I’ve always appreciated libraries but after reading this book, I appreciate them even more. On April 29, 1986, the Central Library of Los Angeles burned down in a seven-hour blazing inferno that destroyed hundreds of thousands of books. An actor, Harry Peak, was arrested on suspicion of starting it. While the author navigates the many hours of investigating Harry, she gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the library’s history and leadership.

Sue, Breakwater Books, Guilford