The Last Library: 'I really loved this . . . a brilliant first novel' Katie Fforde

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Description

Library assistant June knows a lot about the regulars at Chalcot Library, yet they know very little about her. When her mum - the beloved local librarian - passed away eight years ago, June stepped into her shoes. But despite their shared love of books, shy June has never felt she can live up to the village's memory of her mum. Instead, she's retreated into herself and her memories, surviving on Chinese takeaways-for-one and rereading their favourite books at home.

When the library is threatened with closure, a ragtag band of eccentric locals establish the Friends of Chalcot Library campaign. There's gentlemanly pensioner Stanley, who visits the library for the computers and the crosswords, cantankerous Mrs B, who is yet to find a book she approves of, and teenager Chantal, who just wants a quiet place to study away from home. But can they compel reclusive June to join their cause

If June wants to save the library, she finally has to make some changes to her life: opening up her heart to friendship, opportunities and maybe even more . . .

Reviews

'I've spent the last few days asking myself what Matilda would do, and I'm totally in love with Mrs B. A wonderfully warm and uplifting story of kindness, community, love and libraries. The Last Library made me laugh, cry, cheer and want to champion all of our fabulous libraries' - Clare Pooley

'A powerful reminder about the importance of community, kindness and friendship. Beautifully nostalgic, with a gorgeous cast of characters you are set to fall in love with, this is a truly stunning debut' - Hannah Tovey

'Such an uplifting story with a cast of characters I fell head over heels in love with. A heartwarming portrayal of the vital role libraries have in our communities and I adored every page' - Jessica Ryn

'The Last Library is sheer joy from the first page - a story of love, loss, self-discovery and courage. Funny, poignant and a celebration of books, libraries, stories and everything that makes us human. Unmissable.' - Katie Marsh

Author Bio

Freya Sampson works in TV and was the creator and executive producer of Channel4's Four in a Bed and Gogglesprogs. She studied History at Cambridge University andis a graduate of the Faber Academy. She lives in London with her husband, twoyoung children and an antisocial cat. The Last Library is her debut novel.