The Library of Lost and Found is not what I expected from the book description. Martha Storm is a woman in her 40s (we are not given her exact age) who cannot say no. It seems that all the locals take advantage of Martha by unloading various tasks they do not wish to do on her (fixing papier mache dragon head for school, cleaning chandeliers, doing Nora's endless bags of laundry because her machine is broken, storing items, fish sitting, hemming her nephew's pants) for which she gets nothing in return (rarely even a thank you). It does not help that Martha feels unworthy thanks to her father and his controlling nature. The story also takes us back to Betty Storm, Martha's mother, and her life with Thomas Storm. We see how Zelda affected their lives and finally what happened to Zelda. The special book left for Martha is what prompts change in Martha's life. We follow Martha's journey for the truth. While others may see The Library of Lost and Found as a feel good story, I found it depressing. The author is a verbose descriptive writer (i.e.âlong winded and detailed) which leads to a slow paced story. There is a slight uptick in the pace towards the end of the book. I thought it was a predictable story, and I wanted something more. Two phrases I liked from the book are âI take each page and chapter as they comeâ which is from Zelda and the other is âYou should always make time for booksâ (very true) from Owen. Owen wore a shirt that had âBooksellersâgreat between the sheetsâ on the front (makes me smile). For readers who like to read women's lit, you will find this story appealing. The Story of Lost and Found is about letting go of the past so you can move forward towards a brighter future.
This book is a little gem and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Martha has given up her dreams and hopes of a life for herself to take care of her aging parents and to assist and please others. It takes a delivery of old tattered books with a dedication to her, to shake things up and make her question what she wanted in life. A good story with eclectic characters and a heartwarming message! A feel good story!!
