A review by vlreid
The Bookbinder by Pip Williams

5.0

This is the second book written by Pip Williams that I've read; the first was The Dictionary of Lost Words which I read for book club last summer. Both books are set in Oxford, England, deal with the Oxford Publishing House, and have some crossover characters. This book (and both books, actually) is extremely charming and lovely, pulling me into the lives of these characters during World War I. Peggy and Maude are twin sisters who have worked in the bindery of the Oxford Publishing House since they were 12 years old. They live on a narrow boat and have followed in their mother's footsteps by working in the bindery. Peggy longs to go to college, but family circumstances have not offered her that opportunity, especially since she has to keep an eye on Maude after her mother's death. Her world expands when Belgian refugees arrive in Oxford and start working at the bindery. In addition, she volunteers at the local hospital, experiencing the horrors of war first-hand.

The book deals with words, language, books, scholarship, reading - all the things I love! There are two librarians who figure prominently in the story, and both are heroes in their own way. The story of the dedication of the two sisters is endearing, and the other characters in the book have very strong roles in Peggy and Maude's lives.

I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley and am very thankful for the opportunity to read this excellent historical novel. Overall I highly recommend this book! One of the best I've read so far this year!

Read more of my reviews at https://thegoodreader13.blogspot.com/.