The Book Chain

The Book Chain

An evening with author Rachael Wong

A story of friendship, loss, love and rediscovery — and the fascinating journey behind the writing of a novel.

In 1941, Alberto Amantelli arrives in Ljubljana at the head of an invasion force. There he witnesses an extraordinary act of resistance: citizens passing books from hand to hand to help create their new National Library. Alberto makes a brave and unexpected decision — one that will irrevocably change his life and the lives of those he comes to love.

More than 80 years later, in 2025, Kate is struggling to hold her life together. Her small circle of loyal friends is her lifeline. Then, quite unexpectedly, she becomes caught up in a mystery connected to Alberto’s story. As Kate and her friends begin to unravel his secrets, they discover that the past may have consequences for the present that none of them could have imagined.

“I couldn’t put it down. Rachael Wong is a talented storyteller.”

Lucy Corrin

Meet the author

Join Rachael Wong for a special evening exploring both The Book Chain and the journey behind its creation.

Rachael will take us behind the scenes, exploring:

• How she developed and researched the novel’s two timelines
• Her journey from the first idea for the book through to publication
• The challenges and discoveries involved in researching the historical story
• A virtual visit to some of the real locations featured in the novel
• Plenty of time for questions and discussion

Rachael Wong writes fiction for adults and is the author of her debut novel, The Book Chain. She previously wrote seven reading and story books for children centred on football and cricket and has made several appearances on BBC Radio discussing literacy and sport.

Come and discover the story behind The Book Chain — how an idea becomes a novel, how fact and fiction can be woven together, and what happens when two very different lives become connected across time.

There will also be wine, making this a relaxed and sociable evening for anyone who enjoys books, writing, history or simply a good story

Entrance: £5 for non-members | £4 for charity members

Tickets can be booked through the Thomas Poole Library, or by:

• Emailing eventsandpr@thomaspoolelibrary.org.uk
• Calling the library on 07734 968940