Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore (Book 33) in Book Challenge 2016 (52 books to be read in 52 weeks)

Mr Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan (288 pages) was something I’ve been meaning to read for a while now. I must admit to being slightly disappointed once I’d finished.

It’s the story of Clay, a 26 year old unemployed “nerd” living in San Francisco. He stumbles across a Help Wanted sign in a quiet book shop, and applies. Clay soon works nightshifts, the only people venturing in are ones using the library at the back of the shop. He is curious about the books they borrow, and why he has to write down each and every experience he has with them. His curiosity leads him on an adventure across the country, and to a secretive society.

Such an interesting premise. However, the characters feel shallow and underdeveloped. There’s little sense of adventure or excitement over the course of the story. It was a good stop gap read, for reading’s sake.

Date Read: 23 - 26 April 2016. Books Read So Far This Year: 33/52. Total Pages Read So Far This Year: 8054