Helpful Score: 29
What a wonderful book! Having just finished this one, I am still smiling and thinking of the characters. Had I the time and money, I'd be booking a trip for Guernsey right this minute. As it is, I feel as though I've already visited and been made to feel at home.
Set in both London and Guernsey Island, this novel follows author Juliet as she becomes friends with the inhabitants of the island shortly after the end of World War 2. Told in epistolary style, Juliet learns of the occupied island and its deprivations, as well as the resounding spirit of the people who live there. As she writes, she becomes more and more intrigued with the stories of the people who survived the hard times, and she decides to create a book based on their experiences. In order to gather more information, Juliet moves temporarily to the island and soon finds herself immsersed in the culture and relationships.
This is absolutely one of the most delightful books I've read all year. The characters are real, the relationships are unique, and Juliet is hysterically funny, as well as warm hearted and genuine. I did have a bit of trouble keeping all the characters straight in the beginning, but once I caught on, I was enthralled. The pages just fly by and while you will learn a little of what happened to Guernsey during World War 2, you will learn much more about love and friendship. Highly recommended!
Set in both London and Guernsey Island, this novel follows author Juliet as she becomes friends with the inhabitants of the island shortly after the end of World War 2. Told in epistolary style, Juliet learns of the occupied island and its deprivations, as well as the resounding spirit of the people who live there. As she writes, she becomes more and more intrigued with the stories of the people who survived the hard times, and she decides to create a book based on their experiences. In order to gather more information, Juliet moves temporarily to the island and soon finds herself immsersed in the culture and relationships.
This is absolutely one of the most delightful books I've read all year. The characters are real, the relationships are unique, and Juliet is hysterically funny, as well as warm hearted and genuine. I did have a bit of trouble keeping all the characters straight in the beginning, but once I caught on, I was enthralled. The pages just fly by and while you will learn a little of what happened to Guernsey during World War 2, you will learn much more about love and friendship. Highly recommended!
Morgen K. (morgenck) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 54 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 21
This is one of the most beautiful books I have ever read. I loved it...couldn't put it down and when it ended I wanted to know more about the island, the characters, the war. I'm not going to post it until I have shared it with everyone I know and then read it again.
Helpful Score: 20
An exemplary epistolary novel about and for bibliophiles! The central correspondent is the witty, free-spirited Juliet Ashton, having written a humorous newspaper column during World War II subsequently compiled into a best-selling anthology called Izzy Bickerstaff Goes to War, in search of new material for her next project. A stranger, who happens to be a founding member of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, comes into the possession of one of her books and writes her a letter. Intrigued by the stories of how the Channel Island of Guernsey survived the German Occupation, Juliet strikes up a correspondence with members of the Society and ultimately travels to the Island, living among them to research her book.
Despite the somber overcast of WWII in the immediate past, Juliet's correspondents are full, vibrant characters, fleshed out in descriptive letters which are so missing from our modern communication. The novel harkens back to a more traditional time when friendships can blossom and be sustained on letters, but at the same time Juliet is a modern, independent woman in search of meaningful work and relationships. I'm saddened to learn that the primary author has passed away--requiring her niece's collaboration due to her failing health to make revisions--but not before knowing that this poignant book will be well received because it truly succeeds in showing how deep friendship and "the love of art ... enables people to transcend any barrier man has yet devised."
Despite the somber overcast of WWII in the immediate past, Juliet's correspondents are full, vibrant characters, fleshed out in descriptive letters which are so missing from our modern communication. The novel harkens back to a more traditional time when friendships can blossom and be sustained on letters, but at the same time Juliet is a modern, independent woman in search of meaningful work and relationships. I'm saddened to learn that the primary author has passed away--requiring her niece's collaboration due to her failing health to make revisions--but not before knowing that this poignant book will be well received because it truly succeeds in showing how deep friendship and "the love of art ... enables people to transcend any barrier man has yet devised."
Kristine S. (NHBookLover) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 293 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 17
I really enjoyed this book. A very fast read as it is all letters written to, and from, the main character, Juliet. Juliet is a writer and begins a correspondence with a stranger from Guernsey, after the war. This leads to her hearing from other members of the Potato Peel Society, and eventually a trip to Guernsey to interview them for a possible book. A wonderful group of characters, whom we meet totally through their letters. It isn't all roses, though. The war is still fresh in all their minds and they are missing one of their members and hoping she makes it home as she was sent to a concentration camp. Their stories, told through their letters, are wonderful - both sad and interesting. A good story; I hated to see it end.
