What do readers think of The Memory Library by Kate Storey? Write your own review.

“I once read that whenever you read a good book, somewhere in the world a door opens to allow in more light.’ He smiled sadly. ‘I’ve read a lot of good books, so my world has always been full of light.’ Quoted from The Memory Library. I was happy to find this quote as I read the book as I have been blessed with a grandmother and great grandfather who were both lifelong writers (even published!) and fostered and encouraged me to be a lifelong reader, choosing books to mark special milestones in my life. Imagine, someone giving you a special book each birthday, but you never read them until you returned home.

Those books brought reconciliation, hope and a sense of family to the person that was gifted with such a rich library of new books to open doors and avenues that now opened, as each book was picked up and read. This is a book that I am going to cherish for a long time. I have given many books to friends that spoke to me, but oftentimes I believe they were not read, or even kept for a future time to read like I would have hoped. This book has renewed my practice in giving favorite books to others and hoping that the flicker that comes from the book will light their heart and path to greater things.

On further reflection, I am buying a few copies of The Memory Library to gift to others this year. What a wonderful practice to embrace. If you haven't read this book, make time to do so before 2025 slides into April, enjoying the rich story and characters.

The Memory Library(Avon) is a brand new, must-read novel of family and friendship which will leave you feeling hopeful and inspired. It's one of those books I wish I could read again for the first time.

I love reading books about complicated mother-daughter relationships and THE MEMORY LIBRARY doesn't disappoint. I can relate to Ella's story somewhat. I have a mother issue which is similar but of course, different.

A misunderstanding is the cause of estrangement between Ella and her mother, Sally for 21 years. Ella leaves England for Australia after discovering something that raged her against Sally. But she's still important to her mom who creates an unexpected treasure which celebrates Ella's birthday - a memory library which she yearly adds a book to with a special inscription.

Ella receives a phone call which will change her life. Sally has been in accident and she needs her help. Ella returns and they learn more about each other than ever imagined.

THE MEMORY LIBRARY is about forgiveness, second-chances, love and grace.

THE MEMORY LIBRARY by Kate Storey
A mother and daughter who once loved to read together and discuss the books they had read are now estranged for no apparent reason. When the daughter, who now lives in Australia, learns her mother has fallen and needs help, Ella grudgingly flies to England to assist her mom.

Secrets and old wounds are gradually revealed. Ella increasingly discovers her mom’s life before and after Ella left in anger 20 years ago was very different from the way she remembers it. Storey reveals both mother and daughter in bits and pieces as this heart-warming tale unfolds.

Readers who look for books that slowly reveal the characters and what makes them who they are will revel in this tale of love, heartbreak, friendship, the value of books and the ties that bind a mother to her children. Lots here for book groups to discuss. A good choice for mother/daughter book group.
4 stars for a slow start.