I usually devour books that have anything to do with libraries, bookstores, and people who love books but I had a hard time getting into this book because Aaron is bitter and rude and generally not likable right from the start. I agree it is understandable considering the stress and grief that he is going through with poor business, the store falling apart, his father spending money he doesn't have (after declaring bankruptcy) and piles of debt, but it was difficult to sympathize with him at times. Be grateful when people try to help out, not rude! And stop telling them to shut up! That is what I wanted to yell at him. Not everyone is out to "Lucy you."
Every other character was better than Aaron, with the exception of Penny and a certain bouncer, and they were the reasons that I finished the book. I wanted a happy ending for Chad and Ira and Ike and the other guys that helped with trying to make the Bluebird Bookstore a better shop. I did like the ending and Aaron got a little better. He evolved a little, though could still work on his people skills.
My takeaway is that this book would be better without Aaron, and just be about figuring out how a community comes together to save a bookstore.
Every other character was better than Aaron, with the exception of Penny and a certain bouncer, and they were the reasons that I finished the book. I wanted a happy ending for Chad and Ira and Ike and the other guys that helped with trying to make the Bluebird Bookstore a better shop. I did like the ending and Aaron got a little better. He evolved a little, though could still work on his people skills.
My takeaway is that this book would be better without Aaron, and just be about figuring out how a community comes together to save a bookstore.