The Bermondsey Bookshop

By: Mary Gibson

Narrated by: Anne Dover

'Happiness had never been something she'd looked for. A quiet day with no insults or wallops, that was the best she could imagine.'

Set in 1920s London, this is the inspiring story of Kate Goss' struggle against poverty, hunger and cruel family secrets.

Her mother died in a fall, her father has vanished without trace, and now her aunt and cousins treat her viciously. In a freezing, vermin-infested garret, factory girl Kate has only her own brave spirit and dreams of finding her father to keep her going. She has barely enough money to feed herself, or to pay the rent. The factory where she works begins to lay off people and it isn't long before she has fallen into the hands of the violent local money-lender. That is until an unexpected opportunity comes her way - a job cleaning a most unusual bookshop, where anyone, from factory workers to dockers, can learn to read and then buy books cheaply. A new world opens up, but with it come new dangers, too.

Based on the true story of the Bermondsey Bookshop, this is the most inspiring and gripping novel Mary Gibson has yet written.

©2020 Mary Gibson (P)2020 Head of Zeus

Captivating story, perfectly read

Fabulous! I couldn’t stop listening. Such a good book it kept me from work and other obligations. Excellent.

Great book very well written!

I enjoyed the book immensely and was sorry it ended! I hope Mary Gibson gives us another great book!

Lovely story

I loved this book. I listened to it on many short car trips and found it just right for that purpose. I want to learn more about Bermondsey.

Review

Excellent loved the story! Will recommend this definitely. Never lost interest very captivating all the way to the end.

The Long Way Round

A heroine that you know will come out on top. But dang she took the long way around. Lots of family drama. The 1920s was not an easy time and many children were forced to starve or work in factories. This is an interesting story that connects to a real historical place, the Bermondsey Bookshop. The main character fights for her life and stumbles upon a community of artists. Many twists and turns before her happy ending.

A glimpse into the past

Its not usually the books I go for but this was a wonderful tale. Full of so many emotions, drama, fear, excitement, sadness and love.

A mixed review

The plot was so predictable but it was an entertaining read. Lovable and endearing characters along side the creepy and villainous ones.

Plot twists left and right

definitely well written, the story draws you in and it is not that predictable, which I really appreciate.

Well narrated and engaging story

This is a great story with a focus on reality for the time period, love and moving on. The narrator did an excellent job with voices and keeping the story moving along

Great read

Wasn’t to sure what to expect with this book but it exceeded all my expectations!!
Great story line. Great narration. Good character development. Surprise ending. Highly recommend!