Marianne S. (sfc95) -
Helpful Score: 15
Not my normal reading, but I read the rave reviews and thought I would check it out. It was a very good book, with just the right amount of humor and seriousness. I will say the book is too short and there is still more I want to know about the characters. maybe there will be a second book.
SALLY W. (thameslink) -
Helpful Score: 13
Delightful book about a wartime tragedy... The story is absolutely luminous with fully-fleshed characters that you will adore. I wish the author was still with us so that she could continue to delight us with more books, but alas, that is not to be. A quick, satisfying read that you won't want to end!!!
Helpful Score: 10
Well written book in letter format. Take a bit getting used to, reading letters back and forth between characters, but after a few pages you feel like your the receipent of each letter. Wonderful characters, great setting, well-paced. Post-WWII London and Channel Island are the setting for this story of love, friendship and finding where one belongs. Highly recommend this book.
Tara C. (Aut2Breading) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 43 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 10
Told through letters and correspondence, a story of the German occupation in the Channel Islands and a remarkable girl who lived there arises. Through the letters, I fell in love with the characters and genuinely wanted to know what happened next in their lives. A tale of what books affect our lives, this book is a must read for anyone who loves reading. It really was a book that I did not want to end and will be hard to part with.
Cheryl B. (cjbaltes) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 22 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 8
Great historical fiction. I enjoyed learning/thinking about the characters who lived under German occupation during WWII. Even with it's serious setting, the book is hilarious. You start out chuckling and end up laughing out loud. Highly recommended!
Joy M. (ritaflwr) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 16 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 8
Great Book! The time period of the book was the WWII occupation of Guernsey Island by the German troups. Many of the island people endured great suffering during this time.
However, the cleverness of the writing, and the humor that is sprinkled throughout lighten the tone of the book. The story of the islanders is told through correspondence with an author that becomes interested in the people of the island, and the Literary Society of some of the inhabitants. Also, the descriptions of the people, the island, and the ocean are told in word pictures. Did I mention this was a great book?
However, the cleverness of the writing, and the humor that is sprinkled throughout lighten the tone of the book. The story of the islanders is told through correspondence with an author that becomes interested in the people of the island, and the Literary Society of some of the inhabitants. Also, the descriptions of the people, the island, and the ocean are told in word pictures. Did I mention this was a great book?
Polly J. (spiritedbabe59) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 106 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 8
I don't know as I can say much more about this book than has all ready been said - but I found this book to be utterly charming and warm. I loved the telling of the story through letters a delightful way to connect with these characters. You will admire their triumphs, want to be a part of their friendships and adventures, and wish for your own trip to Guernsey Island. Read this one and savor it. You won't be disappointed.
Cathy C. (cathyskye) -
Helpful Score: 8
First Line: Dear Sidney, Susan Scott is a wonder.
It would be almost impossible to be a book lover in this day and age and not be aware of all the flap over this novel when it was published. As usual, I checked to see what the book was about, decided it sounded like something I would enjoy, and put it on my wish list at Paperback Swap. There was quite a line of people waiting for the book, and I knew that, by the time a copy found its way into my hands, most of the buzz would have died down. Many times I think all the hype surrounding a book can raise a reader's expectations of it too much. As a result, I tend to let the clamor (and my own expectations) die down a bit before I go ahead and read it.
I was hooked by "the potato book" almost from the very first page. Novelist Juliet Ashton is worn down from book tours and tired of writing about the war. She wants to find a different subject on which to focus her attention. Little does she know that she's going to find exactly what she needs when she opens a letter written by Guernsey native Dawsey Adams. Adams came across her name in a used book and writes to know if she's aware of any good biographies of Charles Lamb? She does, and a wonderful correspondence begins that gradually encompasses many of the natives on that small Channel Island as they begin to tell her their experiences during the Nazi occupation.
