The Librarian of Basra

The Librarian of Basra

Written and Illustrated by Jeanette Winter

Published by Harcourt, Inc. 

©2005

32 pages

Genre is Historical Fiction

The Librarian of Basra was a great read! The unique cover for the book is what really had me interested in the book itself. Since this book is historical fiction, it is based on a true event. The book centers around a librarian in Basra, Iraq. She wants to save the books in the library from the rumors of an invasion that is supposed to occur.  She recruits help from other people as well to try and save the books!

The illustrations for this book were done with acrylic and pen on arches watercolor paper. The story could still be understood without the illustrations but it might not appeal to children as much. The illustrations help to add to the war that's going on and it helps to add to the beauty this librarian sees in books. The illustrations really add to the true beauty and truth of this book. 

This book is appropriate for lower level grades the way it is written. However, it is a great book for all ages in what you can learn from the book! You can learn to have a love of literature and about the war that occurred over in Iraq. This book can be used in the classroom in a multitude of ways. The book can be used to show what lengths some people will go to for great literature. The book could be used in reference to history as well! The teacher could read the book to open the lesson on social studies and discussing wars.