My old workplace, The Academic Bookstore, was sold to the Swedish publishing House, Bonniers, 3-4 years ago. Nothing seems to have gone right since; they sold their best windows to Starbucks, they fired all the office staff - some of whom had worked there over 30 years -, they minimized the staff in the shop and they don't have a very good selection of books anymore. But today they surprised me by lounging a week-long charity scheme - anyone who brings in used books will get a book voucher for 5€. One bag or one item, 5€ it is. They also have their final sale, -60%, so you can actually get a book or even two with that voucher. And those donated books go to Hope organization to be given to families in need. No BC-books, I was told.
So this book was the one I got with my voucher. Tried the beginning in the shop and it felt promising. Read some more at home and decided this book could travel to the winner of my 9th Bookiversary RABCK. Tomorrow, as I am already a bit late sending this and the day after I will be flying to London Town for a few days.

Pic: Good old London.

I hadn't time to read this through, but it seemed an interesting story. This is the first of nine books mcsar won in my 9-year-bookiversary RABCK. I'd like them to vary some, so I try to pick books from different paths of life. Enjoy!

Thank you so much for this super generous RABCK. I feel so lucky to have won and I look forward to all the upcoming mail box surprises. This one looks promising indeed and I love the postcard and bookmark, both bearing the cutest kitty.

A charming coming-of-age novel set in post-War Italy. An evocative and beautifully written story I enjoyed.

Wishing you a wonderful Christmas! Happy reading.

I am so glad this book reached me since we at one point in time where worried it was lost in the post. It did take some time to travel my way but no harm for me, I think I was even more happy getting it today than I would have been before Christmas.