The Giver of Stars

by Jojo Moyes
The Giver of Stars cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Historical Fiction
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 1560
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-10-08
  • ISBN: 9780143136149
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published: 2022-02-22
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3

In Depression-era Kentucky, Alice Wright escapes her stifling life in England by marrying Bennett Van Cleve, but finds herself trapped in a small town under her overbearing father-in-law's thumb. When a call goes out for women to deliver books as part of Eleanor Roosevelt's traveling library, Alice seizes the opportunity. Led by the indomitable Margery, Alice and three other extraordinary women become the Packhorse Librarians, facing dangers and hardships to bring knowledge and change to the people of Kentucky. This heartwarming and adventurous story is based on a true historical event, celebrating the power of books, the strength of women, and the bonds of friendship. The Giver of Stars is a richly rewarding novel that captures the beauty and brutality of the landscape and the unyielding spirit of the women who refuse to be cowed by men or convention.

Reviews
Chick Who Reads Everything · 2023-09-12
redeeming 3.50

The book starts slowly but picks up in the second half, making it a worthwhile read overall. The reviewer appreciates the strong female characters and their journeys.

The reviewer notes that 'The Giver of Stars' has a slow start, which might be a bit predictable and banal in the first half. However, they find that the second half of the book more than makes up for it. The strong female characters and their journeys are particularly praised, making the book a rewarding read despite its initial shortcomings. The reviewer suggests that readers who stick with it will be pleased with the emotional and narrative payoff.

Quick quotes

    predictable and banal in the first half

    the second half more than makes up for it

    the strong female characters and their journeys are particularly praised

Novel Notions · 2019-12-22
heartwarming 4.00

The book is beautiful, funny, and moving, with strong female friendships at its core. The reviewer appreciates the emotional depth and strength of the characters.

This review highlights the beauty and emotional depth of 'The Giver of Stars'. The reviewer finds the book to be funny and moving, with a strong emphasis on the friendships between the female characters. They appreciate the strength and resilience shown by the characters, making it a compelling and heartwarming read. The reviewer also notes the emotional storyline that evokes real-life feelings, making it a memorable and impactful book.

Quick quotes

    beautiful and funny and moving

    contained some amazing female friendships and lots of strength

    an emotional storyline that evokes real-life feelings

Goodreads · 2019-10-03
enthralling 4.50

The book is praised for its emotional depth and engaging storytelling, making it a potential modern classic. It highlights themes of women's friendship and true love.

This review highlights how 'The Giver of Stars' is a richly rewarding novel that balances humor and heartbreak. The reviewer appreciates the strong female friendships and the emotional journey the characters undertake. They believe it's a story that will resonate deeply with readers, making it a book that could become a modern classic. The reviewer also notes the enthralling nature of the narrative, which keeps readers engaged throughout.

Quick quotes

    Funny, heartbreaking, enthralling, it is destined to become a modern classic

    a richly rewarding novel of women's friendship, of true love

    it captures the spirit of resilience and hope

Appears in Lists