Everything in Its Place: A Story of Books and Belonging by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
As a lifelong book lover, the title Everything in Its Place: A Story of Books and Belonging by Lynda Mullaly Hunt immediately caught my attention. I stumbled upon it through the Notable Children’s Books Committee of the ALA, which recognizes it as a notable book for 2024, alongside accolades like the Ezra Jack Keats Award Honor and a spot on Kirkus Best Books of the Year list. What excited me most? The promise of a narrative centered around libraries, categories, and that ineffable sense of belonging—elements that evoke nostalgia for my own childhood visits to the library and the thrill of exploring card catalogs.
Nicky, our protagonist, embodies that blissful connection with books. From the way she hugs them to how she immerses herself in their worlds, it’s evident that her love for reading offers her solace and escape. However, there’s a poignant twist; Nicky struggles with the absence of Mrs. Gillam, her guiding light. What do you do when your anchor is suddenly missing? This question felt intimately relatable, reminding me of times when life felt chaotic and I sought the familiar comfort of stories.
In her journey, Nicky encounters an all-female biker group, a surprising twist that brings forth the book’s central theme: the quest for belonging and shared passions. It’s through these encounters that we’re reminded that the pages of books do not merely hold stories—they foster connections with others who share our love for the written word. By the end, Nicky finds a kindred spirit in a classmate who appreciates poetry, bringing the narrative full circle. It’s a beautiful reminder of the importance of both literature and personal connections; together, they create a richer tapestry of experience.
The writing style in Everything in Its Place flows with a gentle pace that perfectly mirrors Nicky’s emotional growth. Lynda Mullaly Hunt skillfully employs imagery that evokes the tactile joy of books, presenting the library as not just a physical space but an emotional sanctuary. My favorite moments are those where Nicky’s thoughts about the books she reads become a bridge to her reality, enriching her understanding of the world and herself. While Hunt’s narrative excels in emotional weight, I found myself wishing the illustrations could match the profundity of the text. While they certainly have their charm, I felt they fell short of enhancing the story’s core message as other picture books do.
Despite this minor critique, I found myself genuinely moved by Nicky’s journey, resulting in a solid four-star rating from me. This book serves as a reminder that while books themselves hold immense value, it’s the connections and meanings we derive from them that matter most.
Everything in Its Place is perfect for young readers and the adults who cherish them. It invites its audience to reflect on their relationships—not just with stories, but with each other. My reading experience left me with a warm sense of nostalgia and a renewed appreciation for the deep connections we can forge through literature. Whether you’re reliving your own library adventures or seeking to understand the joy of shared passions, this book is sure to resonate. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a touching exploration of books and belonging.
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