The Missing Pages
1992. Violet, a student at Harvard University, is still mourning the loss of her boyfriend when she gets a job at the Widener Library as a page. Among the stacks, Violet finds solace until odd things begin happening. Sounds, uncommon smells, and books falling at her feet lead Violet to believe there may be a ghost following her. Even more surprising? The ghost may be that of the library’s namesake, Harry Widener, who lost his life on the Titanic. Harvard legend recounts that Harry went back to his cabin to retrieve a valuable book instead of boarding a lifeboat. However, Violet slowly discovers that Harry may be trying to tell her a piece of his past that’s remained secret all these years. But why her, and why now?
The story is told in the third person through Violet and in first person as Harry’s ghost observes present events and recounts his past. I did not expect the paranormal elements to work as well as they did. Richman vividly reconstructs historical settings with opulent detail, recreating the journey of the real-life Harry Widener and following his footsteps leading up to the Titanic’s final moments. As someone who’s been captivated by the Titanic myself, walking through the ship’s exclusive (and less exclusive) areas was a delight! The dual time periods flow together seamlessly. Richman beautifully depicts the profound experience of grief, capturing the emotions of a mother who’s lost her son as well as those in romantic relationships. Violet is perpetually associated with her boyfriend’s untimely death by fellow students. Her narrative poignantly illustrates the challenges of moving past grief when reminders of it are omnipresent. Throughout the narrative, a passion for books is lyrically explored, highlighting their power to touch the heart and forge connections that transcend time. The Missing Pages is a book to savor. Recommended!
