Reviews

Wow, this book wrecked me in the best way possible. I think, to date, this is the best fiction book I have ever read with an Autistic character in it, especially one that has higher support needs. I cried so many times, in fact, I am starting to cry again just writing this review. It's a sad fact that too many books still vilify and act as if Autistic people are a burden, so, when I saw that a very important character was clearly Autistic, I braced myself for the burdening to begin. It never began.

The Bookbinder (American (and other?) title) is set during WWI/the Spanish Flu and is loosely connected to the author's previous book (which I also loved), [b:The Dictionary of Lost Words|49354511|The Dictionary of Lost Words|Pip Williams|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1576570225l/49354511._SY75_.jpg|74793187]. It is not a sequel, but the MC of that book is mentioned in this one, although she is not actually present in it. Pip Williams is not a fast paced action writer. She is a deliberate writer, and this book may be a little slow for some people's tastes, especially the first 20% or so. But, gosh, it is just so beautiful, and you absolutely fall in love with the characters, and feel their pain and their growth. Or, at least I did.

Peggy is a young woman who works in the Bindery, near Oxford. She has a twin sister, who is Autistic and communicates via echolalia (repeating phrases), who also works with her. The story is multilayered, combining elements of the War, with Peggy's own internal battles and fears about leaving her sister. Because her mother is dead, she feels that she is the only caretaker for Maude, but perhaps, it isn't Maude who is the one in need.

To me, the relationship and the understanding of Maude in particular is what just drew me into this. She's treated with love and respect by the people around her. They know she's different, but they accept it. Her mother would call her an illuminated book, and never thought she was less than anyone else. Peggy does feel some concerns, and there are traces of her feelings like her future is written because of Maude's needs, but in her journey, she realizes that perhaps some of that is just a way to hide behind her own fear. Maude is her own force to be reckoned with. She is a caretaker in her own way as well.

This is a beautiful, heartbreaking, soul wrenching book and I love it so much.

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