
The Secret Society of Librarians
Inspired by a true story, a completely gripping and unforgettable WW2 historical novel
$21.25
- Paperback
464 pages
- Release Date
25 August 2026
Summary
For librarian Joyce Haddington, the pages of her favourite novels have always felt more compelling than her own life. But when war breaks out on her doorstep and a call for help rings out across the libraries of London, she knows she must act.
Taking matters into her own hands, Joyce invites a young Jewish girl to stay with her, and goes underground to begin her plans of resistance. Soon, emboldened by her friends in the Secret Society of Librarians, she pioneers a mobile library sche…
Book Details
| ISBN-13: | 9781399746410 |
|---|---|
| ISBN-10: | 1399746413 |
| Author: | Kate Thompson |
| Publisher: | Hodder & Stoughton |
| Imprint: | Hodder Paperback |
| Format: | Paperback |
| Number of Pages: | 464 |
| Release Date: | 25 August 2026 |
| Dimensions: | 198mm x 129mm |
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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 is 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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