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An instant New York Times, Washington Post, and USA TODAY bestseller—based on the true story of the heroic librarians at the American Library in Paris during World War II—The Paris Library is a moving and unforgettable “ode to the importance of libraries, books, and the human connections we find within both” (Kristin Harmel, New York Times bestselling author).

Paris, 1939: Young and ambitious Odile Souchet seems to have the perfect life with her handsome police officer beau and a dream job at the American Library in Paris. When the Nazis march into the city, Odile stands to lose everything she holds dear, including her beloved library. Together with her fellow librarians, Odile joins the Resistance with the best weapons she has: books. But when the war finally ends, instead of freedom, Odile tastes the bitter sting of unspeakable betrayal.

Montana, 1983: Lily is a lonely teenager looking for adventure in small-town Montana. Her interest is piqued by her solitary, elderly neighbor. As Lily uncovers more about her neighbor’s mysterious past, she finds that they share a love of language, the same longings, and the same intense jealousy, never suspecting that a dark secret from the past connects them.

“A love letter to Paris, the power of books, and the beauty of intergenerational friendship” (Booklist), The Paris Libraryshows that extraordinary heroism can sometimes be found in the quietest places.

In the captivating novel "The Paris Library" by Janet Skeslien Charles, we journey to Nazi-occupied Paris during World War II, where a brave young woman named Odile Souchet becomes a librarian at the American Library in Paris. As the war rages on, Odile and her fellow librarians risk their lives to keep the library open and provide a beacon of hope for those seeking knowledge and solace amidst the chaos.

Odile's passion for literature and her determination to preserve the library's collection bring her into contact with a group of extraordinary individuals, including a charming American writer named Jack, a resourceful black market dealer, and a group of Jewish refugees seeking sanctuary. As she navigates the dangerous landscape of occupied Paris, Odile must make difficult choices and face unimaginable dangers to protect the library and the people she holds dear.

Through Odile's eyes, we witness the resilience of the human spirit and the power of books to transcend adversity. "The Paris Library" is a poignant and inspiring tale of courage, love, and the enduring power of literature in the face of darkness. Immerse yourself in this unforgettable story and discover the extraordinary lengths people will go to preserve the written word and fight for the freedom to read.