Yes. In this particular case the game wants the specific verb. In the end-game it makes sense to check if you really UNDERSTOOD the riddle. If you are past the puzzle with the book: you used the wanted verb there too. How you interact with book was a hint. If you're not past the book, think about it a bit. Imagine yourself in front of the shelves. What would you do if you find a strange book? Hope this helps!
PS: I'm trying to create games that take a less anachronistic approach. My first game Hibernated won a few prices for this.