Library Girl

Library Girl – A Whimsical and Heartfelt Middle Grade Novel About Books, Belonging, and Finding Family

From Newbery Honor author Polly Horvath comes Library Girl, a touching and quirky middle grade novel about a girl raised in a public library who steps out into the world—and discovers that real life isn’t always like the stories on the shelves.

For eleven years, Essie has secretly lived in the library where she was found as a baby, lovingly raised by the four librarians who discovered her. Surrounded by stories and cared for by her unconventional family, Essie’s life has been one of quiet happiness. But now, she's craving something more—freedom, friendship, and answers about where she came from.

When Essie ventures out to the mall alone for the first time, she meets G.E., a boy who looks so much like her it feels like fate. Could he be her twin? Was he raised in a department store, just like she was raised in a library? As their friendship grows, Essie begins to unravel mysteries about her past, and learns that not every story has a tidy ending—but sometimes, the truth can lead to something even better.

Filled with warmth, humor, and literary magic, Library Girl is a love letter to books and libraries, and a moving story about finding your identity, your people, and your place in the world.