I needed this! If you want a book that is going to make you smile and your heart swell, this is it!
The characters are realistic, relatable and mostly lovely, except Kemp who is an out and out bully. Thomas Harris, just like the author, is seriously lacking in self-esteem, and feels like he is invisible - 'Not actually invisible – that would make me interesting and I’m not. I’m the person others find easy to forget. The one who is lost in the crowd.' - except to Kemp, who always manages to see him and make his life even more miserable than it already is.
Maggie is in her 70s, and lives alone on a smallholding with just her animals for company. The highlight of her life is the weekly book club at the library. She is an extraordinary character with hidden depths and a tragic secret.
Maggie and Tom meet at the library after Tom's dad smashes his x-box which seems like a tragedy at the time but which is probably the best thing that ever happened to him, because he starts reading again, something he hasn't done since his mum died.
A friendship that will change both their lives begins when Tom comes to Maggie's aid when she is getting mugged.
The Library isn't so much about the efforts to save the local library as a touching story of an unlikely friendship. It's a heartwarming and uplifting read that left me with a smile on my face and needing to read more from this author.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.3
#TheLibrary #NetGalley
I: @bellaosborneauthor @avonbooksuk
T: @osborne_bella @AvonBooksUK @aria_fiction
#comingofage #contemporaryfiction #familydrama #sliceoflife #smalltownfiction
THE AUTHOR: Bella's stories are about friendship, love and coping with what life throws at you. She likes to find the humor in the darker moments of life and weaves these into her stories. Bella believes that writing your own story really is the best fun ever, closely followed by talking, eating chocolate, drinking fizz, and planning holidays. She lives in the Midlands, UK with her lovely husband and wonderful daughter, who thankfully, both accept her as she is (with mad morning hair and a penchant for skipping). (Amazon)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Aria & Aries via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Library by Bella Osborne for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
August 22, 2021
This was such a lovely book about two unlikely people forming a bond thanks to their local library.
Tom is a sixteen-year-old boy who keeps to himself and is being raised by his alcoholic father. Maggie is a seventy-two-year-old energetic woman who lives alone on a farm. Tom goes to the library in an effort to learn about girls by reading romance novels. Maggie, eager to socialize and fill up her time, goes to meet with her book club every Saturday. The two become close friends after someone tries to rob Maggie.
This story is less about the library and more about Tom and Maggie’s friendship and their individual struggles. Tom feels anxiety whenever he is at home and tries to avoid his alcoholic father whose addiction is worsening everyday. Since losing her family, Maggie has built a fortress of walls around her and hardly allows anyone to get close to her.
This was such a heartwarming novel. It effortlessly balances heavy topics with moments of hilarity. Initially, I wasn’t invested in this story, but when the pair’s storyline intersected I couldn’t get enough of these two.
Maggie and Tom will likely be a duo that I’ll think of for some time to come.
Thank you to Aria for providing me with an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Tom is a sixteen-year-old boy who keeps to himself and is being raised by his alcoholic father. Maggie is a seventy-two-year-old energetic woman who lives alone on a farm. Tom goes to the library in an effort to learn about girls by reading romance novels. Maggie, eager to socialize and fill up her time, goes to meet with her book club every Saturday. The two become close friends after someone tries to rob Maggie.
This story is less about the library and more about Tom and Maggie’s friendship and their individual struggles. Tom feels anxiety whenever he is at home and tries to avoid his alcoholic father whose addiction is worsening everyday. Since losing her family, Maggie has built a fortress of walls around her and hardly allows anyone to get close to her.
This was such a heartwarming novel. It effortlessly balances heavy topics with moments of hilarity. Initially, I wasn’t invested in this story, but when the pair’s storyline intersected I couldn’t get enough of these two.
Maggie and Tom will likely be a duo that I’ll think of for some time to come.
Thank you to Aria for providing me with an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2023
4.5⭐️
When sixteen-year-old Tom Harris and seventy-two-year-old Maggie Mann meet at the local library and strike up a conversation about books it is just the beginning of a warm and beautiful friendship.
"There was something oddly isolating about being surrounded by people and yet completely alone."
Tom lives with his negligent father, whose alcoholic binges leave Tom with the responsibility of picking up after both himself and his father who works nights at a pet food factory. Tom wishes to pursue higher education but is under pressure to work as an apprentice at his father’s factory to supplement the family income. Shy, and introverted, he doesn’t have too many friends at school, preferring to spend his free time playing games on his Xbox. He’s not much of a reader, but when he ends up in the village library after a confrontation with his father, a chance meeting with Maggie changes the trajectory of his life in the best way possible. Widowed Maggie is lonely and lives alone on her farm, taking care of her sheep. Her book club meetings at the library proved to be an opportunity to discuss books (though she usually isn’t too happy with the selections and the lackluster conversations on the same) and spend some time with friends. As the story progresses we see Maggie befriending Tom, taking him under her wing, and becoming his confidante. In turn, Tom begins to treat Maggie like family, sharing her adventurous spirit, and learning to love books and Maggi’s sheep (not to mention her quad bike!). When the village library is threatened with closure, Maggie and Tom are crucial in bringing the community together in an initiative to save their library.
"Every book is a key that unlocks another world, leads us down the path of a different life and offers the chance to explore an unexpected adventure. Every one is a gift of either knowledge, entertainment or pure escapism and goodness knows we all need that from time to time."
The Library by Bella Osborne is a sweet , delightful read with endearing characters and an engaging narrative shared in alternating chapters from the perspectives of Tom and Maggie. I loved the vivid descriptions of nature and Maggie’s farm and animals. The intergenerational friendship and trust between Tom and Maggie are beautifully and convincingly developed as the story progresses. In addition to themes of friendship, kindness, trust and community and highlighting the power of books and libraries in bringing people and communities together, the author also touches upon sensitive themes of aging, grief, loneliness, alcoholism, dysfunctional families and bullying among others with sensitivity, compassion and wisdom. I'm drawn to stories that revolve around bookstores and/or libraries. Unfortunately, more often than not I've been disappointed with how the stories are handled/executed. I’m happy to say that this novel does not fall into that category. This is a perfect feel-good, uplifting read for those times you need to de-stress or when you just need a lighter read in between more serious /heavy reads.
I paired my reading with the wonderful audio narration by Julia Franklin and Harry Lister Smith who made the story and the characters come alive.
“Friends aren’t merely the tumbleweed of faces that roll in and out of your life. Friends are the ones you connect with and who last a lifetime. You’ll pass a million people on your path and just a few will be worth spending time with.”
When sixteen-year-old Tom Harris and seventy-two-year-old Maggie Mann meet at the local library and strike up a conversation about books it is just the beginning of a warm and beautiful friendship.
"There was something oddly isolating about being surrounded by people and yet completely alone."
