Press & Praise

"Charles (The Paris Library) follows up her bestselling debut with a dramatic story of war and literature in WWI France. In January 1918, Jessie Carson, a librarian for the New York Public Library, accepts an invitation from Anne Morgan, the daughter of J.P. Morgan and founder of the American Committee for Devastated France (“CARD,” after the French name), to help establish a library for civilians living near the front lines in northern France.... Bibliophiles are in for a treat." —Publishers Weekly

"The author’s fictionalized depiction of historical figure Jessie Carson sensitively imagines her motivations and explores the concepts of grief and trauma, resulting in an inspiring novel that celebrates resiliency, community, and connection." —Booklist

“In this compelling ode to the astonishing power of libraries and librarians, readers are introduced to the intrepid, real-life heroine Jessie Carson who delivered hope along with books to children in war-torn France. Janet Skeslien Charles’s latest novel is – to borrow the words of one of her own characters – ‘unputdownable!’” —Marie Benedict, New York Times bestselling co-author of The Personal Librarian

“An astonishing novel of postwar WWI France with the beating heart of courageous women who change the world through books. . . and a moving tale of sacrifice, heroism, and inspired storytelling immersed in the power of books to change our lives.” —Patti Callahan Henry, New York Times bestselling author of The Secret Book of Flora Lea

“Bursting with remarkable characters and filled with heart-in-mouth moments, Miss Morgan’s Book Brigade is a hugely enjoyable read and an enthralling, emotional story rich in historical detail. . . . This wonderful book is a gift to the reader.” —Liese O’Halloran Schwarz, author of What Could Be Saved

“Janet Skeslien Charles is that perfect writer, able to take a true nugget of history and weave it into a tale that grips you from page one. She has an alchemist's eye for tiny historical detail that shimmers under her pen. . . . A rich, glorious life-affirming tribute to literature and female solidarity. Simply unforgettable!” —Kate Thompson, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Wartime Book Club

“A wonderful story about the ability of books not only to inspire, but also to rescue and restore. The characters are so richly drawn that they leap off the page… The meticulous research brings such a satisfying depth and authenticity to the narrative, and this is perfectly balanced by the compassion and humanity of the characters. I absolutely loved it!” —Ruth Hogan, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Keeper of Lost Things