The Keeper of Stories by Sally Page is an exquisitely crafted novel that captures the magic of everyday lives through the eyes of Janice
by Sally Page
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| Title | The Keeper of Stories |
| Writer | Sally Page |
| Publisher | One More Chapter |
| Publication date | 28th February 2022 |
| MBR star rating /5 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Genre | Women’s Fiction General Fiction (Adult) |
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Synopsis: The Keeper of Stories
The Keeper of Stories by Sally Page is a captivating novel that delves into the power of storytelling, human connection, and the hidden stories we all carry.
Janice, a cleaner with a keen ear and a knack for listening, has become a self-appointed collector of stories.
Over years of scrubbing sinks, defrosting fridges, and dusting sitting rooms, she’s discovered that people often unburden themselves to her.
Their individual tales, sometimes fleeting and other times profound, have become treasures she holds close.
Yet, for all the stories she gathers, Janice insists she has none of her own to share—or at least none she is willing to reveal.
When Janice begins working for Mrs. B, a sharp, spirited woman in her nineties, she meets her match. Mrs. B is observant, perceptive, and far from the frail figure Janice expected.
Unlike anyone else, Mrs. B is determined to turn the tables and uncover Janice’s own hidden narrative.
What follows is an emotional journey between two women from different generations, bound by curiosity and a mutual understanding of life’s complexities. Through her new friendship, Janice is forced to confront the past she’s buried, exploring whether she, too, deserves to have her story heard.
Written with warmth, wit, and insight, The Keeper of Stories is a tender exploration of how stories define us and how sharing them can heal old wounds.
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Review: The Keeper of Stories
The Keeper of Stories by Sally Page is an exquisitely crafted novel that captures the magic of everyday lives through the eyes of Janice, a cleaner whose unassuming job.
Belies her extraordinary gift for collecting and cherishing other people’s stories.
Setting and Plot
Set against the backdrop of Cambridge and its surrounding areas. With the novel being a celebration of the quiet yet profound ways people have an impact one another.
Janice is an engaging and complex narrator. Her professional life sees her welcomed into the homes and lives of a wide array of characters—from a grieving mother and son to a feisty 90-year-old woman with a dark secret, to a dog whose “swearing” adds levity to her day.
These interactions create a vibrant tapestry of personalities, each contributing to the novel’s rich narrative. Despite her knack for uncovering others’ stories, Janice guards her own past, which is slowly revealed as the novel unfolds.
Themes
The story also explores Janice’s personal struggles, including her dynamic with her husband, who dismissively refers to her as “just a cleaner”.
This portrayal adds depth to her journey as she navigates self-discovery and begins to find her own voice, with her growth which resonates deeply. This is Because it is intertwined with the meaningful connections Janice forms with the people in her orbit during the novel.
Sally Page’s writing shines with its vivid descriptions, warmth, and subtle humor. The balance between light-hearted moments and emotional depth keeps the story compelling.
The unique structure—blending Janice’s observations with the stories she uncovers—creates a layered, immersive experience for readers.
Conclusion The Keeper of Stories
is a delightful and poignant novel that celebrates the power of stories to transform lives, heal wounds, and foster understanding. It’s a highly engaging read that I would wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who enjoys character-driven tales filled with heart and humour.
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Mark.