Reviews with content warning for Cancer - The Reading List

I loved this story from beginning to end. It is a captivating narrative that showcases the importance of books, libraries, readers, and communities. Avid readers may find many of their favorite books included in the story.

The story revolves around the heartwarming friendship between two main characters—a young pre-law student dealing with challenging family circumstances and a Kenyan gentleman in his seventies who has recently lost his life partner and struggles to adjust to his new life. Several other significant characters shape the narrative and add depth to the story.

The story explores the theme of dealing with grief and highlights how books and libraries can unite people and help them support one another during difficult times. It tells a tale of strength and resilience in the face of sadness, isolation, and hardship.

Content Warnings

andrewhatesham's review

Go to review page

emotional funny inspiring reflective fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.75

The Reading List explores themes of human connection, mental illness, bibliophilia, and the importance of libraries.

I got this book from a thrift store a while ago. I rarely buy books I've never heard of before, but this sounded interesting so I decided to pick it up. I'm really glad I did, because I liked it a lot! It didn't hook me in right away, I'm glad I kept on reading because it eventually picked up and I was entertained all the way through to the end!

I loved the premise and the characters. This makes me want to write a reading list of my own, and also to spend more time at the library.

If you like A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman and Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi, you will probably like this, it has similar vibes.

Content Warnings

aliciagrasby's review against another edition

Go to review page

emotional funny hopeful medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Content Warnings

tracy_j's review against another edition

Go to review page

emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.75

The character development was wonderful and my freaking heart is joyous but also crying right now. I love books about books.

Content Warnings

thespinystacks's review against another edition

Go to review page

emotional hopeful reflective sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Content Warnings

cynnie_reads's review against another edition

Go to review page

emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

As I look back on this book I can't help but feel love for libraries. I felt for the characters and was excited every time they learned something. I could see myself in them and in the characters of the books they were reading.
I guess the main takeaway from this story is that you can always ask for help, and it doesn't have to be in a literal way. Dare to step out of your comfort zone and experience something new, something that I know you'll grow from.

Content Warnings

More...