The Night Library

The Night Library is a charming story about the power of libraries to instill a love of reading in children—even those who do not currently think of themselves as readers. The lions guarding the New York Public Library take the protagonist on a nighttime journey to the library, where the books literally are magic, dancing and enacting some of the stories that can be found inside. Though their greatest power might be their ability to bring back fond memories of the boy’s grandfather, who was himself an avid reader.

The book might resonate most with readers who are familiar with the New York Public Library and the lions, Patience and Fortitude, that stand guard outside; however, the message about the ability of books to take you places and the power of libraries to provide access to nearly unlimited books can be generalized to any library and any reader.

The illustrations are soft and unfocused, a perfect fit for the dreamlike nature of the story itself. The Night Library is sure to be a hit with readers who love to celebrate books.