Tom lives with his negligent father, whose alcoholic binges leave Tom with the responsibility of picking up after both himself and his father who works nights at a pet food factory. Tom wishes to pursue higher education but is under pressure to work as an apprentice at his father’s factory to supplement the family income. Shy, and introverted, he doesn’t have too many friends at school, preferring to spend his free time playing games on his Xbox. He’s not much of a reader, but when he ends up in the village library after a confrontation with his father, a chance meeting with Maggie changes the trajectory of his life in the best way possible. Widowed Maggie is lonely and lives alone on her farm, taking care of her sheep. Her book club meetings at the library proved to be an opportunity to discuss books (though she usually isn’t too happy with the selections and the lackluster conversations on the same) and spend some time with friends. As the story progresses we see Maggie befriending Tom, taking him under her wing, and becoming his confidante. In turn, Tom begins to treat Maggie like family, sharing her adventurous spirit, and learning to love books and Maggi’s sheep (not to mention her quad bike!). When the village library is threatened with closure, Maggie and Tom are crucial in bringing the community together in an initiative to save their library.
"Every book is a key that unlocks another world, leads us down the path of a different life and offers the chance to explore an unexpected adventure. Every one is a gift of either knowledge, entertainment or pure escapism and goodness knows we all need that from time to time."
The Library by Bella Osborne is a sweet , delightful read with endearing characters and an engaging narrative shared in alternating chapters from the perspectives of Tom and Maggie. I loved the vivid descriptions of nature and Maggie’s farm and animals. The intergenerational friendship and trust between Tom and Maggie are beautifully and convincingly developed as the story progresses. In addition to themes of friendship, kindness, trust and community and highlighting the power of books and libraries in bringing people and communities together, the author also touches upon sensitive themes of aging, grief, loneliness, alcoholism, dysfunctional families and bullying among others with sensitivity, compassion and wisdom. I'm drawn to stories that revolve around bookstores and/or libraries. Unfortunately, more often than not I've been disappointed with how the stories are handled/executed. I’m happy to say that this novel does not fall into that category. This is a perfect feel-good, uplifting read for those times you need to de-stress or when you just need a lighter read in between more serious /heavy reads.
I paired my reading with the wonderful audio narration by Julia Franklin and Harry Lister Smith who made the story and the characters come alive.
“Friends aren’t merely the tumbleweed of faces that roll in and out of your life. Friends are the ones you connect with and who last a lifetime. You’ll pass a million people on your path and just a few will be worth spending time with.”
September 20, 2021
This is a very enjoyable and heartwarming story about a sixteen year old boy and a seventy two year old woman who meet at the local library and accidentally become friends.
Maggie still runs a small farm and lives on her own. She attends the library for its Book Group where she gets to talk to people - a rare event in her everyday life. Tom is wishing he could get to know how to approach girls, especially Farah, and he visits the library to borrow romantic novels which he thinks will help him learn. Maggie is lonely and misses having someone to cook and care for. Tom lives with an alcoholic father and needs someone to look after him. Serendipity brings them together at this time, and when the library is threatened with closure Maggie, Tom and Farah all get involved in the efforts to save it.
This is a charming story about friendship and caring for others. It is easy to become attached to the character of Maggie who is extremely feisty for her age, still staying up all night to help deliver lambs and punching people in the face when her bag is snatched in town. She has a secret though and it is a sad one. Tom is likeable too and it is hard to watch him having to deal with his father's alcoholic excesses. Fortunately there is still a happy ending.
A really enjoyable read, nicely written, happy/sad, and containing some lovely literary references.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Maggie still runs a small farm and lives on her own. She attends the library for its Book Group where she gets to talk to people - a rare event in her everyday life. Tom is wishing he could get to know how to approach girls, especially Farah, and he visits the library to borrow romantic novels which he thinks will help him learn. Maggie is lonely and misses having someone to cook and care for. Tom lives with an alcoholic father and needs someone to look after him. Serendipity brings them together at this time, and when the library is threatened with closure Maggie, Tom and Farah all get involved in the efforts to save it.
This is a charming story about friendship and caring for others. It is easy to become attached to the character of Maggie who is extremely feisty for her age, still staying up all night to help deliver lambs and punching people in the face when her bag is snatched in town. She has a secret though and it is a sad one. Tom is likeable too and it is hard to watch him having to deal with his father's alcoholic excesses. Fortunately there is still a happy ending.
A really enjoyable read, nicely written, happy/sad, and containing some lovely literary references.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
March 4, 2022
This is a delightful novel about an intergenerational friendship between two lonely people. Warm and humorous it also tackles some big issues like grief and loss, social isolation and alcoholism.
Tom is a sixteen year old and thinks of himself as invisible and happy to blend into the background. The only friends he has are the ones he plays X-Box games with. He fancies a girl in his classes, Farah, but thinks she's too pretty and popular to ever notice him and anyway the school bully has told him what will happen to him if he so much as looks at her. Tom's Mum died when he was eight and since then it's just been him and his Dad, who drinks too much and wants Tom to leave school for a job at the dog food factory now that he's sixteen, whereas Tom has his sights set on going to University.
When Tom's X-Box is broken, he finds himself at a loose end at the weekend and heads off to the library, a favourite place his Mum would take him to as a little boy, where he hopes he might see Farah there. Instead he ends up borrowing a swag of romance novels and helps Maggie a seventy two year old woman after she's tackled by a bag snatcher. A stalwart of the library's bookclub, Maggie has lived alone on a small farm since her husband died, raising sheep and growing vegetables. Over the weeks Tom and Maggie become good friends and when Tom's life starts to come off the rails, she provides a welcome safety net for him. With the library facing closure by the council in a few weeks, Maggie and Tom also join forces to rally the village to put up a fight to keep it open.
What is so delightful about Tom and Maggie is the way they not only bring out the best in each other but support each other through difficult times. Tom needs someone to care and nurture him and help him deal with his Dad while Maggie needs company and the joy of having a boy around, experiencing the delights of a farm for the first time. It was also lovely to see Tom open himself to learning new things, like yoga and discovering the joy of reading, to the point of becoming confident in talking about books with Maggie and others.
With thanks to Aria & Aries via Netgalley for a copy to read
Tom is a sixteen year old and thinks of himself as invisible and happy to blend into the background. The only friends he has are the ones he plays X-Box games with. He fancies a girl in his classes, Farah, but thinks she's too pretty and popular to ever notice him and anyway the school bully has told him what will happen to him if he so much as looks at her. Tom's Mum died when he was eight and since then it's just been him and his Dad, who drinks too much and wants Tom to leave school for a job at the dog food factory now that he's sixteen, whereas Tom has his sights set on going to University.
When Tom's X-Box is broken, he finds himself at a loose end at the weekend and heads off to the library, a favourite place his Mum would take him to as a little boy, where he hopes he might see Farah there. Instead he ends up borrowing a swag of romance novels and helps Maggie a seventy two year old woman after she's tackled by a bag snatcher. A stalwart of the library's bookclub, Maggie has lived alone on a small farm since her husband died, raising sheep and growing vegetables. Over the weeks Tom and Maggie become good friends and when Tom's life starts to come off the rails, she provides a welcome safety net for him. With the library facing closure by the council in a few weeks, Maggie and Tom also join forces to rally the village to put up a fight to keep it open.
What is so delightful about Tom and Maggie is the way they not only bring out the best in each other but support each other through difficult times. Tom needs someone to care and nurture him and help him deal with his Dad while Maggie needs company and the joy of having a boy around, experiencing the delights of a farm for the first time. It was also lovely to see Tom open himself to learning new things, like yoga and discovering the joy of reading, to the point of becoming confident in talking about books with Maggie and others.
