The Last Bookshop in London

by Madeline Martin

“Reading is...” His brows knit together and then his forehead smoothed as the right words appeared to dawn on him. “It’s going somewhere without ever taking a train or ship, an unveiling of new, incredible worlds. It’s living a life you weren’t born into and a chance to see everything colored by someone else’s perspective. It’s learning without having to face consequences of failures, and how best to succeed.” He hesitated. “I think within all of us, there is a void, a gap waiting to be filled by something. For me, that something is books and all their proffered experiences.”

War was not meant for tender souls.

There was power to Churchill’s voice as he spoke that made determination pound in Grace’s chest and brought tears to Mrs. Weatherford’s eyes as she nodded to the new prime minister’s message. Yes, there had been a great defeat, but they would carry on. The spirit of his words charged through London like lightning, crackling with power.

The spine, not yet stretched, creaked open, like an ancient door preparing to unveil a secret world.

She turned the pages to the first chapter, the sound a quiet whispered shush in the empty shop. There was a special scent to paper and ink, indescribable and unknown to anyone but a true reader. She brought the book to her face, closed her eyes and breathed in that wonderful smell.

Deeper still was the profound understanding for mankind as she lived in the minds of the characters. Over time, she had found such perspectives made her a more patient person, more accepting of others. If everyone had such an appreciation for their fellow man, perhaps things such as war would not exist.

“Books are what have brought us together. A love of the stories within, the adventures they take us on, their glorious distraction in a time of strife. And a reminder that we always have hope.”

“Even if we don’t have Primrose Hill Books...” Grace cradled Jane Eyre to her chest. “Remember that we will always have books, and therefore we will always have courage and optimism.”