The Underground Library

The Underground Library

When the Blitz imperils the heart of a London neighborhood, three young women must use their fighting spirit to save the community’s beloved library in this novel based on true events from the author of The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir. When the new deputy librarian, Juliet Lansdown, finds that Bethnal Green Library isn’t the bustling hub she is expecting, she becomes determined to breathe life back into it. But can she show the men in charge that a woman is up to the task of running the library, especially when a confrontation with her past threatens to derail her? Katie Upwood is thrilled to be working at the library, although she is only there until she heads off to university in the fall. But after the death of her beau on the front line and amid tumultuous family strife, she finds herself harboring a life-changing secret with no one to turn to for help. Sofie Baumann, a young Jewish refugee, came to London on a domestic service visa only to find herself working as a maid for a man who treats her abominably. She escapes to the library every chance she can, finding friendship in the literary community and aid in finding her sister, who is still trying to flee occupied Europe. When a slew of bombs destroys the library, Juliet relocates the stacks to the local Underground station where the city’s residents shelter nightly, determined to lend out stories that will keep spirits up. But tragedy after tragedy threatens to unmoor the women and sever the ties of their community. Will Juliet, Kate, and Sofie be able to overcome their own troubles to save the library? Or will the beating heart of their neighborhood be lost forever?

The Underground Library General Catalogue (classified List) 2d Issue

The Underground Library

Three women united by their love of books. One library that has the power to change lives, even in wartime . . . When Juliet begins work ats Bethnal Green Library, she discovers it is far from the bustling hub she was expecting. But, in the face of German Blitz attacks, she’s intent on making it a place where everyone feels safe and welcome. Katie is thrilled to be working at the library, too. But, after the death of her sweetheart on the front line, she’s in desperate need of support. Sofie, a Jewish refugee, escapes to the library every chance she gets. Though she finds comfort and friendship there, her position in London remains vulnerable. When bombs wreck the library, the books are relocated to an underground station. As the war rages, can the women use their fighting spirit to overcome their own troubles and keep the library open to all? Inspired by the true story of Bethnal Green Library. PRAISE FOR JENNIFER RYAN: '[Ryan's] emphasis is on how people, especially women, manage to keep life (and love) going when so many others are intent on destroying it' Historical Novel Society 'A deliciously warm and heartrending tale . . . It’s empowering to see women helping women' Martha Hall Kelly, New York Times bestselling author of Lilac Girls