I loved Juliet's voice and the entire cast of characters in this book. I read a comment here and there about too many threads in a wandering plot, but I thought the lives of the characters unfolded perfectly in the letters written by Juliet and others. Meeting a new person and finding out about that person's life is not a straight line; the path meanders. Moving from one character's life to another also means that, if you don't care for a particular person, you're not stuck reading about him (or her) indefinitely. I always learned just enough about one character to make me want to keep turning the pages to gather the next nugget of information.
Who's going to enjoy The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society? Lovers of epistolary novels, lovers of books set during World War II, and lovers of marvelous characterization. If you've put off reading this book, now might just be the time for you to break down and read it. I waited, and my own expectations were greatly exceeded.
It would be almost impossible to be a book lover in this day and age and not be aware of all the flap over this novel when it was published. As usual, I checked to see what the book was about, decided it sounded like something I would enjoy, and put it on my wish list at Paperback Swap. There was quite a line of people waiting for the book, and I knew that, by the time a copy found its way into my hands, most of the buzz would have died down. Many times I think all the hype surrounding a book can raise a reader's expectations of it too much. As a result, I tend to let the clamor (and my own expectations) die down a bit before I go ahead and read it.
I was hooked by "the potato book" almost from the very first page. Novelist Juliet Ashton is worn down from book tours and tired of writing about the war. She wants to find a different subject on which to focus her attention. Little does she know that she's going to find exactly what she needs when she opens a letter written by Guernsey native Dawsey Adams. Adams came across her name in a used book and writes to know if she's aware of any good biographies of Charles Lamb? She does, and a wonderful correspondence begins that gradually encompasses many of the natives on that small Channel Island as they begin to tell her their experiences during the Nazi occupation.
I loved Juliet's voice and the entire cast of characters in this book. I read a comment here and there about too many threads in a wandering plot, but I thought the lives of the characters unfolded perfectly in the letters written by Juliet and others. Meeting a new person and finding out about that person's life is not a straight line; the path meanders. Moving from one character's life to another also means that, if you don't care for a particular person, you're not stuck reading about him (or her) indefinitely. I always learned just enough about one character to make me want to keep turning the pages to gather the next nugget of information.
Who's going to enjoy The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society? Lovers of epistolary novels, lovers of books set during World War II, and lovers of marvelous characterization. If you've put off reading this book, now might just be the time for you to break down and read it. I waited, and my own expectations were greatly exceeded.
Tracy S. (Bernelli) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 266 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 7
Wonderful, heartfelt story which unravels completely through letters between an author seeking information for a story and the members of the Potato Peel Pie Society.
Heather O. (peacefulreader) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 20 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 7
I absolutley loved this book. The elegance of her writing sets you right there in the novel with all of the characters. I was completely entralled with this book.
Helpful Score: 6
4 people told me to read this book and I kept holding back due to the title, which struck me as odd. Thank goodness I finally gave in! I loved it!!! I never wanted the book to end and enjoyed the characters SO MUCH that I found myself wishing i could travel to Guernsey, post WWII and meet every single one of them. As a side note, the Afterword by the authors was just as thought provoking and heart wrenching as the book itself. I'm saddened to know there is no possibility of another book by this incredible author.
Jay C. (jareylee) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 25 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
Charming, engaging, warm book about people living lives to the fullest in a complex environment. Set just after the end of WWII about the people of Guernsey, one of the Channel Islands, occupied for five years by the Germans. The novel's plot and characters are presented entirely and solely through letters and telegrams to the other characters of the novel. I wasn't sure it would work for me when I first picked up the book, but I got hooked early on and loved the convention and the way the plot unfolded and its characters developed. Easy to read, no side themes to research or understand, except perhaps an awareness of the devastation of occupied and bombed Europe immediately following WWII (now that it's been more than 60 years since WWII ended). No battle scenes; brief descriptions presented as recollection of concentration camp atrocities. Main theme is people turning lemons into lemonades, living life today as fully as possible, in finding and valuing what's best in each other. But, not sappy or syrupy. Yes, there's a love story, too, a child, and a dog within its pages.
Helpful Score: 5
I really enjoyed this book. It is written mostly in letters back and forth among the main characters. I wonder if a book could be written today with back and forth email? Letter writing seems perfect to the time setting of this book, shich is immediately post WWII. I also learned about the Channel Islands and the fact that they were occupied during WWII. Very good.
