Syria's Secret Library

Wow. I requested our library purchase this book after reading a NYTimes article about it, and I am even happier after finishing that they bought it.

This is a story about the people, living in a complete war zone, who founded a secret library as a way to bring their community together and further education. It is a detailed account of their lives along the timeline of the Syrian Civil War—by the end of it, you almost feel that you know Omar, Anas, Abdul Basit, Sara, Amjad, and friends. Parts of this book were very hard to get through, and, at times, you can really feel the despair they felt. Their efforts are absolutely heroic, and I hope they are celebrated some day in their home.

I recommend this book to anyone who does not know about the Syrian Civil War, those who do know, those who like to read inspirational novels, and people like me who are international affairs nerds + library lovers. What a powerful read.