57 pages • 1 hour read
The Giver of Stars
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Book Brief
400
Novel • Fiction
Kentucky • 1930s
2019
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Set in Depression-era Kentucky, The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes follows Alice Wright, who relocates from England and joins the WPA Pack Horse Librarians, finding purpose and friendship despite facing community resistance and a failing marriage. Themes include misogyny, friendship, corporate greed, and inequality, woven through the lives of women delivering books on horseback in the Appalachian Mountains. Instances of domestic abuse, misogyny, and racism appear in the book.
Adventurous
Inspirational
Romantic
Emotional
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
543,777 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes captivates readers with its rich historical setting and strong, well-drawn female characters. The novel excels in depicting the camaraderie and resilience of women during the Depression era. However, some critiques point to predictable plot developments and occasional modern dialogue that can disrupt the period atmosphere.
Who Should Read The Giver of Stars?
The reader who would enjoy The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes is one who appreciates historical fiction with strong female protagonists, intricate friendships, and a rural American setting. Similar readers may also enjoy The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson.
543,777 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Bennett Van Cleve
Bennett Van Cleve
Originally charming, he becomes a passive husband who is obedient to his domineering father and struggles with the constraints of his societal role.
Mr. Geoffrey Van Cleve
Mr. Geoffrey Van Cleve
An influential yet domineering businessman in the town, he uses unethical means to control and manipulate those around him, including his son and daughter-in-law.
Margery O’Hare
Margery O’Hare
A fiercely independent and resilient woman from a notorious family, who stands up to societal pressures and is an inspiration for the packhorse librarians.
Beth Pinker
Beth Pinker
A resourceful and unconventional young woman who works for the Pack Horse Library, demonstrating independence through her secretive moonshine enterprise.
Izzy Brady
Izzy Brady
A shy girl who overcomes her initial reservations to become a passionate member of the Pack Horse Library, discovering the power of her singing voice.
Mrs. Brady
Mrs. Brady
A strong-willed woman who supports the library and her daughter Izzy, standing up to opposition in the community.
Fred Guisler
Fred Guisler
A quiet, supportive ally of the librarians who communicates with Alice through books and offers significant help to the library.
Sophia Kenworth
Sophia Kenworth
A dedicated and organized black librarian who maintains her composure in challenging social conditions and later moves to pursue further opportunities.
Kathleen Bligh
Kathleen Bligh
A resilient mountain woman who aids the library after receiving help from its members, playing a supportive role in the community.
400
Novel • Fiction
Kentucky • 1930s
2019
Adult
18+ years
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