Linda R. (petpeople) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 14 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
So sweet!!! Refreshingly wholesome characters yet filled with such emotion. Although the descriptions of the German Occupation were horrific, you'll come to love this book as the characters develop through their letter writing. I'd have to read "just one more letter" before I could put it down for the day.
Helpful Score: 4
This was my third reading of this book. It is one of the best books I have ever read. I have purchased it several times to give to friends. I absolutely LOVE this book. I am sad that the author passed away and can not give us more of her wonderful writings. It gave a view of war during World War II of the channel islands.
Helpful Score: 4
Although I was initially put off by the letter-format, I enjoyed this book very much. The characters immediately drew me in. As a person interested in WW II history, I appreciated this account of the unique experiences of the people of Guernsey. Insights into the lives of common people placed in extraordinary circumstances and warm friendships between heretofore strangers were a joy to experience in the reading of this book.
Wendy F. (mysticmom) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 30 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
A moving story of the aftermath of World War II on a British isle that was occupied by the Nazis.
Margaret S. (mzakzoe) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 8 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
This is a wonderful book. I learned much about the German occupation of the Channel Islands during WW2. The characters are richly deeloped thruough the servies of notes and letters that make up the book.I recommend this book.
Trish F. (TrishCF) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 35 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
What a fantastic read! The story transports you to post WWII Guersey and relates the stories of how the inhabitants survived German occupation. The story is told entirely through letters written among the characters, and it was both heart-breaking and heart-warming. A very moving story.
Natasha R. (pittsteelfan) -
Helpful Score: 3
I loved this book. The characters are so real that you forget your reading a work of fiction. This book deserves a sequel.
Kris L. (miss-info) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 386 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
When I first started the book I thought the letter format would be a distraction and I would not be able to get into the story. I was wrong! After the first few letters I was hooked, and grew increasingly more hooked as the book went on.
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
Helpful Score: 2
I have a rather eclectic taste in books, and that said, I have a number of favorites in different genres. But this book made it into my top ten favorites of all category. I highly recommend it.
Helpful Score: 2
Very clever story-telling all through a series of letters between the characters. Tells the story of the German Occupation on Guernsey Island, which is located in the English Channel. The story is being told during the year of 1946, as a writer comes to be facinated with the Literary Society and it's members lives. Letter writing seems to be a lost art with a particular rhythm and pace. It was a pleasure to slow down and spend time with these interesting people.
Angie Kathleen L. (stories2tell) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 47 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I recently reviewed this book for our new book club. While I had read and loved it when it first came out, for the review I listened to it on CD and found the many voices brought it even more to life. Any version is wonderful and I wish it would be made into a movie! This historical fiction highlights the only British territory occupied by the Germans during WWII. It takes place in 1946 immediately following the occupation and after the 5,000 evacuated children are returned. Islanders are still awaiting return of some interred citizens. It has humor, love, courage and cruelty.
The story revolves around books and the accidental formation of a literary society by a group of farm people who were not avid readers. Because books were still scarce on the island, a correspondence develops between an island man and the person who's sticker-of-previous-ownership appears on a book he is reading. The previous owner happens to be a writer who is delighted to learn about the literary society and enlarges her correspondence to include other members. Told entirely through letters (lovely and reveling letters) this is the only novel by Mary Ann Shaffer, as she passed away shortly before publication.This was a great loss; but I am left with a love for Guernsey Island and the memory of some unique characters my heart treasures as friends.
The story revolves around books and the accidental formation of a literary society by a group of farm people who were not avid readers. Because books were still scarce on the island, a correspondence develops between an island man and the person who's sticker-of-previous-ownership appears on a book he is reading. The previous owner happens to be a writer who is delighted to learn about the literary society and enlarges her correspondence to include other members. Told entirely through letters (lovely and reveling letters) this is the only novel by Mary Ann Shaffer, as she passed away shortly before publication.This was a great loss; but I am left with a love for Guernsey Island and the memory of some unique characters my heart treasures as friends.
Helpful Score: 2
This book came highly recommended by my Canadian book buddy. She was not exaggerating. I enjoyed it more than any book I've read in a long time. Since then, everyone I've talked to who has read it, agrees. The format takes a little getting used to, but after six or seven letters, it feels as natural as regular dialog. I believe the author's natural wit was projected through the banter between Sidney and Juliet. All of the characters were well developed. This book has made me add Guernsey to my list of places to visit. I've lent the book to a friend who is now on her second reading, and another friend has recommended that I read it a second time as well.
