First of all, The Change by Kirsten Miller was one of my favorite books of last year and has characters that will forever live in my mind (I am dying for her to write a sequel just so I can be with the three main characters a little longer!)

So I went into this one with some high expectations obviously! And Kirsten Miller didn't disappoint (although The Change still sits above this one for me - it's just the best!). This is a book that at its core is about a small town, a busy body woman named Lula who loves to stir up trouble and uses her power to create a book ban at the local library, and the townsfolk who come together to fight the ban. But oh it's so much more than that. This book deals with a LOT of hot button issues that are relevant in our society today. But Miller does this in a way that you are not beat over the head by these issues, but rather introduced to characters throughout the town that you connect with and fall in love with - and also utterly disagree with too - that are directly impacted by these issues.

At first, I had to get into the groove of each chapter introducing me to a new character in the town and had to get my bearings to remind myself who they were as they would tie into each other's stories throughout the novel. But once I did - I could not stop reading! I was so invested in these characters, their relationships, their flaws, and the way they changed and learned throughout the novel.

Kirsten Miller is now an autobuy author for me and I will read anything and everything she writes!

Thank you to Netgalley for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.

This book's heart was in the right place but the execution makes it a "preaching to the choir" read more than anything that would sway readers on the opposing side. I say this as, like the author, I am a southern-reared liberal who emerged from a family with views radically different from my own. At the very beginning, I thought I could maybe recommend it to some of my right wing relatives, but as the book progressed I found it to be far too heavy-handed in the examples it gave of the baddies. I'm not saying I don't agree with what's said, but if the goal is to get misguided readers to see the errors of their ways, this book isn't it, sadly.

Aside from this critique, if you do want to read a book that holds up an example of a more just society that embraces EVERYONE being free to be who they want, it's a nice "good triumphs over evil" read for those who already value that type of world.

The story is an interesting one and was written in response to the increasing amount of book banning going on in the USA. Although I'd have to say its not just an American problem- it is worldwide. The wider premise of the book is to show that history is not what you may think it is - there's a famous quote about history always being written by the victors. The history in Troy, Georgia is of a very personal nature as very different people discover their shared history.

The book, on the whole, is an easy read even if the contents are quite astonishing at times. For example I was bewildered by why any of the books would be banned but then I'd read quite a lot of them.

The book is quite funny at times but it is sending a clear message of tolerance, understanding and being judgemental when you don't know the true facts. For that alone it should be applauded.

I loved so much of this book. I was primed too: The Change by Kirsten Miller was my favorite novel in 2022.

But wow did I hate the plot point of the arrest. Too often, I see Little Free Library stewards defacing books (i.e., stamping them) in an effort to police those taking books from their LFLs. The idea of someone *being arrested* for using a LFL was too much for me. (As was Miller needlessly killing a character.)

I also felt that, as written, Lula's heart wasn't really in this campaign for banning books. She wanted attention and this was a way to get it. I understand that this is fiction but in a world in which people are actually, forcefully pushing to ban books, this portrayal felt unrealistic.

To be sure, Miller's writing is still for me, and Wilma was a delight. But the plot of Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books just wasn't for me personally. I imagine this book will work better for many others (especially those who have given the actions of LFL stewards and book ban supporters much less thought than I have). 3.5 rounded up

I'm glad I read the description of this book before starting so I knew it was supposed to be satire. Otherwise, it might gave seemed a bit unrealistic and over-the-top. I *loved* that this book was basically a love story to books, libraries, and librarians! I *loved* how it was described how each book changed a different character's life. It was at times serious and at times amusing. There were maybe a few too many characters, but overall a fantastic read! If only all the book banners would read it and maybe finally understand why books are so important...

Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books is unfortunately incredibly relevant. As someone who just had to explain to my friend visiting why the book banning has become so dangerous and prevalent in the US, Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books is timely. But we don't want it to be. It's a story which stands up for and celebrates the power of books. For books to help us give us courage, a needing respite, information that is denied to us.

I started recommending this book after reading the first chapter. Definitely my favorite book of the year. Had me gasping and guffawing, but Miller keeps the fine balance between heart-wrenching and lighthearted just right, as she shows the transformative power of books, and both the personal and community levels.

Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books follows a variety of characters in a small southern town after a group of people ban books from their local library. I don't typically love keeping track of several characters, but Kirsten Miller somehow managed to make me care about characters in just one chapter each in the beginning. By the time they all start to weave together, I had a list and enjoyed making the connections. I've lived in the South my entire life, and unfortunately some of the antagonists appear all too familiar. I've lived the moment with the parents watching the news. To remain closed-minded is to deprive ourselves of our humanity.

Chock-full of humor and characters to root for, Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books is entertaining from start to finish.

I received an ARC from William Morrow via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Beverly Underwood and her arch-enemy, Lula Dean, reside in the tiny town of Troy, Georgia, where their long-standing rivalry takes a dramatic turn. Beverly, now a member of the school board, finds herself at odds with Lula, who has become a local celebrity by spearheading a campaign to purge the public libraries of "inappropriate" books—none of which she’s actually read. In an effort to replace the books she deems "pornographic," Lula starts her own lending library in front of her home, filled with literature she considers worthy. However, Beverly’s daughter, Lindsay, has other plans. By night, she secretly fills Lula’s little free library with banned books disguised with “wholesome” dust jackets, leading to unexpected and transformative consequences for the townspeople.

Kristen Miller’s newest release is an emotional and gripping novel that dives deep into the impact of censorship and the power of literature. Set against the backdrop of Troy, Georgia, the story is both a heartfelt exploration of personal freedom and a fierce defense of the written word.

The narrative brilliantly unfolds as each chapter reveals the journey of a different banned book into the hands of unsuspecting readers. These disguised books begin to change the lives of Lula’s neighbors in profound ways, from the local postman to the prom queen, housewives, a young football star, and the former DA. As these characters delve into the forbidden texts, they experience personal growth and newfound perspectives, highlighting the transformative power of literature.

Lindsay’s nightly escapades turn Lula’s seemingly harmless library into a clandestine beacon of rebellion and enlightenment. This small act of defiance sparks a larger movement within the town, culminating in a dramatic showdown between Beverly and Lula as they both run for mayor. The stakes are high, and the resolution is both satisfying and thought-provoking, illustrating the profound impact that access to knowledge can have on a community.

Miller’s writing is engaging and her pacing is steady, ensuring that readers remain hooked from start to finish. The blend of humor, drama, and heartfelt moments provides a well-rounded reading experience that resonates on multiple levels. The characters are richly developed, with Beverly and Lula’s rivalry serving as a powerful catalyst for the story’s events.

I was deeply moved by this book and found it nearly impossible to put down. Kristen Miller’s ability to take a small-town setting and expand it into a universal message about the importance of literature and freedom of access is masterful. "Luna Dean's Little Library of Banned Books" reaffirms the belief that restricting access to books is an affront to personal freedom and growth. This novel is a testament to the enduring power of the written word to expand minds, hearts, and entire communities.

Kristen Miller has crafted a story that is both timely and timeless, with characters and a message that will stay with you long after the final page is turned. This book is a must-read for anyone who cherishes the freedom to read and the transformative power of literature.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book.

One of my favorite reads this year! I loved how the author connected all of the town people’s stories and the different POVs in some chapters.

What an unexpected delight of a book! The author sauntered across a tightrope where a misstep would fall into farce or preaching. When Lula Dean dove onto banning books as her cause, she was hoping to finally get the respect she felt she deserved. Then someone replaced all the books in her wholesome little library with the titles she had pulled off the library shelves. Only they left her sanctified covers on the banned books. As residents borrowed books, they. often found the hidden titles eye opening in unexpected ways. Yes many of the characters were stereotypical Southerners, but therein lies the humor and ultimately humanity.

Lula Dean advocates for a whole bunch of books to be banned and over many objections, she wins and not only gets all sorts of books removed from local libraries and schools but she also puts up a little Free Library with all her "acceptable books" inside. One mysterious hero sneaks into the Little Free Library and replaces all of the books with the banned books by exchanging the dust covers so it appears that the town citizens are taking books that are approved but they're not. And they read the books anyway. The beautiful mayhem that takes place is addicting, sometimes disheartening, sometimes extremely satisfying. Told from different perspectives of different townspeople, this book was just. so. good.