With thanks to Aria & Aries via Netgalley for a copy to read
August 18, 2021
We all judge a book by its cover. (Don’t deny it!) We also judge books by their titles at times. So if you see this book, you will certainly go for it because it is about the magical place we all love: the library. But does the content do justice to this title and cover? Not exactly.
Story:
There are many things I loved about the book, and many that I wish were different.
Characters:
No complaints here. I loved the bond between Tom and Maggie, so unconditional, so unexpected, so adorable! Maggie especially is unlike any other geriatric character I have seen in novels. I’d love to meet someone like her in real life. She steals the show in this story.
Writing style:
The story is told to us in alternating perspectives of Tom and Maggie. This gives an equal focus to both these lovely characters who are sure to make their mark on your heart. My old regret is that the author chose to write Tom in first person and Maggie in third person. Alternating between the voices again and again is tedious and too abrupt at times. The book would have flowed much better for me had both the characters been voiced the same way, whether first or third.
Pace:
The pace of the story is slow at the start but it soon starts picking up, building to a lovely finale with all ends neatly tied together. If you want a book that is quick and smooth right from the word ‘go’, this won’t work for you. I was ok with the leisurely unfolding of the plot because having a senior character in the main role automatically makes my mind expect an unhurried story. :D
Title:
The titular library does have an important role to play in the book but it is not the central focus point of the book. Instead, the story focusses more on the personal lives of Tom and Maggie, and even the people in the village where they all reside. I think the title creates different sort of expectations in your head, and when the book doesn’t match up to them, you feel let down, even though the book does its job pretty well. I must say, I loved all the book references scattered throughout the story. (Thankfully, I’ve read most of them and have the rest in my TBR. Else, this book would have made a big dent in my reading plans!)
Theme:
This is where the book goes overboard in its sincerity. Senior citizen problems, loneliness, alcoholism, environmental awareness, bullying, school crushes, exam pressures, parental pressures, parental abuse, healthy eating, yoga for fitness, importance of reading and libraries, … There are so many topics the book tries to raise awareness on that the final product dilutes the importance of most of these except for alcoholism and libraries.
Bella Osborne is known for her chick-lit novels. So this is a slightly different reading experience for her fans. But the characters she creates are as good-natured and heart-warming as in her usual genre. If only she had reduced the number of issues she tries to cover within this single book, it would have worked even better.
Overall, this was a good reading experience, though it could have worked even better had I not gone in expecting something else. The story is sweet and the main characters are loveable. And that makes up for the other shortcomings to a great extent.
A 3.75 from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for the ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Story:
Tom Harris. Sixteen. Dead mom. Drunk dad. Bullied at school. Lonely. Discovers that he enjoys reading romance novels, much to his embarrassment.
Maggie Mann. Seventy-two. Widowed. Lives on a farm with her animals and her garden. Lonely. Discovers that her weekly book club at the library is a wonderful opportunity to find interaction with other bookworms.
The common factor? Loneliness.
These dear characters develop a beautiful friendship with each other courtesy their beloved local library. And when they find that the future of the library is at stake, they decide to go all out to save it.
There are many things I loved about the book, and many that I wish were different.
Characters:
No complaints here. I loved the bond between Tom and Maggie, so unconditional, so unexpected, so adorable! Maggie especially is unlike any other geriatric character I have seen in novels. I’d love to meet someone like her in real life. She steals the show in this story.
Writing style:
The story is told to us in alternating perspectives of Tom and Maggie. This gives an equal focus to both these lovely characters who are sure to make their mark on your heart. My old regret is that the author chose to write Tom in first person and Maggie in third person. Alternating between the voices again and again is tedious and too abrupt at times. The book would have flowed much better for me had both the characters been voiced the same way, whether first or third.
Pace:
The pace of the story is slow at the start but it soon starts picking up, building to a lovely finale with all ends neatly tied together. If you want a book that is quick and smooth right from the word ‘go’, this won’t work for you. I was ok with the leisurely unfolding of the plot because having a senior character in the main role automatically makes my mind expect an unhurried story. :D
Title:
The titular library does have an important role to play in the book but it is not the central focus point of the book. Instead, the story focusses more on the personal lives of Tom and Maggie, and even the people in the village where they all reside. I think the title creates different sort of expectations in your head, and when the book doesn’t match up to them, you feel let down, even though the book does its job pretty well. I must say, I loved all the book references scattered throughout the story. (Thankfully, I’ve read most of them and have the rest in my TBR. Else, this book would have made a big dent in my reading plans!)
Theme:
This is where the book goes overboard in its sincerity. Senior citizen problems, loneliness, alcoholism, environmental awareness, bullying, school crushes, exam pressures, parental pressures, parental abuse, healthy eating, yoga for fitness, importance of reading and libraries, … There are so many topics the book tries to raise awareness on that the final product dilutes the importance of most of these except for alcoholism and libraries.
Bella Osborne is known for her chick-lit novels. So this is a slightly different reading experience for her fans. But the characters she creates are as good-natured and heart-warming as in her usual genre. If only she had reduced the number of issues she tries to cover within this single book, it would have worked even better.
Overall, this was a good reading experience, though it could have worked even better had I not gone in expecting something else. The story is sweet and the main characters are loveable. And that makes up for the other shortcomings to a great extent.
A 3.75 from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for the ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
December 3, 2021
Tom Harris lives with his father Paul, he’s only sixteen and he has the weight of the world on his young shoulders. His mum passed away when he was eight, his dad works nights, and Tom's left home alone. He has a crush on Farah Shah at school, he blushes every time he sees her, and loses the ability to speak. He hasn’t a clue about girls, he starts borrowing romance novels from the local library, and to get some ideas on how to be less awkward around girls. Here he meets Maggie Mann, she’s seventy two, a widow and Tom comes to her rescue.
Despite the age difference Tom and Maggie become friends and he starts helping her around her farm. Maggie has twenty acres, she runs sheep, keeps chickens and grows her own vegetables. Maggie takes Tom under her wing, he appreciates her home cooked meals and she senses Tom isn’t happy at home and she leaves it up to him to tell her what’s going on.
Tom discovers the joy of reading, he gains confidence, he starts to apply himself to his studies, he wants to pass high school and go to university. When they threaten to close the library, Maggie, Tom, Farah, Christine and the members of Maggie’s book group start a petition and come up with ideas to save the library. An emotional story about an unlikely friendship, Maggie gives Tom the love and attention he desperately needs and she has a new lease on life. Tom learns valuable life skills from Maggie, and also people do make mistakes and you can’t hold their past against them.
I recived a copy of The Library from NetGalley and Aria & Aries in exchange for an honest review, Bella Osborne's book is beautifully written, it made me cry in a good way, my heart feels full of hope, and five big stars from me.
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Despite the age difference Tom and Maggie become friends and he starts helping her around her farm. Maggie has twenty acres, she runs sheep, keeps chickens and grows her own vegetables. Maggie takes Tom under her wing, he appreciates her home cooked meals and she senses Tom isn’t happy at home and she leaves it up to him to tell her what’s going on.
Tom discovers the joy of reading, he gains confidence, he starts to apply himself to his studies, he wants to pass high school and go to university. When they threaten to close the library, Maggie, Tom, Farah, Christine and the members of Maggie’s book group start a petition and come up with ideas to save the library. An emotional story about an unlikely friendship, Maggie gives Tom the love and attention he desperately needs and she has a new lease on life. Tom learns valuable life skills from Maggie, and also people do make mistakes and you can’t hold their past against them.
