Hello everyone, today I’ll be suggesting some lighthearted, heartwarming fiction. During hard times, immersing yourself in a good story can often help. These stories, in particular, have a reputation for being funny, engaging, and touching. Every title listed is available on Overdrive, so you can enjoy them even if you can’t come into the library!
The Library of the Lost and Found tells the story of a kind-hearted librarian who receives a book of fairy tales from her grandmother (who she believed was dead). This leads her on a path of family secrets. Who doesn’t love a book about a librarian receiving a mysterious book? With a small-town setting and lovable characters, this book is heartwarming and engaging.
This is the prequel to Hoffman’s Practical Magic but you can read this book as a standalone. If you have read Practical Magic you’ll love a further exploration of those characters.
The Rules of Magic focuses on Susannah Owens and her three children: Franny, Jet, and Vincent. Susannah sets rules to limit their use of magical gifts that her children have. She also forbids falling in love because of a generations-long family curse. When the children go to visit their aunt, they discover their family history and decide to try and end the curse. Those of you who are familiar with Practical Magic will recognize some of the characters in this funny, magical read.
Set in 1946, this book is about a writer, Juliet, who is inspired to write a book based on the letters she has exchanged with a resident of Guernsey. In them, she has learned about the titular Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, which was created to help protect members during the German occupation.
With the audiobook, the strong female lead and unique cast of characters, are brought to life. It was also adapted last year into a movie on Netflix.
Emma by Jane Austen
A classic by Jane Austen, Emma is about Emma Woodhouse, a young, rich woman who would rather play matchmaker to her friends and acquaintances than get married herself. Emma is intelligent, headstrong, and although she has the best intentions she sometimes does not see where she is going wrong. Not surprisingly, her matchmaking does not always go as planned and leads to some interesting complications. In Emma, Austen has given us a classic, witty comedy of errors featuring a good dose of romantic understandings.
That’s what I have for you this time, but I hope these recommendations provide you with some very happy reading!
Yaika S.
Circulation Supervisor