The Blackout Book Club by Amy Lynn Green
When World War II comes to Derby, Maine, wealthy Louise Cavendish decides to close her private town library to open a nursery for the children of factory workers. Avis Montgomery’s reading consists of magazine articles on How to Be the Perfect Housewife, but when her librarian brother goes to war, Avis takes his position. And when Louise unveils her plans to close the library, Avis impulsively founds the Blackout Book Club to convince Louise that the library is necessary to the town and even the war effort.
The book club soon attracts a mishmash of colorful characters. Boisterous Ginny Atkins, who has been thrust from her beloved fishing boats into a factory job. Quiet Martina Bianchini, hiding from her ne’er-do-well husband and facing discrimination as an Italian immigrant. Freddy, Louise’s mysterious new young gardener. And Martina’s bright and spirited children, Gio and Rosa.
As the effects of war are felt in the seaside town, a love of books draws these very different people together into unlikely – and binding – friendship.
A salute to the power of books and of friendship! Not only does the writing sparkle with Amy Lynn Green’s trademark wit, but the characters become your dear friends, slowly exposing the hurts and secrets that have shaped them. Come to The Blackout Book Club for the fun—stay for the depth.
