The Library Book by Susan Orlean
Reviewed by: Beth Weimer, Communications Specialist
Genre: Nonfiction, Libraries
Suggested Age: Adults
What is this book about? This book chronicles the devastating 1986 fire of the Los Angeles Public Library – a fire that raged for seven hours, consumed more than 400,000 books, and damaged an additional 700,000 books and materials. Orlean examines the arson investigation, the eccentric suspect, and the history of that particular institution, as well as the history and importance of libraries around the world and throughout time. She also details the numerous colorful characters connected to the library, those who founded, nurtured, or antagonized Central Library through the years and its dedicated staff and patrons of today. Orlean manages to perfectly capture the day-to-day bustle, societal challenges, and expanding impact that libraries have within our communities with an account that’s insightful and entertaining.
My Review: Calling all bibliophiles, lovers of libraries, and those who question the modern relevance of the institution: this one is a must-read. Orlean is a compelling storyteller and a master of narrative nonfiction. Her dive into the library world is lovely to experience. Her approach is anything but boring: meticulous and thoughtful, witty but sensitive, expansive but still intimate. She connects the history and facts with cultural context and engaging accounts of the people involved, paying homage to library traditions and championing their value without ignoring the problems they face. It’s impossible to resist the nostalgia and sense of civic virtue her observations invoke. I think even people who don’t usually read nonfiction will find this to be an interesting and enjoyable read.
Three Words That Describe This Book: Fascinating, Evocative, Funny
Give This a Try if You Like… The Orchid Thief by Susan Orlean, Slouching Towards Bethlehem by Joan Didion, Dead Wake by Eric Larson, In the Stacks: Short Stories about Libraries and Librarians by Michael Cart.
Rating: 5/5
About FDL Reads
FDL Reads is a series of weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.
