

Taken from The Library BookĪs a bibliophile (someone who loves books), there are two things that make me extremely happy: books about books, and libraries. She also reflects on her childhood experiences in libraries studies arson and the long history of library fires attempts to burn a copy of a book herself and re-examines the case of Harry Peak, the blond-haired actor long suspected of setting fire to the library over thirty years ago.Īlong the way, she reveals how these buildings provide much more than just books – and that they are needed now more than ever.įilled with heart, passion and unforgettable characters, The Library Book is classic Susan Orlean, and an homage to a beloved institution that remains a vital part of the heart, mind and soul of our culture.


Weaving her lifelong love of books and reading with the fascinating history of libraries, Susan Orlean investigates the legendary fire to showcase the larger, crucial role that libraries play in our lives. After moving to Los Angeles, Susan Orlean became fascinated by a mysterious local crime that has gone unsolved since it was carried out on the morning of 29 April 1986: who set fire to the Los Angeles Public Library, ultimately destroying more than 400,00 books, and perhaps even more perplexing, why?
