blueskygreentreesyellowsun's review against another edition
5.0
Picked it up on a whim on vacation, so glad that I did. It wasn't at all what I thought it would be, it is so much more. Highly recommend.
mishmatch's review
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Literature, history, and humanity emotionally retold from the eyes of Edmond Charlot.
ejb44's review
adventurous
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
In "A Bookshop in Algiers," Kaouther Adimi weaves a scenic and tactile narrative that transports readers to the enchanting world of books, literature, and the bustling streets of Algiers. Set against the backdrop of a struggling bookstore, the novel introduces us to a myriad of complex characters whose lives intertwine in the pursuit of preserving the magic of books.
One of the standout features of the book is Adimi's remarkable ability to immerse readers in the sensory experience of the bookshop. The descriptions of the dusty shelves, the faint aroma of aging paper, and the gentle rustle of turning pages create an ambiance that evokes nostalgia and a love for the written word. The author's attention to detail paints a vivid picture, making the bookshop come alive in the reader's mind.
The characters in "A Bookshop in Algiers" are multifaceted and compelling. From the determined owner to the passionate young dreamer, each individual has their own unique struggles and aspirations. Adimi skillfully delves into their backgrounds, providing a deeper understanding of their motivations and desires. As a result, the reader becomes emotionally invested in their journeys, forming a strong connection with the cast of characters.
At its core, the novel celebrates the power of books and literature without becoming overly didactic or moralistic. Adimi beautifully portrays the importance of book reading and selling as a means of preserving culture and knowledge in a world that is rapidly modernizing. The book eloquently explores the value of a brick-and-mortar bookstore in the digital age and how it can serve as a sanctuary for bibliophiles and intellectuals alike.
While the book excels in its storytelling and thematic elements, some readers may find that the abundance of dialogue occasionally detracts from the overall pacing. At times, it feels like the plot could benefit from a more balanced distribution of narrative and conversation.
In conclusion, "A Bookshop in Algiers" is a captivating ode to the love of books and literature, skillfully portrayed through scenic descriptions and intricate characters. Kaouther Adimi effortlessly captures the essence of a struggling bookstore and its impact on the community, instilling a sense of nostalgia and wonder in the reader. Despite its minor flaw of excess dialogue, the book's rich storytelling merits a well-deserved 4 out of 5 stars.
If you are a bibliophile or appreciate a narrative that celebrates the magic of bookstores and the written word, "A Bookshop in Algiers" is a must-read that will leave you with a renewed appreciation for the enduring power of books in an ever-changing world.
One of the standout features of the book is Adimi's remarkable ability to immerse readers in the sensory experience of the bookshop. The descriptions of the dusty shelves, the faint aroma of aging paper, and the gentle rustle of turning pages create an ambiance that evokes nostalgia and a love for the written word. The author's attention to detail paints a vivid picture, making the bookshop come alive in the reader's mind.
The characters in "A Bookshop in Algiers" are multifaceted and compelling. From the determined owner to the passionate young dreamer, each individual has their own unique struggles and aspirations. Adimi skillfully delves into their backgrounds, providing a deeper understanding of their motivations and desires. As a result, the reader becomes emotionally invested in their journeys, forming a strong connection with the cast of characters.
At its core, the novel celebrates the power of books and literature without becoming overly didactic or moralistic. Adimi beautifully portrays the importance of book reading and selling as a means of preserving culture and knowledge in a world that is rapidly modernizing. The book eloquently explores the value of a brick-and-mortar bookstore in the digital age and how it can serve as a sanctuary for bibliophiles and intellectuals alike.
While the book excels in its storytelling and thematic elements, some readers may find that the abundance of dialogue occasionally detracts from the overall pacing. At times, it feels like the plot could benefit from a more balanced distribution of narrative and conversation.
In conclusion, "A Bookshop in Algiers" is a captivating ode to the love of books and literature, skillfully portrayed through scenic descriptions and intricate characters. Kaouther Adimi effortlessly captures the essence of a struggling bookstore and its impact on the community, instilling a sense of nostalgia and wonder in the reader. Despite its minor flaw of excess dialogue, the book's rich storytelling merits a well-deserved 4 out of 5 stars.
