Ned Hayes Writing

A slight whimsical novel that encapsulates the important moments in the life of an over-educated curmudgeonly bookseller who unexpectedly meets the love of his life, a child to raise and complications that open up his hermetic island existence. 

A lovely book about a man who loves words and stories and the people who are part of his life. It's a little too heavy on the literary references -- but the storytelling itself has a light touch and is crafted in a way that foregrounds the beautifully limned characters and thoughtful plot twists. Reminds me in some ways of the careful crafting that goes into John Irving's books, but with a shorter path to the resolution. 

A great light but meaningful read for people who love bookstores and words. For readers who may not be familiar with the literary references, the book may feel a little ponderous.