I recived a copy of The Library from NetGalley and Aria & Aries in exchange for an honest review, Bella Osborne's book is beautifully written, it made me cry in a good way, my heart feels full of hope, and five big stars from me.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/KarrenReadsH...
January 12, 2022
Tom has a crush on a girl and has no idea how to talk to her, so he checks out romance books at his local library. Maggie is an older lady who spends her free time at the library as a way to shed her loneliness. One evening, Maggie is robbed and Tom comes to her aid. An unexpected friendship forms between the two lonely souls as they find comfort, spending time together.
When their beloved library is threatened with closure, they band together. While trying to save the library, they just may save each other in the process.
“Friends are the ones you connect with and who last a lifetime.”
At the core, this warm and cozy novel celebrates deep and lasting friendship, transforming the characters’ lives for the better. The sweetness of this book, along with Tom and Maggie, will stick with you for a long time.
Thank you NetGalley and Aria and Aries for the ARC in exchange of my honest review.
When their beloved library is threatened with closure, they band together. While trying to save the library, they just may save each other in the process.
“Friends are the ones you connect with and who last a lifetime.”
At the core, this warm and cozy novel celebrates deep and lasting friendship, transforming the characters’ lives for the better. The sweetness of this book, along with Tom and Maggie, will stick with you for a long time.
Thank you NetGalley and Aria and Aries for the ARC in exchange of my honest review.
April 6, 2022
The story starts like this. ’My name is Tom Harris and I am invisible.’ At least that’s the way he feels and, in a way, it suits him as he hates being noticed. Since his mother died when he was 8, it has just been him and his father. They have a strained ralitipnship. His father never seems to listen to him or take notice of him. Tom spends much of his time alone. Then Tom discovers the library and remembers happy times he spent there with his mum. 72 year old Maggie lives alone since her husband died ten years earlier. Her solace is books and the library is her safe haven. Tom and Maggie encounter each other in bizarre circumstances and a tentative friendship is formed. Tom learns there is far more to Maggie than he first thought.
When the library is threatened with closure, Tom and Maggie seek to help. But what can they do? And how can Tom get through to his father who is turning increasingly to alcohol? And how can he he get Farah’s attention without exposing himself to further bullying from Joshua Kemp?
I admit I am a sucker for stories of intergenerational friendships. I loved both Tom and Maggie who had a lot to deal with In life. The story deals with family relationships, choices, grief, regret, loneliness, friendship, bullying, addiction, community and, of course, books. I absolutely loved it. Once I started all I wanted to do was keep reading. There were moments that made me smile or laugh and others that brought tears or, at times, frustrations and anger.
Though dealing with issues like alcoholism, this is a lovely uplifting story with strong characters I cared about. A highly recommended read. A bit predictable towards the end perhaps for some people but I adored it from start to finish. Absolutely the right book for me at this time.
When the library is threatened with closure, Tom and Maggie seek to help. But what can they do? And how can Tom get through to his father who is turning increasingly to alcohol? And how can he he get Farah’s attention without exposing himself to further bullying from Joshua Kemp?
I admit I am a sucker for stories of intergenerational friendships. I loved both Tom and Maggie who had a lot to deal with In life. The story deals with family relationships, choices, grief, regret, loneliness, friendship, bullying, addiction, community and, of course, books. I absolutely loved it. Once I started all I wanted to do was keep reading. There were moments that made me smile or laugh and others that brought tears or, at times, frustrations and anger.
Though dealing with issues like alcoholism, this is a lovely uplifting story with strong characters I cared about. A highly recommended read. A bit predictable towards the end perhaps for some people but I adored it from start to finish. Absolutely the right book for me at this time.
May 11, 2022
"Libraries are more than just a storage place for books, they are treasure troves filled with creativity and knowledge. And that knowledge can be empowering.” - R.L. Hemlock
This was the perfect book to end my reading slump!
Two people - Tom is a lonely teenager. Maggie is in her 70s and lonely as well. What brings them together? A library!
I love how Tom and Maggie formed a friendship. They were both what the other needed. I also loved how the library was a catalyst for change in both of their lives. How two lonely people, who on the surface, had nothing in common except for coming to the library for solace and belonging. When the librarian learns the library was in threat of closing, both pick up the torch and vow to help save it. In the process, they just might save themselves as well!
This was such a charming book that also dealt with difficult subjects. I have been reading some less than amazing books lately and this one was just a pleasure from cover to cover. It does address some heavy subjects such as alcoholism, loss, loneliness, and relationships to name a few.
I enjoyed the writing and story. I appreciated how the author dealt with the difficult subjects and how the two main characters found each other and the bond they shared.
Thank you to Aria & Aries, Aria and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
This was the perfect book to end my reading slump!
Two people - Tom is a lonely teenager. Maggie is in her 70s and lonely as well. What brings them together? A library!
I love how Tom and Maggie formed a friendship. They were both what the other needed. I also loved how the library was a catalyst for change in both of their lives. How two lonely people, who on the surface, had nothing in common except for coming to the library for solace and belonging. When the librarian learns the library was in threat of closing, both pick up the torch and vow to help save it. In the process, they just might save themselves as well!
This was such a charming book that also dealt with difficult subjects. I have been reading some less than amazing books lately and this one was just a pleasure from cover to cover. It does address some heavy subjects such as alcoholism, loss, loneliness, and relationships to name a few.
I enjoyed the writing and story. I appreciated how the author dealt with the difficult subjects and how the two main characters found each other and the bond they shared.
Thank you to Aria & Aries, Aria and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
August 8, 2021
The Library is a charming contemporary fiction novel about the friendship between a lonely teenager and a stoic old lady. It’s not my usual reading fare, but I do like the occasional heartwarmer in between all the thrillers, and this one hit all the right notes.
Tom Harris lives with his widowed alcoholic father, and goes red whenever his gorgeous classmate Farah looks at him. One boring Saturday day he finds himself in the library, and discovers a passion for reading. Maggie lives alone on her farm with her sheep, and sees in young Tom the son she lost years before. When the council propose closing their local library, Maggie and Tom will rally together their small English village to help save it.
I wonder if there’s a term for comedy-dramas that are about finding friendship, rather than romantic love - chum-com?
While entirely predictable, this had just the right amount of sad bits and happy bits, endearing bonding moments and pointless fall-outs, cute animals and a challenge to meet that you know will have a happy ending. Tom’s initial oblivious self-centredness felt very realistic - he’s a nice boy and I enjoyed the coming of age aspects here as he learns that it’s not all about him. Maggie was a great character, spiky and tough, and the descriptions of her cooking had my mouth watering. 4.5 rounded up because who doesn’t love a book about bookworms!
Thanks to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for the ARC. The Library is published on September 2nd.
Tom Harris lives with his widowed alcoholic father, and goes red whenever his gorgeous classmate Farah looks at him. One boring Saturday day he finds himself in the library, and discovers a passion for reading. Maggie lives alone on her farm with her sheep, and sees in young Tom the son she lost years before. When the council propose closing their local library, Maggie and Tom will rally together their small English village to help save it.
I wonder if there’s a term for comedy-dramas that are about finding friendship, rather than romantic love - chum-com?