#arc
#netgalley
#luladeanslittlelibraryofbannedbooks

LULA DEAN'S LITTLE LIBRARY OF BANNED BOOKS by Kirsten Miller is meant to be a comedy. The story is set in small town Georgia with a plethora of stereotypical characters, including Lula Dean, a fanatic who wants to ban books like Maus, Are you There, God? It's me, Maragaret, Nickel and Dimed, The Diary of Anne Frank, Speak, and Beloved. Almost all of those are actually taught in our curriculum. So, while it may be difficult to understand the reasoning behind these book challenges, Miller soaks her readers in misogynist, racist, and Nazi views. It's depressing, not funny even though this satire was a LibraryReads selection for June. Lula Dean is craving attention and power when she decides to run for mayor against Beverly Wainwright Underwood, the local school board chair and mother of Lindsay, a gay college freshman. While briefly home, Lindsay uses dust covers from books in Lula Dean's little lending library to camouflage several banned texts. Miller is clever in the pairings (e.g., The Art of the Deal dust cover hides Maus) and in the townspeople's transformations resulting from reading these hidden books. However, the text is difficult to wade through even though Miller may have good intentions in highlighting how "keeping people scared and ignorant is an effective means of controlling them." Pick up a banned book instead! 2.5 stars

Given the current political climate in this country, I thought this book sounded like it could give some comic relief to the situation, and was very much looking forward to reading it. It sounded like it was going to address important social issues that challenge our society today. However, I was a little disappointed. While I realize this could be categorized as a "modern fairly tale", I found it a little unrealistic that anyone who needed some help or understanding conveniently picked a random book from Lula's library, with false dust jackets,and it was just the one they needed. The first few chapters seemed like a series of short stories strung together into a "novel" as an after thought. I appreciate this book exposing the dark side of the conservative, christofacist, white supremacist movement that is terrorizing the US of late. While they deserve to be called out, and their bigoted imperiousness to be challenged, this wasn't the book to do it. I think the author was trying to over too many topics, and right too many wrongs. I found the characters lacking in depth, stereotypical, and bordering on the cartoonish, and the book not particularly funny. Having said that, I will admit that my sense of humor is not for everyone. I found the warm fuzzy ending unrealistic given the entrenched divide we have in this country. I would not discourage anyone from reading this book if they find the concept interesting. It does have a great underlying message- Books Can Change Lives. People should be able to read whatever books feed their soul. Thanks Net Galley for this ARC opportunity.

What a delightful take on book banning! Set in a small Southern town which has decided to ban “pornographic” materials, one citizen takes it into her own hands to switch out the “good” literature in the lead banner’s little library with the banned books. Chaos ensues, but good chaos. What follows is a story of a town whose citizens start to learn the truth about their heritage, their lives, and themselves, with the literature that they end up picking from the little library. The chapters are told in vignettes from the people whose eyes are opened to the books that they pick out from the little library, and you get to see how these books help them grow and change. I liked how book banning was tackled, and I thought that the author did a good job of highlighting some of the common arguments for censorship and book banning in here, while also providing a solid defense against censorship. I thought that some of the conversations were pretty didactic, but they would be useful to a reader who hasn’t encountered book banning arguments before. I loved the reveal at the end, and overall, I thought this book was well-done.

Told as a series of interconnected stories that make up a larger narrative, Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books is about what happens when one small Georgia town goes to battle over banned books. This is not a subtle story: It's a humorous but bracing and unapologetic exploration of many topics at the forefront of America's current culture wars.

I would like to say that this book is over-the-top, but unfortunately my own small Midwestern town recently elected a school board that would have been Lula Dean's BFFs. They started with banning books and pride flags and railing against CRT -- which was actually not even being taught in classrooms. Now they are coming for social-emotional learning and undermining teachers' choices at every turn. And they sadly have plenty of support from the community, a group of individuals that might as well call themselves the Concerned Parents Committee. So I assure you, the events outlined in this book may be exaggerated for narrative effect, but things like this are happening -- not just in my own town, but around the country.

