Why people recommend it
Time Was Soft There by Jeremy Mercer is an engaging biographical memoir that chronicles the author's transformative experiences living and working at one of the world's most famous literary institutions. During the August 21, 2026 episode of The Book Review podcast, titled Why We Can’t Resist a Great Bookstore, guest Jennifer Harlan recommended the book to the listening audience. Harlan highlighted the memoir by explaining its central premise to the host and listeners. She stated that the book details the period of time the author spent immersed in the daily life of Shakespeare and Company, the legendary English-language bookstore located in Paris. Furthermore, Harlan shared her personal connection to the setting, explicitly noting during the discussion that the legendary Parisian shop stands as one of her absolute favorite bookstores in the entire world. By weaving her personal affection for the location together with the summary of Mercer's time among the bohemian writers, expatriates, and eccentric characters who frequented the shop, Harlan provided a compelling reason for book lovers to explore the memoir. The recommendation captured the romantic allure of independent bookstores and the profound community found within their walls.
Who recommended it
- Jennifer Harlan Recommended
Jennifer Harlan — 1 mention
“this book is called Time Was Soft There by Jeremy Mercer, and it is about the time that he spent at one of my favorite bookstores in the entire world, which is Shakespeare and Company in Paris.”