While entirely predictable, this had just the right amount of sad bits and happy bits, endearing bonding moments and pointless fall-outs, cute animals and a challenge to meet that you know will have a happy ending. Tom’s initial oblivious self-centredness felt very realistic - he’s a nice boy and I enjoyed the coming of age aspects here as he learns that it’s not all about him. Maggie was a great character, spiky and tough, and the descriptions of her cooking had my mouth watering. 4.5 rounded up because who doesn’t love a book about bookworms!
Thanks to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for the ARC. The Library is published on September 2nd.
December 19, 2021
Tom Harris is struggling. He is 16-years-old, has no close friends and tragically lost his mother when he was eight. His father is an unhappy factory worker drowning his sorrows in alcohol. A chance meeting at the town’s library with 72-year-old Maggie changes everything. Maggie is a flower child of the ‘60s and cares for animals on her small farm. A special bond is created that opens up a new world for Tom. And widowed Maggie’s life is brightened by the new friendship. When it is announced that their library is slated for closing, Maggie and Tom gear into action. But this is much more than a “save the library” story. It is a very touching book about how two people help each other fill a deep void in their lives.
Emotional without being sappy, author Bella Osborne has created two endearing characters to truly care about. And the backdrop of books and the love of libraries should appeal to avid readers. Check out this lovely book.
Rated 4.25 stars.
Emotional without being sappy, author Bella Osborne has created two endearing characters to truly care about. And the backdrop of books and the love of libraries should appeal to avid readers. Check out this lovely book.
Rated 4.25 stars.
April 19, 2022
If you love reading, books, libraries and a story based around all these things then this book is for you
It was soooo enjoyable I am not sure where to start in trying to ‘get over’ how good it was
Basically a young disillusioned chap, Tom, finds friendship with Maggie, a lonely ‘old lady’, the friendship, although unlikely turns into a life changing series of events for them both as amongst other things they face alcoholism, past secrets, first love ( Tom ), bullying and the centre piece of the book the imminent closure of their village library
Much reference to wonderful food and baking and cakes and also fascinating snippets on farming life and lambing and puppies
I couldn’t have picked a more ideal book, in every way, its a real feelgood happy read referencing authors and books and the joy of reading that most of us will relate to
In this world of late a book like this stands out for just being so positive
Yep I loved it
10/10
5 Stars
It was soooo enjoyable I am not sure where to start in trying to ‘get over’ how good it was
Basically a young disillusioned chap, Tom, finds friendship with Maggie, a lonely ‘old lady’, the friendship, although unlikely turns into a life changing series of events for them both as amongst other things they face alcoholism, past secrets, first love ( Tom ), bullying and the centre piece of the book the imminent closure of their village library
Much reference to wonderful food and baking and cakes and also fascinating snippets on farming life and lambing and puppies
I couldn’t have picked a more ideal book, in every way, its a real feelgood happy read referencing authors and books and the joy of reading that most of us will relate to
In this world of late a book like this stands out for just being so positive
Yep I loved it
10/10
5 Stars
August 3, 2022
I always like reading books by this author and think this novel was far better than my last read… by a long way. I really enjoyed this one and thought the narrative was a perfect example of cosy escapism – what more could you want from a book?!
For sure, a book about a library is almost guaranteed to appeal to a self-confessed bibliophile but in this case, the library is the backdrop to two very lonely characters that had me reaching through the pages and giving them both a virtual hug. Both Tom and Maggie are at very different stages of their life but the similarities between them are striking. I loved how the library brought them together and I think this is Osborne’s nod to libraries across the world: their importance and the difference they make to so many people, whether it be through reading or the social element of the building.
Maggie’s story is heart-wrenching and her lonely confessions in her narrative were startling. I admired her strength and loved watching her grow over the novel, showing that regardless of age, there is always an opportunity to turn your life around. Living on her farm, Maggie is surrounded by what would seem an idyllic lifestyle: sheep, open space and her own boss. Yet, it is evident that Maggie is stifling in her loneliness and I enjoyed how Osborne gradually reveals more about Maggie’s background. Over the story, thanks to the alternating chapters between Maggie and Tom, readers learn so much about this aged character and I think the changes she undergoes made me warm to her even more.
In contrast, young Tom is gearing up to take his GCSEs but finds life at home to be trapping him in a way he feels he cannot escape. He is older beyond his years and the situation between Tom and his father was so poignant and emotive. Heading to the library literally opens doors for Tom and I was cheering for him throughout the story with the hurdles he faces. On the surface, you would not expect Tom and Maggie to become such close friends and the familial relationship that develops shows just how much each character needed one another – they just didn’t realise it. I think I also appreciated how Osborne subverts stereotypes with Tom’s character in his actions and reading choices, making him even more memorable in the story.
Throughout the story, there are plenty of references to novels – and I cheered when I had read so many of these that Osborne includes. (My ‘To Be Read’ pile can sigh with relief!) The characters that centre around the library are entertaining and I found Christine’s solution of making a poster for every crisis to be especially funny. The library becomes synonymous to the community and is a stark reflection of the reality of our own community libraries. I did wonder how the fate of the library would be decided and could not foresee how Osborne would resolve this, especially as it appeared inevitable that the actions of the community cannot prevent its closure. However, if I am honest, I became more invested in Tom and Maggie’s stories, forgetting a little bit about the library and what would happen. I think this is because I loved their characters so much.
Another memorable winner from Osborne and one I won’t forget in a hurry. It is the characters that make this story and I love how they are developed over the story with the library as the backdrop. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Aria books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
For sure, a book about a library is almost guaranteed to appeal to a self-confessed bibliophile but in this case, the library is the backdrop to two very lonely characters that had me reaching through the pages and giving them both a virtual hug. Both Tom and Maggie are at very different stages of their life but the similarities between them are striking. I loved how the library brought them together and I think this is Osborne’s nod to libraries across the world: their importance and the difference they make to so many people, whether it be through reading or the social element of the building.
Maggie’s story is heart-wrenching and her lonely confessions in her narrative were startling. I admired her strength and loved watching her grow over the novel, showing that regardless of age, there is always an opportunity to turn your life around. Living on her farm, Maggie is surrounded by what would seem an idyllic lifestyle: sheep, open space and her own boss. Yet, it is evident that Maggie is stifling in her loneliness and I enjoyed how Osborne gradually reveals more about Maggie’s background. Over the story, thanks to the alternating chapters between Maggie and Tom, readers learn so much about this aged character and I think the changes she undergoes made me warm to her even more.
In contrast, young Tom is gearing up to take his GCSEs but finds life at home to be trapping him in a way he feels he cannot escape. He is older beyond his years and the situation between Tom and his father was so poignant and emotive. Heading to the library literally opens doors for Tom and I was cheering for him throughout the story with the hurdles he faces. On the surface, you would not expect Tom and Maggie to become such close friends and the familial relationship that develops shows just how much each character needed one another – they just didn’t realise it. I think I also appreciated how Osborne subverts stereotypes with Tom’s character in his actions and reading choices, making him even more memorable in the story.
