The Library Book by Susan Orlean intertwines the history of the Los Angeles Public Library with a true-crime narrative about a devastating fire. Critics praise Orlean's engaging storytelling and meticulous research. However, some readers find the narrative meandering at times. Overall, it is celebrated for its rich detail and love of libraries and books.

Readers who enjoy The Library Book by Susan Orlean are typically history buffs, book lovers, and those captivated by true crime narratives. Fans of Erik Larson’s The Devil in the White City and Rebecca Skloot’s The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks will appreciate the book's meticulous research and compelling storytelling.

The Library Book by Susan Orlean recounts the story of the 1986 fire at the Los Angeles Central Library, focusing on the chief suspect, Harry Peak, and the efforts to recover and rebuild after the disaster. Through the lens of this event, Orlean explores the history and significance of libraries, their role in society, and the impact of the digital age on the preservation of knowledge. The narrative touches on themes of loss, community resilience, and the evolving need for public libraries.

Informative / Mysterious / Contemplative / Nostalgic / Emotional

- Susan Orlean's The Library Book not only delves into the fascinating history and cultural impact of the Los Angeles Public Library, but it was inspired by her own childhood love for libraries and their unique atmosphere.
- The book uses the backdrop of the 1986 fire at the Los Angeles Public Library, which destroyed 400,000 books, to explore broader topics like the significance of libraries in society and their evolving role in the digital age.
- The Library Book also highlights various quirky and dedicated library staff members, capturing their passion and the sometimes unpredictable events that occur within the library walls.

Susan Orlean

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Nonfiction

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Overview

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The Library Book  Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-4

The Library Book  Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-8

The Library Book  Chapters 5-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-12

The Library Book  Chapters 9-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-16

The Library Book  Chapters 13-16 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 17-20

The Library Book  Chapters 17-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-24

The Library Book  Chapters 21-24 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 25-28

The Library Book  Chapters 25-28 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 29-32

The Library Book  Chapters 29-32 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

The Library Book  Key Figures

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Themes

The Library Book  Themes

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The Library Book  Symbols & Motifs

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The Library Book  Important Quotes

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The Library Book  Essay Topics

The Library Book

Before You Read

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