The Bookish Life of Nina Hill

What makes it funny?

An unhappy customer wants her money back after finishing Pride and Prejudice. Nina recommends a library card and tries to keep her private outrage out of her customer-service smile. Her fellow bookseller Liz is more help with a sarcastic remark than with the customer.

The comedy at work

Waxman gives Nina an orderly routine and an unruly inner life. Comic schedules and sharp judgments show how much effort goes into staying composed. Even a potential romance runs into her suspicion that a man who knows sports trivia probably doesn’t read.

Try this if…

Readers in book groups recommend this as a light, funny escape, including alongside Mary Jane and The Rosie Project. It has particular appeal for readers who enjoy bookshop conversations, lists and a heroine who would like to schedule new relationships for a less busy week.

Good to know

Nina’s anxiety is explicit, and the family story begins with the death of a father she never knew. Expect some swearing and friction among the newly discovered relatives as well as the romantic comedy.