Reading this stunning debut novel made me think of friends in my past whom I hadn’t thought of in years. It made me think of places I had visited; trips I had taken and experiences I’d had that I’d forgotten about. The novel brought me back to many of the books on the list that I had read giving me a glimpse into my past and a dream of my future.
A mysterious person has left Just in case you need it a list of eight books to read in: library books, at the bus stop, at the yoga studio, in the supermarket, the community garden and other places. The novel centers around two main characters. Seventeen-year-old, Aleisha who has a summer job working in a library and who lives with her older brother and her mother who suffers from severe depression. The other main character is Mukesh, a man in his seventies who is grieving the death of his loving wife and trying to cope with his loss. A friendship evolves between these two characters as Aleisha recommends books (from a list left in a novel) to Mukesh. As they discuss these novels their reflections comfort them on their grief.
This is a novel about how books have the power to heal. It is a novel about the injustices in the world, about terror, guilt and regret. It is about the magic of books to enhance lives and bring a community together.
The Reading List is a vivid and beautifully written story with unforgettable characters that will crush your heart.
As an added bonus to this book, I would recommend it to anyone who must write a synopsis of their own novel for it succinctly illustrates how the author captures the essence of each of the novels on the list.
Carol Balawyder 
What an innovative idea to use books as a bonding tool like that! I like that idea very much, Carol, and I can certainly see how it could work. The characters sound well-rounded and appealing, too. I can understand how this book was so appealing to you.
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It was also very interesting how the characters bonded with the characters in the books they were reading. It’s truly a beautiful (yet also sad) story.
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It sounds like a new and different idea. Something refreshing.
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Refreshing is a great word for this wonderful novel. Well worth reading. It’s entertaining but also beautiful and sad and real. xxx
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Thanks for bringing it to our attention, Carol.
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Carol, the concept and characters of this book as described so eloquently by you here intrigues me deeply. What a superb idea, books within a book,used to heal, form friendships, leading the characters (and us readers) forward in life. It sounds like a daunting book to write … and one I can’t wait to read! It’s going straight in my Christmas list! Thank you for sharing!
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I’m glad to know that it’s on your Christmas list, Annika. I don’t think you will be disappointed. For such a young writer, the author holds a great deal of insight and speaks with an open and frank voice. I absolutely loved this book! xxx
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Interesting idea. Always enjoy a pyschological anglenovel to a . (And of course another excellent review by you my friend.)
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Gee whiz!!! Now you know the reason for my typos – my mouse jumps around and I’m too impulsive when writing, (Reread the coomment, Ellie – heavens!!!! 🙂
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A mouse jumping around! 🙂 I think writers get impulsive when writing – we don’t want to miss an idea going through our heads. Thanks for being here, Ellie, and for your kind words about my review. ❤
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What an intriguing idea. You have captured my attention.
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Glad I did, Jacqui. The book is definitely one of the best I’ve read this year. I tend to read a lot of thrillers but this one isn’t that at all. It’s just a great story about community and kindness and amidst the sorrow lots of love.
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A great idea for a book. I love it.
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It is , Darlene, a great idea and also a great story. xxx If you get around to reading it you might be inspired by the nine year old granddaughter who loves reading. It was so wonderful to see a child loving books. You bring that love for reading to children through your books, Darlene. xxx
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Sounds like a book I’d love to read. I always want to read the books you review, lol. Thanks for bringing it to our attention. ❤
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It’s a lovely book with depth and I think, Debby, you will appreciate the man’s grief for his wife who recently died.
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Already added to my wishlist :). xx
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