Genre: Historical Fiction/ Woman’s Fiction

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5)

🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧(5) – Julia Whalen 

Format: Audio on Audible

Published:  October 8, 2019 by Penguin Publishing Group

First read: March 2020

Soundtrack: The Price – The Steeldrivers 

On the surface, Giver of Stars follows five Depression Era librarians who spread literacy and books via a WPA-funded Pack Horse Library. Margery, Alice, Beth, Izzy, and Sophia come from distinct backgrounds, yet they band together as they work at the library. When they threaten to expose the local coal mine owner for the person he is, the library and the character of the women themselves come under attack. Through this narrative, Moyes highlights the power of books and the lengths some will go to keep that knowledge.

I loved the way Julia Wahlen brought this book to life, and she is excellent at dragging you into the story with impeccable inflection. The plot gets heavy sometimes, yet Moyes’ writing keeps you hooked, and Julia’s voice keeps you calm. 

The writing is excellent and easy to follow, with few to no holes. Our librarian’s inner turmoil felt logical and their heartbreak real. Margary and Alice have had incredible evolutions as they both contest society’s ideal vision of a proper wife.

A must-read for historical fiction lovers, this also is an excellent pick for a book club. The Pack Horse Libraries were very real and helped spread literacy in isolated Appalachian communities over a 9 year period. With commentary on the idea of book bands and the thought that women should be meek and follow, so much insight is woven into this book.

After reviewing my 2020 reads, I did not feel anything was five(5) stars at the time, but for the time I have thought about this book, it deserves nothing less! 

Do you reflect on old reads? I currently keep my annual favorites on shelves on Goodreads and review them from time to time.

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