Set in Depression-era America, a breathtaking story of five extraordinary women and their remarkable journey through the mountains of Kentucky and beyond, from the author of Me Before You and The Peacock Emporium.

In the midst of the Great Depression, five extraordinary women defy societal norms and discover the power of friendship and courage while serving as part of a traveling library in rural Kentucky. Led by the fiercely independent Alice Wright, they embark on a journey that challenges their own beliefs and defies the expectations of men as they deliver books to the underserved mountain communities. As they face hardships and confront personal issues, these women forge unbreakable bonds, proving that love, sacrifice, and knowledge can change lives forever. Through their struggles, they create not just a library, but a legacy of hope and inspiration for generations to come.

Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, "The Giver of Stars" introduces us to Alice Wright, a young Englishwoman who marries a man from Kentucky, hoping to escape her mundane life in England. However, her dreams are quickly crushed when she arrives in her new home, where her husband, Bennett, is domineering, and the isolation of the rural mountain community weighs heavily on her. Alice finds herself stifled in her marriage and feels like a prisoner in her own home, and her desperation mounts as she longs for purpose and connection.

The story unfolds as Alice learns about the Pack Horse Library project initiated by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). This project sends women on horseback to deliver books to remote communities in the Appalachian region. Driven by a desire to break free and to empower herself, Alice decides to join the group. The library's mission resonates with her, igniting a passionate fire within; she craves both knowledge and a sense of belonging.

At the library, Alice meets a diverse group of women who become her closest allies and friends. There is the tough and fiery Margery, a local who stands up against societal norms; the timid but intelligent Sofia, who is fighting her own demons; and the independent and strong-willed Beth, who supports the library's mission despite the challenges posed by the town's entrenched beliefs about women. Together, they embark on their trailblazing journey, bringing not just books, but hope and education to the mountain residents.

As they travel through the rugged landscape, facing dangers from the terrain and hostility from some community members, they form a deep camaraderie. Alice learns about strength and resilience through her friends' experiences, including their battles with personal loss and societal constraints. The women also confront the realities of their world; their necessity to overcome not only logistical challenges in delivering books but also the prejudices and dangers they encounter from townsfolk unkind to their unconventional project.

Their efforts are complicated by Alice's tumultuous marriage to Bennett, who becomes increasingly controlling and abusive as the story progresses. He's deeply uncomfortable with the growing independence and strength Alice displays as she becomes more enmeshed in the librarian community and entrusts her dreams to her friends. Eventually, after Bennett's violent reaction to her desires, Alice realizes she can no longer tolerate his control and decides to break free from her marriage, a courageous choice that signifies her newfound independence.

Despite the many obstacles they face, including fierce competition from a rival librarian and the disapproval from male authority figures in their town, the women continue their quest, demonstrating the transformative power of literature. Books become a lighthouse in their dark times, encouraging the community to uplift one another. As they navigate personal tragedies, including love, loss, and sacrifice, they learn to rely on each other and champion the cause of literacy and empowerment.

The climax sees Alice take a stand not just for her aspirations but for her friends, creating a significant impact in the communities they serve. In confronting her past and challenging societal limitations, she shines as a beacon of resilience. Ultimately, their collective efforts influence the lives of many in their region, creating a legacy of countless readers and a deep appreciation for the freedom knowledge provides.

By the end, the women have not only changed the course of their lives but also of the people they interacted with through the library. "The Giver of Stars" powerfully illustrates how the bonds of friendship, courage, and the pursuit of knowledge can leave an indelible mark on the world, changing lives for generations. It is a celebration of women’s strength in the face of adversity and the transformative power of the written word.

The Giver of Stars is a powerful exploration of female friendship, the importance of education, and the fight for women's rights. Jojo Moyes skillfully weaves historical fact with fiction, bringing to life the little-known story of the Packhorse Librarians of Kentucky.

The novel challenges societal norms of the 1930s, particularly regarding women's roles and racial segregation. Through diverse characters, Moyes examines different forms of oppression and the courage it takes to stand against them.

The book also serves as a love letter to literature, demonstrating how books can educate, inspire, and connect people across social divides. The act of delivering books becomes a metaphor for delivering freedom and opportunity.

Moyes' writing style is engaging and accessible, balancing serious themes with moments of humor and romance. The vivid descriptions of the Appalachian landscape add depth to the narrative, almost becoming a character in itself.

Ultimately, The Giver of Stars is a celebration of resilience, the power of female solidarity, and the enduring impact of books on individual lives and entire communities.