The Lions of Fifth Avenue

It’s not unusual for a setting to assume the role of a character in a novel, and the New York Public Library is no exception. With its grand architecture, mysterious archives, and secret nooks and crannies, the library is both a sanctuary and a prime target for theft. Without the library, there would be no narrative—no aura of literary greatness to inspire Jack, no confounding string of thefts, no books hidden in dumbwaiters, and no frightened Valentina cowering behind bookshelves. Fiona Davis takes great care in describing the smallest details of the historic building, its marble floors, its vaulted ceiling, the iconic twin lions out front. The library is symbolic of the ghosts of history waiting to be rediscovered, as well as the care and craftsmanship once accorded to repositories of history.

Laura’s final note—her one remaining written artifact, the only writing that has survived her death—is Sadie’s most tangible connection to her grandmother, to her thought process and emotional state before her death. It is valuable both personally and professionally. With Dr. Hooper clamoring for any example of Laura’s writing to include in an upcoming exhibit, Sadie’s discovery of the note is a boon to her career, one that makes the exhibit much more vital; this discovery also empowers Sadie, as she feels pride at solving the mystery. On a personal level, the note answers the central question of who stole the first edition of Tamerlane, as well as providing a key clue to Harry’s fate. By interpreting the note, Sadie realizes that Harry may still be alive, and when she locates him, she finds her only living connection, her primary source, to a family and a story that has bedeviled her for years.