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The Library Book

By Susan Orlean
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3.88 goodreads logo

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Check link for latest rating. ( 122,055 ratings, 19,390 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Library Book by Susan Orlean is a captivating narrative that explores the mysterious 1986 fire at the Los Angeles Public Library. Orlean delves into the event's investigation while celebrating the diverse cultural and community roles that libraries play. Through her engaging storytelling, the book also pays homage to the dedicated individuals who cherish and protect the vast world of knowledge found within these beloved institutions.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy engaging narratives that blend history, mystery, and the love of libraries. Susan Orlean beautifully explores the fascinating story of a devastating library fire, while delving into the broader history and significance of libraries in society. It's perfect for those passionate about books, history, or intriguing true crime tales.

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The Library Book

The bestselling author of Rin Tin Tin and The Orchid Thief reopens the unsolved mystery of one of the most catastrophic library fires in history and delivers a dazzling love letter to a beloved institution - our libraries.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

A New York Times Book of the Year, 2018

A REESE WITHERSPOON x HELLO SUNSHINE BOOK CLUB PICK

A dazzling love letter to a beloved institution - our libraries.

After moving to Los Angeles, Susan Orlean became fascinated by a mysterious local crime that has gone unsolved since it was carried out on the morning of 29 April 1986: who set fire to the Los Angeles Public Library, ultimately destroying more than 400,000 books, and perhaps even more perplexing, why?

With her characteristic humour, insight and compassion, Orlean uses this terrible event as a lens through which to tell the story of all libraries - their history, their meaning, and their uncertain future as they adapt and redefine themselves in a digital world.

Filled with heart, passion and extraordinary characters, The Library Book discusses the larger, crucial role that libraries play in our lives.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Library Book by Susan Orlean has been praised for its exquisite writing and consistent entertainment value. Critics describe it as a moving and loving tribute to the public library system, rich with historical and personal narratives. It's considered a mesmerizing blend of true crime, history, and biography, celebrating libraries as community sanctuaries. Reviewers recommend it for its engaging storytelling and deep appreciation of libraries.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781782392286

Publisher: Atlantic Books

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 07 November 2019

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Atlantic Books

Edition: Main

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 25.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 0g

Pages: 336

Collections

Biography & Memoir Education & Reference History & Military Non-Fiction Science & Nature Susan Orlean True Crime

About the Author

Susan Orlean has been a staff writer at The New Yorker since 1992. She is the author of seven books, including Rin Tin Tin, Saturday Night and The Orchid Thief, which was made into the Academy Award-winning film Adaptation. She lives with her family and her animals in Los Angeles and New York and may be reached at SusanOrlean.com and Twitter.com/SusanOrlean.

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