It's lost in the mists of time how this book first came to me -- I think all booksellers are handed it when they start their career, or they should be. I love epistolary novels anyway, and this is the best and most classic of them all. Helene Hanff is such a strong and amazing character, and I envy those who have had the privilege of spending time with her. The book is a fascinating glimpse not only into old-school bookselling, but also into the times when getting stockings or ham through the post was an incredible thing. It's so touching how generous Helene is to the employees of Marks & Co. 84 Charing Cross Road is a book that can be read over and over, or dipped into to enjoy a particular letter, with Helene's brilliant sarcasm and exclamations of delight or dismay. I always cry watching the film and I blubbed again recently listening to our great audio edition. Anyone even remotely connected with books, or writing, or who is an Ameriphile or Anglophile, or anyone who wants to be moved and amused, should read this.

Thalia Proctor, Editor, Sphere