Thursday, August 14, 2008

THE GUERNSEY LITERARY AND POTATO PEEL PIE SOCIETY

Author:  Mary Ann Shaffer & Annie Barrows
Genre:  Historical Fiction
Published:  2008
Personal Rating:  4.5/5
Yearly 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!

25 comments:

  1. Anonymous6:07 PM

    Yea! One more fan. I wonder if anyone won't like this book? I wish there would be a sequel.

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  2. I'm looking forward to this one!

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  3. yay - 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).

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  4. I 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.

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  5. Hi 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!

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  6. I read this book this week too and loved it!

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  7. 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!

    I 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.

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  8. 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.

    Mary ~ 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. :)

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  9. This one just came in the mail! I can't wait to get started.

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  10. I 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.

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  11. Erin ~ Once you start, I'll be hard to put down. :)

    Booklogged ~ I hope you pick it up soon. I know you'll like it.

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  12. Joy,

    I'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!!

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  13. 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.

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  14. Bonnie ~ Me, too! (books told in letters) I must read more! :) I believe you'll like this one.

    Carrie 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. :)

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  15. I keep seeing so many glowing reviews of this book! It's on my TBR.

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  16. Teddy Rose ~ Oh good. I think you'll enjoy it when you get to it. (Don't wait too long!) :)

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  17. I 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.

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  18. Mary ~ 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. :)

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  19. I loved this book, too (and read it during the Olypics, too!).

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  20. Gentle Reader ~ Somehow the Olympics forgot this:

    The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society wins the GOLD!!! :)

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  21. A fine review! I've read other positive things about this book, too.

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  22. i guess i'm going to have to get to this one soon!

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  23. Diana Raabe ~ It is a good book. I haven't heard anything bad about it either.

    Alison ~ YES! :) You have a very, very good read in front of you. Enjoy!

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  24. Nice review. I reviewed this one too and gave it the same rating as you, four and a half stars out of five.

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  25. Sandra ~ I envy those that haven't read it yet.

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