The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin | Book Review

【 THE LAST BOOKSHOP IN LONDON 】

A really beautiful WWII story about books.

Genre: Historical Fiction
Author: Madeline Martin
Published: April 2021
Publisher: Hanover Square Press
Pages: 325 (paperback)

To me, this is the ultimate book about books, because it’s also set in one of my favourite historical eras to read about. This is the story of Grace who finds herself working in a bookstore in London during the Blitz. It’s a lovely tale of resilience, friendship and grief.

Considering this is a very short book (and quick read), I thought this packed a mighty punch for its size. It really digs deep into the spirit of community and the rawness of grief. It’s certainly going to be a WWII historical fiction book I’ll be recommending over and over.

But more than the history, it’s also a portrayal of a character who learns to love books and who has not always found the time or the passion for reading. And to me, that was special. Grace is an adult and she doesn’t learn to love books until she begins her time and journey in the bookstore – and that’s what I think is the best part about this.

If you want a book that proudly shows off the beauty of being a late bloomer to the reading world, this is it. Because it’s not only Grace finding love and peace in books amidst such a horrifying setting, but all the people around her who are influenced by her own passion. I thought it was a really true representation of the reading community.

And of course, who doesn’t love spending time with a book that’s set in a cosy, haphazard bookstore that has a loveably grumpy owner.