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Protectors of the Written Word

A love letter to all book lovers.

Protectors of the Written Word is a narrative non-fiction book telling the extraordinary stories of people - from all around the world - who have dedicated their lives to spreading the joys of reading. A much needed reminder of the goodness of humanity in our current times.

Pre-order now

25 fascinating stories of remarkable book lovers.

Some of the best examples of the goodness of humanity.

Mohammed Aziz

In the bursting alleys of the Rabat's old town in Morocco lies a bookshop like no other. Mohammed Aziz has been sitting here inspiring passing shoppers for over 70 years to pick up a book and immerse themselves in new knowledge, stories and wonder. But it turns out that his story is as fascinating as the tales he speaks about...

Antonio La Cava

There's a small village in Southern Italy called Ferrandina. That's where Maestro La Cava lives. He's a retired teacher who turned his van into something incredible: a mobile library. Everyday, he drives it up and down the hills of Ferrandina to bring the magic of books to kids in remote schools to ensure that their lives are full of wonder.

Aurora Pinto

Once a vibrant bookshop, Livraria Lello, a century-old bookshop, faced bankruptcy. That's when Aurora Pedro Pinto stepped in. With the help of her family, she restored the old bookshop and gave it new wings to help it thrive once more in today's age. Today, Livraria Lello attracts book lovers from all around the world is has been coined as the most beautiful bookshop in the world.

Francois Jousseaume

In the heart of Paris, tucked beneath the vaulted glass roof of Galerie Vivienne, stands a bookshop that has withstood revolutions, world wars, and the digital age. Librairie Jousseaume has been in François’s family for over 130 years, but now he stands alone, fighting to preserve a literary sanctuary in a city racing forward. Step inside the world of a man who has dedicated his life to keeping history alive—one book, one memory, one story at a time.

I received the most wonderful package today!

I opened it very slowly so I could enjoy every moment...! The book and every other item is exquisite and such a joy to handle. THANKYOU, THANKYOU for all the incredibly hard work you put into this project. You have outdone yourself. Oh - and seeing my name in print at the back was a real buzz!!

Jennifer W

Received my books this week.

They are absolutely lovely! So well packaged. The books are beautiful as are the bookmarks. They are Christmas gifts. I know they will be well loved.  THANK YOU!

Kristen

It's well above my expectation!

Awesome in its golden case! Thank you so much! Look forward to browsing through it, reading a bit here and there! Keep up the good work while I'll be waiting for your next project. 

Anna B

My book has arrived

It's an absolute treasure, looking forward to reading it.

Colette A

Landed in CT, USA

Looks great!

Dave R

Mine just arrived

Everything is so much more beautiful than I had imagined. Thank you so much!

Rachel

I got mine today!

It's beautiful! THANK YOU!!!

Ruth V

I just received mine in NYC!!

It’s such a beautiful book and so lovingly put together, THANK YOU!!

Cara G

I am impressed!

This is a gorgeous book binding and well chosen words on the pages. I am in awe! Thank you for such a treasure!

I got my book today.

WOW! It looks absolutely stunning, such a beautiful book. You've done some absolutely fantastic work here, and you should be massively proud of what you've achieved. Huge congratulations to everyone involved. I can't wait to see what you do next!

Ian H

We received the book. 

Absolutely LOVE it.Thank you for all your hard work P.S the book mark is beautiful

Debbie and Norman S

I got mine today!

The book is a masterpiece and I am sure plenty of comments will go into great detail of how amazing the book is, but one thing I want to make sure is not overlooked is the carpet-style bookmarks. What a delightful, intricately designed work of art. Great work all around.

Erik S

Watch Miriam Margolyes

AKA Professor Sprout in Harry Potter, praise the author and 1000 Libraries.

The oldest bookseller of Rabat, Morocco.

Discover the heartwarming story behind Mohammed Aziz, an orphan turned bookseller.

The 1000 Libraries mission.

To make books accessible to all children in the world, no matter their economic circumstances.