The Secret Society of Librarians by Kate Thompson - ISBN: 9781399746373
Hardcover
War tests two librarians’ courage, secrets, and the power of books.

The Secret Society of Librarians

Inspired by a true story, a completely gripping and unforgettable WW2 historical novel

$46.75

  • Hardcover

    464 pages

  • Release Date

    24 March 2026

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Summary

Two women, torn apart by war. One shared belief in the power of books…

London, 1939. When war breaks out on librarian Joyce Kindred’s doorstep and a call for help rings out across the libraries of London, she’s determined to act. Joyce knows only the world of books can offer safety and comfort to her neighbourhood - and she will make sure no one is left behind.

Joyce sets up a mobile library scheme, but soon her acts of resist…

Book Details

ISBN-13:9781399746373
ISBN-10:1399746375
Author:Kate Thompson
Publisher:Hodder & Stoughton
Imprint:Hodder & Stoughton
Format:Hardcover
Number of Pages:464
Release Date:24 March 2026
Weight:680g
Dimensions:236mm x 160mm x 42mm
What They're Saying

Critics Review

PRAISE FOR KATE THOMPSONA captivating tale about the power of libraries and how they connect us … Meticulously researched, readers will be entranced by this fascinating slice of historyA heartwarming story of how friendship and the written word sustain us in the toughest times. Based on a little-known true story, Kate Thompson’s meticulous research and love of libraries shine through. Perfect for fans of Dear Mrs. Bird.Books help win the day in this splendid warm-hearted novel of wartime resilience and romance, based on a true storyRemarkable … Heartbreaking and inspiring, this brilliantly researched book also captures the essence of the story through its evocative words and thoughtfully written charactersLibraries create writers! And here’s a book as wrapped up in libraries as it could be …An ode to books, libraries and the resilience of women. Uplifting and heartwarming. The strength of the human spirit shines throughMy best book of the year. I loved the feeling this book gave me. The fact that this community, this love of books realty did exist and really did make a difference, was a wonderful thing to discoverWarm and uplifting historical fiction, all made to feel so real because of the historical details seamlessly woven into the storyKate Thompson is a virtuoso storyteller about women in wartime, with an acute ear for authentic dialogue and an eye for the tiny details that bring scenes to vivid life. In The Secret Society of Librarians she writes about two indomitable women, one in the London Blitz and one in Poland’s Lódz Ghetto, who were saved by the power of books. It’s a moving, immersive and unforgettable novel: a definite must-read. – Gill Paul

About The Author

Kate Thompson

Kate Thompson is a journalist and Sunday Times bestselling writer. As well as being passionate about capturing lost voices and untold social histories, Kate’s also a library campaigner. Her 100 libraries project celebrates the richness and complexity of librarians’ work and the vital role of libraries in our communities. Alongside her journalism and writing, Kate is also a podcaster and has her own podcast, From the Library with Love.

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