Reviews

The Bookshop Girl by Sylvia Bishop

ljrinaldi's review against another edition

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4.0

Property can't read, not because she is stupid, but because she was never taught. Like many people who can't read, she has learned to make it look as though she can read, but either choses not to, or pretends she can.

And she works in a bookshop with her adopted mother and brother. (She was found in the bookshop when she was five).

What I enjoyed about this book is, the premise is set up, that Property can't read, but is very observant, and from there, the story roars around at a wickedly fast rate. The Joneses win a new, larger bookshop in a contest, move to London to take it over, and then learn that someone else has claims to it.

And they must solve this mystery.

And the floors of the bookshop move in and out, depending on what is needed, like a mutli-level lazy susan.

I like that the story moves quickly, that Property has to do what needs to be done, and all in all, because of her keen observation skills, wins the day, in a very funny way.

As another reviewer said, this story is bonkes, but that is ok. It is fun bonkers. And once you get past the fact that her mother should have taught her how to read, or sent her to school, or something, a good time will be had by all.

Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.

sngick's review against another edition

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5.0

Delightful story with quirky characters and a bookshop of my dreams!

yapha's review against another edition

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3.0

Very, very British. Recommended for grades 2 & up.

rebeccawantstoreadmore's review

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funny lighthearted fast-paced

3.0

kslhersam's review against another edition

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3.0

I read this with Jane, my 9 year old. We both thought it was just okay. It wasn't super exciting or interesting, but it did have a few nice plotlines.

ssione55's review against another edition

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3.0

Cute story, about an adopted girl who uses her skills to solve a mystery and save her family. Definitely young middle grade, so it was less enjoyable as an adult, but still a nice quick read.

mitastouch's review against another edition

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4.0

If you like Me. lemoncellos Library you will love The Bookshop Girl. Very cute, heartwarming read with a bit of a twist. Hooks you right in with lovable characters.

butterbreadbooks's review

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adventurous funny inspiring lighthearted relaxing medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

This is a great book-lover story. 

ros_lanta's review

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adventurous hopeful lighthearted mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

This is such a fun, cute read, from beginning to end. There were numerous times where it made me laugh or smile. 

It's definitely at the youngest end of middle grade (it was on the 7 to 9 shelves in my local bookshop) with big text and plenty of illustrations. 

I've seen the plot described as "bonkers" and I found that very apt! Nothing about the plot really makes sense, but I didn't really care. I loved the writing and it felt magical (it isn't full on sci-fi or fantasy but there's a hint of it).  

Also, there's a surly kitten in the book. Who doesn't love grumpy animal companions in kids books? 

jupiter2ff65's review

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3.0

An adorable read with a fun characters. As an adult I had to set aside a lot of disbelief about the events, but I think kids would really enjoy it as it's very imaginative.