The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes is a moving work of historical fiction set in Depression-era Kentucky, inspired by the real-life Packhorse Librarians of America. Known for her bestselling novel Me Before You, Moyes brings to life the extraordinary story of five remarkable women determined to change lives through the power of books. When Alice Wright, an Englishwoman newly married to a Kentucky native, finds herself trapped in a stifling small town and under the thumb of a domineering father-in-law, an unexpected opportunity offers her escape — joining Eleanor Roosevelt’s travelling library initiative.
At the heart of The Giver of Stars is the bond between Alice and Margery O’Hare, a fiercely independent woman who leads the library team with courage and defiance. Alongside three other determined women, they traverse rugged mountains on horseback, delivering books to isolated families who have never owned one. The novel weaves a rich tapestry of friendship, resilience, justice, and quiet rebellion against the constraints of 1930s America.
A Goodreads Choice Award nominee for Historical Fiction, The Giver of Stars is a beautifully told, heartfelt story that will resonate with readers who appreciate tales of strong women, historical detail, and the transformative power of books. It’s perfect for fans of Kristin Hannah and historical dramas rooted in true events.
