Monday, September 22, 2025

Book Review: Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books, Kirsten Miller (2024)


Kirsten Miller's Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books is a triumphant, hilarious, and deeply moving satire that brilliantly tackles the timely and important issue of book banning. Miller has a rare talent for taking a serious subject and infusing it with humor and heart, making for a truly unforgettable reading experience.

The story revolves around a cast of eccentric and endearing characters in the small Southern town of Troy, Georgia, all of whom become unexpectedly intertwined through a secret act of rebellion. What begins as a petty feud between two women—the meddlesome Lula Dean and the ever-so-clever Beverly Underwood—quickly evolves into a powerful testament to the transformative power of books. As banned titles secretly make their way into Lula’s "little free library," readers get to witness, chapter by chapter, how these stories impact the lives of everyone in town.

Beyond the clever plot, the novel shines in its ability to create fully realized, nuanced characters. From a high school football star grappling with his identity to a woman discovering a hidden part of her family's history, each person who interacts with the library finds a piece of themselves within its pages. While the book doesn't shy away from serious topics like racism, homophobia, and censorship, it handles them with a sense of hope and wit that leaves you feeling uplifted and inspired.

This is more than just a funny book; it's a rallying cry for the importance of reading, the freedom of ideas, and the belief that a single book can change a life. It's a reminder that community can be a powerful force for good when people are willing to open their minds and their hearts. A must-read for anyone who has ever found solace, strength, or a new perspective within the pages of a book.

Carolina Dean 
12th House Books

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