THE DOOR-TO-DOOR BOOKSTORE by Carsten Henn

The Door-to-Door Bookstore is a charming book by German author Carsten Henn, and has now been translated into English.

This is the story of Carl, an employee of a local bookstore in Germany whose role is to hand deliver orders to customer homes. An elderly man, he has long been friends with the former owner Gustav, whose daughter Sabine has taken over her father’s store but without the passion for books Gustav and Carl had.

On Carl’s walks, he is unexpectedly joined by nine-year-old Schascha, whose effervescence and wonder at the world quickly enchants Carl, as he delivers books to his regular customer.

As Carl’s job at the bookstore increasingly comes under threat, the friendship between Carl, Schascha and his customers - known as Mr Darcy, Effi, Mrs Longstocking, the Reader, Doctor Faustus and Hercules - becomes a matter of living and dying, and the role of books in our lives.

The Door-to-Door Bookstore is a sweet read - a beautiful demonstration of intergenerational friendship, the power of books and the community they create. The translation is excellent (thanks Melody Shaw!) and I can see why this novel has sold so well and become a favourite. At this time of the year (December), it makes for a great holiday read.

Book lovers will enjoy this too - it’s a sweet story. I think it could also be a great school text - there are many subplots and themes to explore and it is beautifully written.

Definitely one to recommend! Have you read this? I’d love to hear what you think!