This was a book club selection I had great hopes for but ended up being disappointed. On the bright side, the writing is rather beautiful in parts with several interesting passages worth to be quoted. On the negative side is the lack of plot coupled with a protagonist who is not a likable character. A. is a Lebanese recluse hiding from the world behind her love for literature. I love to read as well but not at the cost of any meaningful personal relationship. It was hard to believe that A. at some point in her life did not seem to feel some regret at being "unnecessary" when she could have given so much had she only shared her literary translations. In addition, I am obviously not as well read as she is, as several of the very many authors and titles mentioned are unfamiliar to me. I missed some character development, especially in the absence of a real story line. Not a truly enjoyable read....