A giant book club is about to take over the North West – and you’re invited to join. The Great North West Read transforms the North West into one massive, interactive book club and this year’s chosen novel is The Library of Lost and Found by Phaedra Patrick.

The book will be available at local libraries throughout the region, including in e-book and audiobook formats. Taking inspiration from Phaedra’s own love of libraries, the story tells of volunteer librarian Martha Storm, who finds a mysterious book of fairy tales. Within its pages lies a surprising dedication that stirs up family secrets and sparks her own emotional journey of discovery.

In November, Phaedra will also visit libraries across the region to read from her book, sign copies, answer questions and share stories about her journey to becoming a best-selling author. Readers are also encouraged to get involved on social media using the hashtag #GNWR.

Phaedra said: “As a child, I used to visit my local library in Oldham and dream that one day my own book would sit on the shelves. The Library of Lost and Found celebrates the power of stories and I’m delighted it’s been selected as the 2019 Great North West Read.”

Manchester City Council’s Executive Member for Skills, Culture and Leisure, Councillor Luthfur Rahman, said: “Now it its second year, the Great North West Read’s goal is to be the North West’s largest community read and it is supported by public libraries across the region, including in Manchester.
“It is a wonderful opportunity to bring readers in the North West together through online and in-person book discussions.

The novel has received huge support from librarians, making it a fantastic choice to engage adult readers across the region.” GNWR is supported by the Time to Read North West Reader Development Network.