The Uncommon Reader by Alan Bennett

This charming novella features the aging Queen of England and her growing attachment to books after a chance encounter with a mobile library. It's set in the modern day. There's a certain subtle pleasure of books about reading, isn't there? It's like it's reading to the second power. It's so short - only 120 small pages - that I don't want to give away too much of the plot.

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I found this book sweet, but not too sweet. The Queen reflects on her reading, but the book doesn't bog down with specific authors. She becomes more aware of the feelings of others, without being codependent. It's short without being shallow or rushed, thoughtful without trying too hard. Bennett walks a number of fine lines with ease. Definitely a nice way to pass the afternoon. Four stars. I look forward to sampling more of Bennett's work - I think Writing Home will be my next choice.

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