Throughout the story, there are plenty of references to novels – and I cheered when I had read so many of these that Osborne includes. (My ‘To Be Read’ pile can sigh with relief!) The characters that centre around the library are entertaining and I found Christine’s solution of making a poster for every crisis to be especially funny. The library becomes synonymous to the community and is a stark reflection of the reality of our own community libraries. I did wonder how the fate of the library would be decided and could not foresee how Osborne would resolve this, especially as it appeared inevitable that the actions of the community cannot prevent its closure. However, if I am honest, I became more invested in Tom and Maggie’s stories, forgetting a little bit about the library and what would happen. I think this is because I loved their characters so much.
Another memorable winner from Osborne and one I won’t forget in a hurry. It is the characters that make this story and I love how they are developed over the story with the library as the backdrop. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Aria books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2021
This is the first book I've read by Bella Osborne and I thoroughly enjoyed it. This book kept me engaged throughout. It is about a friendship between 16 year old Tom and 72 year old Maggie who met at the village library. Tom's mother died and he's living with his Dad, who is an alcoholic. Maggie lives alone on a farm and enjoys it. Tom has a crush on Farah, who enjoys romance novels, so Tom goes to the library in hopes of either seeing Farah there or learning more about women by learning about romance novels. Maggie goes to the library once a week for book club as a way of interacting with others. When the small library is under threat of closure, Tom and Maggie help to rally the community to save the library. That's just the highlights - the really interesting part of this story is the relationships among the characters, most especially Tom and Maggie.
Good characters, good plot and well written make for a lot of enjoyment. Thanks to Aria & Aries through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on September 2, 2021.
Good characters, good plot and well written make for a lot of enjoyment. Thanks to Aria & Aries through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on September 2, 2021.
March 7, 2023
приємна і доволі проста історія про сором'язливого підлітка Тома з проблемної родини та самотню літню жінку Меґґі, які знайомляться в сільській бібліотеці і несподівано для всіх стають друзями.
мені дуже сподобалася Меґґі, це абсолютно прекрасна героїня. смілива і в той же час крихка, вона може здивувати, захопити, повести за собою, переконати і відстояти свої переконання. вона пече лимонні торти, розводить ягнят, водить квадрацикл і трактор, читає книги, любить яскравий одяг, володіє бойовими мистецтвами, стоїть на голові, відвідує читацькі клуби і проводить протестні демонстрації. дуже цілісний образ, я б хотіла побувати у неї в гостях.
спіймала невеличкий culture gap поки читала. для мене як для українки очевидно, що якщо немає грошей, але є прибудинкова територія, то треба посадить як мінімум редисочку і зелень, а тут для бідної родини овочі в раціоні - це незрозумілий концепт і posh things.
мені дуже сподобалася Меґґі, це абсолютно прекрасна героїня. смілива і в той же час крихка, вона може здивувати, захопити, повести за собою, переконати і відстояти свої переконання. вона пече лимонні торти, розводить ягнят, водить квадрацикл і трактор, читає книги, любить яскравий одяг, володіє бойовими мистецтвами, стоїть на голові, відвідує читацькі клуби і проводить протестні демонстрації. дуже цілісний образ, я б хотіла побувати у неї в гостях.
спіймала невеличкий culture gap поки читала. для мене як для українки очевидно, що якщо немає грошей, але є прибудинкова територія, то треба посадить як мінімум редисочку і зелень, а тут для бідної родини овочі в раціоні - це незрозумілий концепт і posh things.
July 31, 2023
This is a contemporary fiction by English author Bella Osborne, featuring 16 year-old Tom Harris who seeks refuge from the difficulties of his life in the Compton Mallow Library where he meets the quirky 72 year-old Maggie Mann. Tom is struggling to get through his GCSE exams and avoid a looming future working in the dog food factory. His grieving alcoholic father seems not to see his distress or to understand his dreams. Gradually Maggie and Tom become friends, enriching both of their lives. Along with his high-school crush, Farah Shah, Tom and Maggie band together to rescue the library from imminent closure.
This is a pleasant, if predictable, heart-warming story, bringing together young and old. The audio narration was disappointing with the male voices sounding rather odd. 3.5 stars
This is a pleasant, if predictable, heart-warming story, bringing together young and old. The audio narration was disappointing with the male voices sounding rather odd. 3.5 stars
August 29, 2021
“Like the rest of you, I always thought the library would be here. I never expected it to be under threat. It’s a stark reminder to not take anything in life for granted. You only properly start fighting for something when you realise you’re going to lose it.”
The Library is a novel by British author, Bella Osborne. Compton Mallow’s village library is many things to many people: for seventy-two-year-old Maggie, it represents a break from Providence Farm, some social interaction with her book club and a chance to read the papers; for sixteen-year-old Thomas Harris, it’s quiet place to study and revise for his GCSEs, and a source of the romance novels he hopes will teach him how to attract a certain girl.
While it’s inevitable that they notice each other, it’s not until Maggie punches Tom on the nose that they get to know one another better. Maggie is quickly impressed with this introverted young man, finding his company refreshing. While she is mostly self-sufficient at the farm, when she asks for help, Tom readily agrees, especially as a roast dinner is on offer. His dad’s cooking could never come close and, while not prepared to openly admit it, Tom is surprised at the rapport he has with this witty old lady.
When he encounters that certain girl in the library, he manages to chat about books without being wholly overcome by the embarrassment that usually plagues him. Later, they learn that the library is under threat of closure and, together with Maggie’s book group and other library patrons, they vow to fight the council’s short-sighted plan.
Meanwhile, Maggie calls on Tom’s assistance more often, glad that he is both willing and interested in farm work, and she’s happy to have someone else to cook for. They open up more to one another, and Maggie has sound advice about study and further education. On the farm, Tom finds himself involved in tasks he could never have anticipated, and enthralled by newborn animals.
When Tom phones Maggie in a panic one night, she does not hesitate to come to his aid, and their relationship enters a new phase. But Maggie has not been entirely honest about her past, a past that Tom’s continued presence has her reaching out for, with unfortunate consequences.
What a wonderful cast of characters Osborne gives the reader: appealing for all their very human flaws, growing and changing with the challenges they face. And there are quite a few: alcoholism, loneliness, grief, guilt, social isolation and low self-esteem. It’s lovely to see Tom and Maggie ultimately fighting for the library that brought them together when they most needed to meet. This is a delightfully funny, heart-warming feel-good story with a satisfying happy ending.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Aria & Aries
The Library is a novel by British author, Bella Osborne. Compton Mallow’s village library is many things to many people: for seventy-two-year-old Maggie, it represents a break from Providence Farm, some social interaction with her book club and a chance to read the papers; for sixteen-year-old Thomas Harris, it’s quiet place to study and revise for his GCSEs, and a source of the romance novels he hopes will teach him how to attract a certain girl.
While it’s inevitable that they notice each other, it’s not until Maggie punches Tom on the nose that they get to know one another better. Maggie is quickly impressed with this introverted young man, finding his company refreshing. While she is mostly self-sufficient at the farm, when she asks for help, Tom readily agrees, especially as a roast dinner is on offer. His dad’s cooking could never come close and, while not prepared to openly admit it, Tom is surprised at the rapport he has with this witty old lady.
When he encounters that certain girl in the library, he manages to chat about books without being wholly overcome by the embarrassment that usually plagues him. Later, they learn that the library is under threat of closure and, together with Maggie’s book group and other library patrons, they vow to fight the council’s short-sighted plan.
