by Helene Hanff
First published 2007
In 1940s New York, bookworm Helene scribbles a letter to a quaint London bookshop. Gruff shopkeeper Frank replies, kicking off a two-decade correspondence. As their exchange blossoms from sarcastic barbs to mutual affection, Helene and Frank forge an unlikely friendship, sharing their dreams, frustrations, and kinship through the printed page. This charming epistolary tale celebrates the power of connection in an era of separation.
Genres: friendship, 20th-century, books-about-books
Vibes: charming, emotional, intimate
Tropes: epistolary, unlikely-friendship
Setting: London, New York, England, Great Britain
Period: 20th century
112 pages · Paperback · Penguin Books