Author: Mary Ann Shaffer & Annie BarrowsGenre: Historical FictionPublished: 2008Personal Rating: 4.5/5Yearly Count: 107
Written in epistolary format, the history of the Channel Islands before, during, and after the German Occupation is acquired by a writer named Juliet Ashton. Juliet becomes interested in Guernsey and its inhabitants when she receives a letter from farmer, Dawsey Adams requesting a favor of her. The correspondence continues with questions on both sides and then broadens to involve more and more residence of the island.
Right from the first letter, I knew I was going to enjoy this novel. I didn't know if I was going to devour it or hold back somewhat in order to savor it. I ended up slowing down (thanks to the Olympics) and soaking up each and every word; it allowed me the privilege of staying with these people just a little while longer.
The book contains a well-rounded, distinct cast, descriptive scenery, and life - the good and the bad. They are all tied together with deep purpose and emotion. I loved the wit that Juliet would interject into her letters, producing a huge grin from me every time and the sincere, heart-felt words from all writing participants. Ultimately, a desire to know more transcended all three elements. What a delightful book!
Yea! One more fan. I wonder if anyone won't like this book? I wish there would be a sequel.
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to this one!
ReplyDeleteyay - another good review. I cannot wait to get my hands on this book. I'm currently #19 on the hold list at the library (they have 10 copies so it shouldn't be a horribly long wait).
ReplyDeleteI saw this at the store the other day, but the name kind of turned me a off a little (Potato Peel Pie). Maybe I'll have to pick it up and browse through it a little because your review makes it sound like something I might enjoy.
ReplyDeleteHi Joy-I have read so many positive reviews of this novel. I've got it on reserve from the library and I can't wait to read it for myself. Nice review my friend!
ReplyDeleteI read this book this week too and loved it!
ReplyDeleteI loved the wit that Juliet would interject into her letters, producing a huge grin from me every time and the sincere, heart-felt words from all writing participants. Ultimately, a desire to know more transcended all three elements. What a delightful book!
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree more! This is simply the most enjoyable book I've read all year. I'd buy a copy for everyone on my Christmas list, but I'm afraid they've all read it by now! And, I agree with Kay. I'd love to read a sequel.
Kay ~ I read ONE review somewhere that gave it a 3/5. She didn't understand what all the hype was about, but still liked it.
ReplyDeleteMary ~ I think you'll like it, Mary.
Suzi ~ I was so thankful to receive it as a gift. For once I wasn't dependent on the library.
Trish ~ I had the exact same feelings about the title. It's actually disappointing because I know it will turn people away. However, the reviews are all positive, so I'm sure it'll do fine.
Dar ~ If you are interested in WWII, you'll like it. It can be an extremely fast read because it's hard to stop. :) Oh, I just remembered, there are a lot of characters and I had to pay close attention at first to get them organized in my mind.
Marg ~ It really is a good book, isn't it!?!
Les ~ I wonder if the niece would continue with a sequel. It's the perfect set up for a series. Let's hope. :)
This one just came in the mail! I can't wait to get started.
ReplyDeleteI just heard about this book yesterday and wondered if it would be good. The title is so long and so original. I'll be on the watch for it. Thanks, Joy.
ReplyDeleteErin ~ Once you start, I'll be hard to put down. :)
ReplyDeleteBooklogged ~ I hope you pick it up soon. I know you'll like it.
Joy,
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to see that you liked this book! I am a fan of books told in letters so I am anxious to read this book. It's high on my wishlist, I just need to get a copy to read!!
I'd heard about the book but wasn't too enthused until I heard an interview with the author. I'm glad to hear that you enjoyed the book so much.
ReplyDeleteBonnie ~ Me, too! (books told in letters) I must read more! :) I believe you'll like this one.
ReplyDeleteCarrie K ~ Oh I did. The personality of the main character is terrific and the WWII story line was very informative and interesting. A lot of it was totally new-to-me.
I saw the interview somewhere, but didn't get the chance to listen to it. I think I'll do that now. Thanks for the reminder. :)
I keep seeing so many glowing reviews of this book! It's on my TBR.
ReplyDeleteTeddy Rose ~ Oh good. I think you'll enjoy it when you get to it. (Don't wait too long!) :)
ReplyDeleteI finished reading it this morning. I LOVED it! I'm glad I bought it because I will definitely be reading it again someday. I'll be recommending it to friends.
ReplyDeleteMary ~ Oh I'm so glad! I received mine as a gift, so I have a copy, too. I love looking at it on my shelf. :)
ReplyDeleteI loved this book, too (and read it during the Olypics, too!).
ReplyDeleteGentle Reader ~ Somehow the Olympics forgot this:
ReplyDeleteThe Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society wins the GOLD!!! :)
A fine review! I've read other positive things about this book, too.
ReplyDeletei guess i'm going to have to get to this one soon!
ReplyDeleteDiana Raabe ~ It is a good book. I haven't heard anything bad about it either.
ReplyDeleteAlison ~ YES! :) You have a very, very good read in front of you. Enjoy!
Nice review. I reviewed this one too and gave it the same rating as you, four and a half stars out of five.
ReplyDeleteSandra ~ I envy those that haven't read it yet.
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