The Giver of Stars is a novel by Jojo Moyes set in Depression-era America and follows a group of women who become part of the Pack Horse Library Project in rural Kentucky.
The novel is inspired by the real-life librarians who delivered books to remote areas on horseback, promoting literacy and providing a vital service to isolated communities.
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Book Blurb
Alice Wright doesn’t love her new American husband. Nor her domineering father-in-law or the judgmental townsfolk of Baileyville, Kentucky.
Stifled and misunderstood, she yearns for escape and finds it in defiant Margery O’Hare and the sisterhood bringing books to the isolated and vulnerable. But when her father-in-law and the town turn against them, Alice fears the freedom, friendship and the new love she’s found will be lost . . .
The Giver of Stars Book Review
I really enjoyed this book and would go as far as saying this is probably my favourite Jojo Moyes book. It’s such a heartfelt story that celebrates the importance of books, the resilience of women, and the connections that help us through the hardest times.
What I loved most was how the book focused on the power of female friendship. The bond between Alice and the other women felt so genuine and uplifting. They’re all so different, but their determination and compassion bring them together in the most inspiring way.
I hadn’t heard of Eleanor Roosevelt’s travelling library initiative before, and the book introduced me to a piece of history I knew nothing about. It’s clearly well-researched, and Moyes brings the 1930s Appalachian setting to life, from the stunning landscapes to the challenges of rural life.
The story is also a tribute to the independence and strength of women who dared to defy societal expectations. Alice’s journey from feeling trapped in her marriage to finding freedom and purpose through her work with the library is so moving. Margery also stood out to me with her fierce independence and refusal to back down in the face of opposition.
There’s romance and tension but what really stayed with me was the uplifting message about the power of books to connect people and change lives. It’s a story that made me think, laugh, and cry, and I know it’ll stay with me for a long time.
What to read next
Jojo Moyes has written several other novels so I’d suggest reading those if you haven’t already. I would particularly recommend The Me Before You Trilogy and The One Plus One.
If you enjoy Jojo Moyes books, you may also enjoy books by Marian Keyes and Lucinda Riley.
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