Meanwhile, Maggie calls on Tom’s assistance more often, glad that he is both willing and interested in farm work, and she’s happy to have someone else to cook for. They open up more to one another, and Maggie has sound advice about study and further education. On the farm, Tom finds himself involved in tasks he could never have anticipated, and enthralled by newborn animals.
When Tom phones Maggie in a panic one night, she does not hesitate to come to his aid, and their relationship enters a new phase. But Maggie has not been entirely honest about her past, a past that Tom’s continued presence has her reaching out for, with unfortunate consequences.
What a wonderful cast of characters Osborne gives the reader: appealing for all their very human flaws, growing and changing with the challenges they face. And there are quite a few: alcoholism, loneliness, grief, guilt, social isolation and low self-esteem. It’s lovely to see Tom and Maggie ultimately fighting for the library that brought them together when they most needed to meet. This is a delightfully funny, heart-warming feel-good story with a satisfying happy ending.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Aria & Aries
June 8, 2022
An introverted sixteen year old boy meets an introverted seventy two year old woman at the library, both of them live fairly solitary lifestyles, each one seeking some sense of solace and inclusion without the commitment required of normal social interaction.
The library seems to be an obvious choice for fulfilling the needs of the socially inept with its open doors inviting people from all walks of life to participate equally and without judgment.
Even someone as socially awkward as sixteen year old Tom can find a sense of equilibrium just entering the quiet, calming space of his local library. He can be comfortably invisible here whilst still interacting in social activities.
Tom and his father have lived alone since his mother died when he was a child. With his father working shifts trying to make ends meet, they don’t see much of each other and live a very humble lifestyle with a quiet routine.
After falling out with his father over the time he spends in his room on his XBox, Tom discovered that the library could offer him some respite from the hours he spends at home alone. He is by nature very shy and awkward around people and prefers to stay at home where he feels safe. Because of this he doesn’t make friends, but he does feel the need for company sometimes.
Seventy two year old Maggie has had to get used to a life of solitude since her husband died ten years ago. She lives on a few acres of land in the outskirts of town and keeps a small menagerie of chickens and sheep, and growing her own vegetables is enough to sustain her physical needs. She loves her life but finds it lonely at times.
Her interaction with others is mostly limited to her sharing some jobs with her grumpy but reliable old neighbour in return for the occasional assistance on some other job too big for one.
For Maggie the library has become her routine weekly social outing. She catches the bus into town where she can mingle among people with minimum fuss. She meets up with the book club group and interacts with them about their latest book read, and that’s enough for her. It’s not that she dislikes people, she just doesn’t want the complications or commitment required of close friendships. Her weekly library visits sustain her emotional and intellectual needs.
When Maggie noticed a young teenage boy enter the library that she hadn’t seen before, she watched him out of fascinated curiosity. When he saw her watching he quickly started perusing books in his immediate vicinity, not realising he was hovering suspiciously in the romance section of books. Maggie was fully amused and intrigued by now and continued to watch him furtively, she thought she recognised something in him that she understood well.
In an embarrassingly comedic scene where Tom is confronted by the librarian regarding his book preferences, Tom finds himself checking out several copies of romance novels which he now feels obliged to read…fearful that he might be quizzed on them on return.
It is under these circumstances that Tom and Maggie are destined to meet in an even more awkward moment in the street near the library. This encounter heralds the beginning of a unique friendship that takes the reader on a fragile journey through love and all its guises.
4⭐️s
The library seems to be an obvious choice for fulfilling the needs of the socially inept with its open doors inviting people from all walks of life to participate equally and without judgment.
Even someone as socially awkward as sixteen year old Tom can find a sense of equilibrium just entering the quiet, calming space of his local library. He can be comfortably invisible here whilst still interacting in social activities.
Tom and his father have lived alone since his mother died when he was a child. With his father working shifts trying to make ends meet, they don’t see much of each other and live a very humble lifestyle with a quiet routine.
After falling out with his father over the time he spends in his room on his XBox, Tom discovered that the library could offer him some respite from the hours he spends at home alone. He is by nature very shy and awkward around people and prefers to stay at home where he feels safe. Because of this he doesn’t make friends, but he does feel the need for company sometimes.
Seventy two year old Maggie has had to get used to a life of solitude since her husband died ten years ago. She lives on a few acres of land in the outskirts of town and keeps a small menagerie of chickens and sheep, and growing her own vegetables is enough to sustain her physical needs. She loves her life but finds it lonely at times.
Her interaction with others is mostly limited to her sharing some jobs with her grumpy but reliable old neighbour in return for the occasional assistance on some other job too big for one.
For Maggie the library has become her routine weekly social outing. She catches the bus into town where she can mingle among people with minimum fuss. She meets up with the book club group and interacts with them about their latest book read, and that’s enough for her. It’s not that she dislikes people, she just doesn’t want the complications or commitment required of close friendships. Her weekly library visits sustain her emotional and intellectual needs.
When Maggie noticed a young teenage boy enter the library that she hadn’t seen before, she watched him out of fascinated curiosity. When he saw her watching he quickly started perusing books in his immediate vicinity, not realising he was hovering suspiciously in the romance section of books. Maggie was fully amused and intrigued by now and continued to watch him furtively, she thought she recognised something in him that she understood well.
In an embarrassingly comedic scene where Tom is confronted by the librarian regarding his book preferences, Tom finds himself checking out several copies of romance novels which he now feels obliged to read…fearful that he might be quizzed on them on return.
It is under these circumstances that Tom and Maggie are destined to meet in an even more awkward moment in the street near the library. This encounter heralds the beginning of a unique friendship that takes the reader on a fragile journey through love and all its guises.
4⭐️s
July 28, 2025
The Library is one of my top reads of 2023 📚
𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝒂𝒏 𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒍. 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒊𝒔 𝒂 𝒌𝒆𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒖𝒏𝒍𝒐𝒄𝒌𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅, 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒔 𝒖𝒔 𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒂 𝒅𝒊𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒍𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒏 𝒖𝒏𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆. 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒂 𝒈𝒊𝒇𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒆𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘𝒍𝒆𝒅𝒈𝒆, 𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒐𝒓 𝒑𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒆𝒔𝒄𝒂𝒑𝒊𝒔𝒎 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘𝒔 𝒘𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆.
I loved every bit of it and wished it never ended.
Tom and Maggie, the protagonists of our story are awesome characters. The storyline, details, other characters and the fact that The Library is an important part of the books makes it a reader's heaven!
If you're looking for something that makes you feel like home, The Library is it 📖
I can't recommend it enough.
My first book by Bella Osborne and I am so in love with The Library that I'm going to check others as well. All I can say is she took something really simple and made it fun and exciting with her beautiful writing style!
𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝒂𝒏 𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒍. 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒊𝒔 𝒂 𝒌𝒆𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒖𝒏𝒍𝒐𝒄𝒌𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅, 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒔 𝒖𝒔 𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒂 𝒅𝒊𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒍𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒏 𝒖𝒏𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆. 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒂 𝒈𝒊𝒇𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒆𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘𝒍𝒆𝒅𝒈𝒆, 𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒐𝒓 𝒑𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒆𝒔𝒄𝒂𝒑𝒊𝒔𝒎 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘𝒔 𝒘𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆.
I loved every bit of it and wished it never ended.