That was my mindset in reading Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books, so it (unfortunately) really resonated with me. There are several characters I wish I would've gotten to know better, and there are places where it is a bit too heavy-handed, but overall this book is a relevant and necessary battle-cry. It's a reminder that, historically, the book-banners have never been the good guys; that fake media and fear-mongering are insidious diseases; and that censorship actually goes against everything it means to be an American, no matter how anyone tries to spin it. And, of course, it reads like a love story to the power of books: how they can empower and connect us, no matter how different we are.

Thank you to William Morrow for the early reading opportunity.

Absolutely loved this! If you’re on the side of “banned books” keep people oppressed, then this book is certainly for you.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Lula Dean is the leader of the committee who removes “bad” books like Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret and Diary of Anne Frank from the school and public libraries in Troy, Georgia. When she provides a Little Free Library of books she encourages people to read instead, things go awry & the go awry quickly. I found myself cheering for the townsfolk as they took down the long-standing beliefs the town held on to. The characters felt alive on the page. But warning: you’ll likely *know* someone who acts or thinks just like Lula Dean.

Lula Dean is a satirical look at a small Southern town at a crossroads.

Lula Dean is on a mission. She’s going to remove “bad” books from the library, keep good ole southern values (including support for confederate history) in tact and call out anyone who veers from her worldview. Well, Lula Dean, hang on to your bonnet because the more progressive townspeople aren’t going to let that happen without a fight!

So many thoughts! Obviously this is throwing every political controversy into a blender and churning it up in the microcosm of this small town. As a fairly progressive person the narrative was pretty satisfying if not maybe oversimplified but overall I was really entertained. As a book lover and someone who is vehemently opposed to book banning it was nice to see a story that shows how harmful banning can be and how important books are- to educate, to comfort, to help people desperate to see someone like themselves. There are quite a few characters to keep track of but the way they converged together was smart and I loved the way the author set up each chapter based on a book that influenced each character. Recommend for those that won’t be offended by social commentary and love books.

Oh goodness! If ever there was a book that will raise your spirits and make you feel better about the state of the world, Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books by Kirsten Miller is it. This book came out Tuesday, but I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC through Net Galley. The story takes place in the small town of Troy, Georgia which is much like you would expect a small town to be, complete with a statue of a 150 year old Confederate General, by the name of Augustus Wainwright. There are a lot of the typical small town people and goings on, but there are also, book banners, Nazis, homosexuals and well, some really good people. Lula Dean has been holding a grudge since high school. Her husband is dead, her children have fled the nest and she is ready for revenge. She forms a committee to remove books from school libraries and is ready to burn them when they are rescued by Beverly Underwood (nee’ Wainwright) a local school board member and arch nemesis of Lula Dean. What happens next is a roller coaster ride of books placed in different covers, a DNA test, a book of obscene cakes, a 30 year old crime brought to light, and a postman who knows a lot more than people think. I promise, you will laugh out loud, get angry and sit right on the edge of your seat, but you will not be able to put it down.

I thoroughly enjoyed every word of this serious, yet hilarious, story of a small town bigot bested by her own little free library, Lula Dean loved taking things away from others, especially those whom she viewed to be different than she. Her latest act in her crusade to keep her small town exactly the way it was is to cleanse the public library of all books she personally viewed as dangerous and likely to corrupt the morals of the town's impressionable youth (though she had read none of these books herself, of course). And, in her desire to provide the town with more appropriate literature, such as "The Art of the Deal," "Chicken Soup for the Soul," and "The Southern Belle's Guide to Etiquette" Lula fills a Little Free Library in her front yard with, in her view, the wholesome books the townspeople should be reading. After a prank leads to the swapping out of Lula's approved books for titles that were banned from the public library, books such as "The Diary of Anne Frank," "Beloved," and "Are You There God? it's Me, Margaret" start to make their way into the hands of residents whose lives are changed forever. Though some in the town continue to cling to their prejudices and fears, a subtle shift toward acceptance and love begins.

"Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books" was absolutely delightful from start to finish. I was thoroughly enchanted. Though laugh out loud funny at points, this book deals with some serious subjects such as racism, sexism, and rape. Above all, it is an ode to the magic of books and a testament to their power to change not only the lives of individuals, but the fate of an entire community when they are accessible to all. This is a book that real life book banners do not want to be written or read.

Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the privilege of reading an advanced copy of this utterly captivating read!