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Chapter 1
Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in The Last Bookshop in London, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
The Power of Books
Knowledge vs. Fear
Found Family
Bravery and Leadership
Summary
Analysis
Grace arrives at Mr. Evans’ bookshop, Primrose Hill Books, and sees that the dingy, unkempt shop is in far worse condition than she anticipated. After introducing herself to Mr. Evans, he shoos her away, telling her he has no need for an employee. Grace returns home and tells Mrs. Weatherford what happened, and the older woman declares that she’ll take matters into her own hands. In the meantime, Viv takes Grace out to explore. They visit Harrods, a fancy department store at which Viv has secured an interview for the position of shop assistant. At Hyde Park, the girls marvel at green grass and well-dressed people, but they’re shocked to see anti-aircraft guns and trenches dug into the ground. Later that day, Mrs. Weatherford reveals that Mr. Evans has agreed to hire Grace as an assistant. She also mentions that Primrose Hill is where Mr. Evans met his wife.
By coming to Grace’s rescue when Mr. Evans refuses to hire her, Mrs. Weatherford showcases an important aspect of her personality: she is always ready and determined to advocate for Grace. Similarly, by suggesting that they go out and explore London instead of staying home and worrying about not having a job, Viv demonstrates her dedication to being a good friend and supporting Grace. In this way, both Mrs. Weatherford and Viv establish themselves as important pillars of support for Grace as she embarks on this new and uncertain chapter of life, filling the supportive role one might expect a family member to fill.
Themes
