Review by what_heather_loves - Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books

what_heather_loves 's review for:

Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books by Kirsten Miller

5.0

challenging dark emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

"'I was hoping my sons never had to find out. But it seems everyone' s secrets are being exposed these days.'

'I'm thinking in this case it might turn out for the best,' Beverly said. 'This town has been hiding too much for too long. Secrets are a disease that eats away at your soul. My grandmother always said the best disinfectant is sunlight.'"

In present day, fictional Troy in Georgia, southern USA, a battle is about to commence. It will be between conservative right-winger residents who fear change and hark back to 'the good ol' days' and progressive liberal residents who value inclusiveness and diversity. Focusing on Lula Dean's banning of some of the town's library books and the creation of her own 'suitable' bookshelves, the battle moves to the town's statue of a confederate general, exposing more than a few residents' secrets.

I enjoyed the format, with short chapters introducing characters and families who have been hurt by segregation and slavery in the town's past and by some of the current town's biogted expectations. As the chapters progress it becomes clear how the characters' lives are connected, who has harmed who and who is finally being challenged. I loved the cast of colourful characters, those fighting for a more welcoming way of life in their beloved town; those scared of change were, quite frankly, scary on themselves! It tackles essential topics including gun violance, fascism, misogyny, rape, white supremacy and homophobia with nuance, insight and wit. Horrifying yet hopeful, this comes highly recommended.

Content Warnings