If you are a bibliophile or appreciate a narrative that celebrates the magic of bookstores and the written word, "A Bookshop in Algiers" is a must-read that will leave you with a renewed appreciation for the enduring power of books in an ever-changing world.
ainsleyiscariot's review
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
3.5
worldlibraries's review against another edition
4.0
This was such a joyful and pleasant read, with the exceptions of the French being complete a**es about not being able to accept that Algerians wanted to be free to run things their own way. Hence, I immediately recommend this book to anyone born in a settler colony, like me, or from a colonizing country, like the French. French people, specifically, I recommend you read this book immediately. The vignettes of colonizers at their worst are astonishing. How did people act and think this way?
A Frenchman, and supporter of Algerian independence, at the tender age of 20 opened a bookstore and publishing house to celebrate Mediterranean literature of various nationalities in Algeria. He could just about touch both walls of his bookstore, so slender was the store, and his small, independent publishing house was delightfully human scale. This was the literature world before television, before social media, before all of the electronic distractions invaded our lives. Literature was IT and it was lit, especially in a place deeply unsettled as to who should run things (an example of an aspirational title from the French: Algeria will be French and Happy). How pleasant to discuss typefaces, and book cover design, and publishing collaborations all day! Then the bills would come.
This publishing bookseller loved bringing writers with their ideas and readers with their need to consume ideas together. He found writing a bore, instead preferring publishing, books, and friendships. No businessman, for sure, yet he found it within himself to start up again despite having his efforts ruined, not once, but twice.
This short novel of 126 pages can be read in a few hours. It's based on a real person named Edmond Charlot and the author did considerable research in Charlot's archives. I had never heard of Charlot before, but essentially, he was the Sylvia Beach of Algeria. He nurtured famous talent like Albert Camus, when Camus was young and sitting on his storefront steps editing his manuscripts. His bookstore name describing the literature sold within: Les Vraies Richesses (Our True Wealth). Indeed!
A Frenchman, and supporter of Algerian independence, at the tender age of 20 opened a bookstore and publishing house to celebrate Mediterranean literature of various nationalities in Algeria. He could just about touch both walls of his bookstore, so slender was the store, and his small, independent publishing house was delightfully human scale. This was the literature world before television, before social media, before all of the electronic distractions invaded our lives. Literature was IT and it was lit, especially in a place deeply unsettled as to who should run things (an example of an aspirational title from the French: Algeria will be French and Happy). How pleasant to discuss typefaces, and book cover design, and publishing collaborations all day! Then the bills would come.
This publishing bookseller loved bringing writers with their ideas and readers with their need to consume ideas together. He found writing a bore, instead preferring publishing, books, and friendships. No businessman, for sure, yet he found it within himself to start up again despite having his efforts ruined, not once, but twice.
This short novel of 126 pages can be read in a few hours. It's based on a real person named Edmond Charlot and the author did considerable research in Charlot's archives. I had never heard of Charlot before, but essentially, he was the Sylvia Beach of Algeria. He nurtured famous talent like Albert Camus, when Camus was young and sitting on his storefront steps editing his manuscripts. His bookstore name describing the literature sold within: Les Vraies Richesses (Our True Wealth). Indeed!
alilv's review against another edition
3.0
3.5 stars
An interesting read about literature but mainly about Algeria and France’s relationship which was this book’s salvation as I love a historical fiction.
HOWEVEr
This book doesn’t really have a plot so by the end you’re just a bit bored.
An interesting read about literature but mainly about Algeria and France’s relationship which was this book’s salvation as I love a historical fiction.
HOWEVEr
This book doesn’t really have a plot so by the end you’re just a bit bored.
curiouslykaylee's review against another edition
3.0
I loved the chapters about Edmond Charlot and his life. I preferred these chapters to the modern day chapters following Ryad. I also enjoyed learning more about Algeria's history. Good book overall.