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A review by waytoomanybooks
Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan

adventurous hopeful informative lighthearted mysterious reflective relaxing medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

It's so difficult to qualify Robin Sloan's work because I've never read anything written in his special and specific tone and voice. The way he describes people and feelings makes you instantly connect with the characters and their inner lives. You can see and feel almost exactly what the characters are seeing seeing feeling. The text feels like it's a living, breathing being.

As for the work itself, it only took me a few days to read it because it has everything I love to read about: libraries, bookstores, old people teaming up with young people, second leases on life, the pursuit of knowledge, historical fiction, found families, strong friend groups, and a happy ending to boot! The twists and turns are delightful, and the suspense leaves you with happy jitters.

It's such a feel-good book. I really love it! (Also, you should check out his other book, Sourdough, too!)