The Personal Librarian: A GMA Book Club Pick

In reading some reviews of this novel, I was quite surprised by people who found it "boring" or "slow". I was spellbound throughout the entire book. Having no idea about Morgan's "personal" librarian, I was intrigued by the events and history surrounding one of the most powerful men in the Gilded Age. More importantly, though, Belle held most of my interest, and I couldn't put the book down. I know the authors had to exercise some liberty in creating Belle's life, but most of their choices felt right, and I appreciated their comments at the end of the book explaining said choices. Belle would be one of my top 5 people I'd want to have dinner with--just to shake her hand and listen to whatever she'd want to share. Some reviewers saw Belle as more of a dealer than a librarian, but librarians purchase manuscripts and books for the libraries they work for, and in this case, when you are in charge of a private library (and one as renowned as this one was), that is one of the expectations of the position. Perhaps too much credit is given to Belle da Costa Greene (especially when supposedly convincing Jack to go public with the library), but I didn't care. That's what historical FICTION is. And I loved this book and was sad to see it end.

This was a book of resilience and determination and bravery of one woman that was an inspiration to us all

This is definitely an interesting read and is a great choice for a book club as there’s a lot to discuss. 3.5 stars ⭐️

Great insights into era!

Awesome story, and interesting facts about history throughout the book. Well written!