The Museum of Ordinary People

In this "pure, unadulterated feel-good" and warmhearted novel, an old set of encyclopedias leads a young woman to a curious museum and one profoundly moving lesson: that every life is an extraordinary life (Kirkus).

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Still reeling from the sudden death of her mother, Jess is about to do the hardest thing she's ever done: empty her childhood home so that it can be sold. As she sorts through a lifetime of memories, everything comes to a halt when she comes across something she just can't part with: an old set of encyclopedias. To the world, the books are outdated and ready to be recycled. To Jess, they represent love and the future that her mother always wanted her to have.

In the process of finding the books a new home, Jess discovers an unusual archive of letters, photographs, and curious housed in a warehouse and known as the Museum of Ordinary People. Irresistibly drawn, she becomes the museum's unofficial custodian, along with the warehouse's mysterious owner. As they delve into the history of objects in their care, they not only unravel heart-stirring stories that span generations and continents, but also unearth long-buried secrets that lie closer to home.

Inspired by an abandoned box of mementos, The Museum of Ordinary People is a poignant novel about memory and loss, the things we leave behind, and the future we create for ourselves.


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Published May 30, 2023

336 pages

Average rating: 6.93

45 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

DRamz
Jan 01, 2026
6/10 stars
The Museum of Ordinary People starts with a genuinely compelling premise, the idea that everyday lives and forgotten belongings deserve a place to be remembered. It’s a concept full of emotional potential, and Mike Gayle sets the stage for a story that could have been deeply moving. While the idea itself is strong, the execution didn’t quite land for me. The writing sometimes felt clunky, with dialogue and descriptions that didn’t flow as naturally as they could have. This occasionally pulled me out of the story rather than drawing me deeper into it. Some plot twists seemed unnecessary, and the characters never developed enough depth to fully invest in their stories. A thoughtful concept, just not as polished or impactful as it could have been.
Louise K
Mar 13, 2025
9/10 stars
I really enjoyed this book. I’ve read a couple of Mike Gayle’s books before and this one is my favourite. There are some obvious elements and some unexpected twists. With some tear jerking moments you can really connect with the characters. Would definitely recommend.

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