Diary of a Tuscan Bookshop

The pseudonymous Donati recounts in this agreeable outing the story of her 2021 move from Florence back to her tiny hometown of Lucignana (population 180) to open the mountain village’s first bookshop. “The idea must have been lying in wait, ensconced in the folds of that dark and joyous country we call childhood,” she writes of her decision. Lacking the funds to pursue the project, Donati turned to crowdfunding, and, to her surprise and delight, donations came pouring in. Soon her project became a genuine sensation, drawing bibliophiles from all over Italy to seek out her robust rare book collection. Using diary entries that begin in January and run through March, Donati writes in real time about Covid and the pandemic’s effects on her business. She also includes snippets of local history, musings on village life, and tips for aspiring booksellers (“Never fancy yourself better than your readers”). Donati’s anecdotes and book recommendations are undoubtedly delightful, but the memoir aspect lacks focus. Still, bookworms will find plenty to enjoy in this charming if diffuse time capsule. Agent: Jessica Purdue, Orion Books. (May)