The Christmas Bookshop by Jenny Colgin is a story of a young person, Carmen struggling to find her way in the midst of all that is good around Christmas. The story takes place in Scotland, which adds to the atmosphere of the novel, but could really take place anywhere. The novel highlights friendship, family, love and hope in the season of giving.
Carmen is the main character who is struggling. Her job that she had for years ended when the store closed. She moved back in with her parents feeling like a loser. Her mother convinces her to go live with her sister Sofia and her family while she works for one of Sophia’s clients, Mr. McCredie.
Mr McCredie owns a bookstore, one that is barely making enough money in Edinburgh. Mostly what he does is talk about old books and hasn’t really done anything to spruce up the place for a gazillion years. Carmen slowly worms her way into cleaning up the bookstore and making it more friendly.
As one part of her life seems to have positive outcomes, she still struggles with finding her way with her family and maybe even a new “friend”. It’s the Christmas season and all is jolly around her. Carmen might find her jolly self after all. The Christmas Bookstore by Jenny Colgin is a wonderful read that reminds us what is really important.