Tom and Maggie, the protagonists of our story are awesome characters. The storyline, details, other characters and the fact that The Library is an important part of the books makes it a reader's heaven!
If you're looking for something that makes you feel like home, The Library is it 📖
I can't recommend it enough.
My first book by Bella Osborne and I am so in love with The Library that I'm going to check others as well. All I can say is she took something really simple and made it fun and exciting with her beautiful writing style!
May 4, 2022
“Like the rest of you, I always thought the library would be here. I never expected it to be under threat. It’s a stark reminder to not take anything in life for granted. You only properly start fighting for something when you realise you’re going to lose it.”
The Library is a novel by British author, Bella Osborne. The audio version is narrated by Julia Franklin and Harry Lister Smith. Compton Mallow’s village library is many things to many people: for seventy-two-year-old Maggie, it represents a break from Providence Farm, some social interaction with her book club and a chance to read the papers; for sixteen-year-old Thomas Harris, it’s quiet place to study and revise for his GCSEs, and a source of the romance novels he hopes will teach him how to attract a certain girl.
While it’s inevitable that they notice each other, it’s not until Maggie punches Tom on the nose that they get to know one another better. Maggie is quickly impressed with this introverted young man, finding his company refreshing. While she is mostly self-sufficient at the farm, when she asks for help, Tom readily agrees, especially as a roast dinner is on offer. His dad’s cooking could never come close and, while not prepared to openly admit it, Tom is surprised at the rapport he has with this witty old lady.
When he encounters that certain girl in the library, he manages to chat about books without being wholly overcome by the embarrassment that usually plagues him. Later, they learn that the library is under threat of closure and, together with Maggie’s book group and other library patrons, they vow to fight the council’s short-sighted plan.
Meanwhile, Maggie calls on Tom’s assistance more often, glad that he is both willing and interested in farm work, and she’s happy to have someone else to cook for. They open up more to one another, and Maggie has sound advice about study and further education. On the farm, Tom finds himself involved in tasks he could never have anticipated, and enthralled by newborn animals.
When Tom phones Maggie in a panic one night, she does not hesitate to come to his aid, and their relationship enters a new phase. But Maggie has not been entirely honest about her past, a past that Tom’s continued presence has her reaching out for, with unfortunate consequences.
What a wonderful cast of characters Osborne gives the reader: appealing for all their very human flaws, growing and changing with the challenges they face. And there are quite a few: alcoholism, loneliness, grief, guilt, social isolation and low self-esteem. It’s lovely to see Tom and Maggie ultimately fighting for the library that brought them together when they most needed to meet. This is a delightfully funny, heart-warming feel-good story with a satisfying happy ending.
The Library is a novel by British author, Bella Osborne. The audio version is narrated by Julia Franklin and Harry Lister Smith. Compton Mallow’s village library is many things to many people: for seventy-two-year-old Maggie, it represents a break from Providence Farm, some social interaction with her book club and a chance to read the papers; for sixteen-year-old Thomas Harris, it’s quiet place to study and revise for his GCSEs, and a source of the romance novels he hopes will teach him how to attract a certain girl.
While it’s inevitable that they notice each other, it’s not until Maggie punches Tom on the nose that they get to know one another better. Maggie is quickly impressed with this introverted young man, finding his company refreshing. While she is mostly self-sufficient at the farm, when she asks for help, Tom readily agrees, especially as a roast dinner is on offer. His dad’s cooking could never come close and, while not prepared to openly admit it, Tom is surprised at the rapport he has with this witty old lady.
When he encounters that certain girl in the library, he manages to chat about books without being wholly overcome by the embarrassment that usually plagues him. Later, they learn that the library is under threat of closure and, together with Maggie’s book group and other library patrons, they vow to fight the council’s short-sighted plan.
Meanwhile, Maggie calls on Tom’s assistance more often, glad that he is both willing and interested in farm work, and she’s happy to have someone else to cook for. They open up more to one another, and Maggie has sound advice about study and further education. On the farm, Tom finds himself involved in tasks he could never have anticipated, and enthralled by newborn animals.
When Tom phones Maggie in a panic one night, she does not hesitate to come to his aid, and their relationship enters a new phase. But Maggie has not been entirely honest about her past, a past that Tom’s continued presence has her reaching out for, with unfortunate consequences.
What a wonderful cast of characters Osborne gives the reader: appealing for all their very human flaws, growing and changing with the challenges they face. And there are quite a few: alcoholism, loneliness, grief, guilt, social isolation and low self-esteem. It’s lovely to see Tom and Maggie ultimately fighting for the library that brought them together when they most needed to meet. This is a delightfully funny, heart-warming feel-good story with a satisfying happy ending.
December 4, 2021
3.5 rounded up.
A story about the intergenerational friendship between two people dealing with their own forms of grief and the ways they bond over books at their local library. Tom's mother is dead and he is left living with his alcoholic father. Life is hard and he finds joy and escape in the romance novels he checks out for his 'mother' at his local library. He also meets Maggie, an older woman dealing with her own grief over the loss of her son. The two bond and Maggie offers Tom a safe space and solace from the turmoil of his home life. Recommended for fans of The reading list or The last chance library. Great on audio and definitely one for book lovers and those who like seeing small town people fighting to save their local libraries. Much thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my advance review copy!
CW: death of a parent, alcoholism
A story about the intergenerational friendship between two people dealing with their own forms of grief and the ways they bond over books at their local library. Tom's mother is dead and he is left living with his alcoholic father. Life is hard and he finds joy and escape in the romance novels he checks out for his 'mother' at his local library. He also meets Maggie, an older woman dealing with her own grief over the loss of her son. The two bond and Maggie offers Tom a safe space and solace from the turmoil of his home life. Recommended for fans of The reading list or The last chance library. Great on audio and definitely one for book lovers and those who like seeing small town people fighting to save their local libraries. Much thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my advance review copy!
CW: death of a parent, alcoholism
December 30, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was such an enjoyable read. I adore books that center around libraries and literature, so I was excited to give this one a read. And although the library and its potential closure plays a part in this story, the real gem is the friendship between 16-year-old socially awkward Tom who lost his Mom and is slowly losing his Dad to alcoholism, and Maggie, a lonely 72-year-old widow who lost her son. Watching these two meet and form a friendship was just heartwarming. Throw in a cast of equally endearing side characters. An angry ram named Colin, tons of feels, a sweet ending and you have yourself a book worth recommending!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
This was such an enjoyable read. I adore books that center around libraries and literature, so I was excited to give this one a read. And although the library and its potential closure plays a part in this story, the real gem is the friendship between 16-year-old socially awkward Tom who lost his Mom and is slowly losing his Dad to alcoholism, and Maggie, a lonely 72-year-old widow who lost her son. Watching these two meet and form a friendship was just heartwarming. Throw in a cast of equally endearing side characters. An angry ram named Colin, tons of feels, a sweet ending and you have yourself a book worth recommending!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
November 14, 2021
The Library a fantastic literary four-star read. Tom and Maggie will get you in their story, they will make you care about them, their anxiety and struggles. Having Tom and Maggie walk you through their story, revealing their secrets as they go. It’s a social reminder of what we can lose and how easy we can lose them, but it’s also friendship and life. This is a great story, and the two main characters will keep you going, but there are also lots of secondary characters that will charm you, and recipes that will make you mouth water.
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