Wendy Mass and Rebecca Stead's The Lost Library invites readers into a whimsical yet heartfelt tale of mystery and adventure. Reviewers praise its engaging plot, well-drawn characters, and charming setting. However, some feel the story pacing is uneven. Overall, it’s a delightful read for middle-grade audiences that balances intrigue with warmth.

A reader who would enjoy The Lost Library by Wendy Mass and Rebecca Stead is likely a middle-grade student who loves adventure, mystery, and the magic of books. Fans of The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall or Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein will find this story appealing for its engaging plot and charming characters.

In The Lost Library by Wendy Mass and Rebecca Stead, fifth grader Evan discovers a mysterious little free library in Martinville, which contains books from the town’s former library destroyed in a fire two decades ago. As he explores the origins of these books with the help of a friend and an old cat named Mortimer, Evan learns about the enduring impact of literature and uncovers long-hidden secrets. Sensitive topics: death by fire, familial secrets.

Mysterious / Adventurous / Heartwarming / Humorous / Nostalgic

Wendy Mass

Rebecca Stead

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read The Lost Library | SuperSummary

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Overview

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The Lost Library Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Lost Library Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-15

The Lost Library Chapters 1-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-25

The Lost Library Chapters 16-25 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 26-43

The Lost Library Chapters 26-43 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Lost Library Character Analysis

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Themes

The Lost Library Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Lost Library Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Lost Library Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Lost Library Essay Topics

The Lost Library

Before You Read

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Review Roundup

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Book Details