Melody C. (Melody1959) -
Helpful Score: 2
Sometimes I am disappointed by hyped books NOT so with this story. I really enjoyed my trip to post-war London and Guernsey.Sorry to see the book end
Helpful Score: 2
WOW! this is a really great book - soooo much better then I was expecting - sad one of the author's isn't with us anymore so we can't have another helping.
Helpful Score: 2
Wonderful story, well written and a treasure of a book. Would read another book by her anytime. Sometimes 'letter' styles can be a bit distracting or boring but she writes with humor, sensitivity and in an intriguing manner. Makes me want to visit the Guernsey Islands.
Lori M. (lormac) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 120 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
A fun book, light and easy to read. Reading someone else's mail is always seductive, and that narrative technique pulls you through this book faster than you might like. Somehow I can see a sequel (but it won't be as much fun...)
Helpful Score: 2
This book is absolutely amazing and provides an extremely unique experience!!! The story is told solely in letters between the characters of the book. If you are someone like me who enjoys a bit of a historical edge to a story, then you will love this one. It takes place immediately after World War II in England and the Channel Islands. Juliet, a journalist/author, has just published a book of columns she had written during the war that were meant to keep spirits light during those hard times. As she is doing a book tour, she begins receiving letters from a man from Guernsey, one of the Channel Islands. He had read a book that somehow was connected to her and so he began communicating with her. This initial communication leads to Juliet learning about the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society which was essentially a book club that the people of Guernsey started as a ruse to trick the German troops but it became a true book review kind of club in earnest. Juliet then begins communicating with all of the members of the club and even some other islanders. She begins finding out what life was like for the islanders because they were occupied by German soldiers. The story is heartwarming as much as heartbreaking. This is truly a phenomenal story and you must read it because I do not want to give too much away!!!
Christy S. (figsandthistles) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Initially I supposed that the format of the book, a series of letters written in an epistolary style by several characters, would be difficult at best and incoherent at worst: I was wrong on both counts.
The character development is quick, and the characters themselves prove to be endearing. The story line centers on the German occupation of the Channel Island of Guernsey and the perseverance of the Islanders.
Julia, the focal point of the novel, has an acerbic wit that brought levity to the otherwise harrowing subject matter.
I enjoyed the book and finished it within two days!
The character development is quick, and the characters themselves prove to be endearing. The story line centers on the German occupation of the Channel Island of Guernsey and the perseverance of the Islanders.
Julia, the focal point of the novel, has an acerbic wit that brought levity to the otherwise harrowing subject matter.
I enjoyed the book and finished it within two days!
Helpful Score: 2
"Perhaps there is some secret sort of homing instinct in books that brings them to their perfect readers." Told through a series of letters, this novel is heartfelt, but without being overly sentimental. The book describes life on the island of Guernsey during the German occupation of World War II. Characters include Juliet Ashton, writing a book about Guernsey island and its inhabitants; Isola Pribby, part-time detective and founding member of the literary society; Elizabeth, young nurse in love with a German officer; Dawsey, the quiet pig farmer/carpenter and reluctant member of the society. The Literary society is formed as a way to help residents cope with the German presence.
This book works on so many levels as a historical novel, a humorous story, a comment on reading, a comment on man's humanity and inhumanity during some of the darkest days of the last century. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll join a book group.
This book works on so many levels as a historical novel, a humorous story, a comment on reading, a comment on man's humanity and inhumanity during some of the darkest days of the last century. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll join a book group.
Sarah C. (polyglot) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 4 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
⢠Loved this!
⢠very cleverly written through letters between the characters
⢠made me laugh and cry
⢠makes me want to visit Guernsey
⢠very cleverly written through letters between the characters
⢠made me laugh and cry
⢠makes me want to visit Guernsey
Abby T. (abbykt) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 113 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
This was a fun easy read. At first I had a hard time getting into the style of the letter correspondence but as I read more, I was able to hear each individual voice. I have never read anything about the German occupation so it was a good bit of history for me. Similiar to the way I felt about The Book Thief, once again, Hitler did not endear himself to his soldiers that were also stranded on the island. No one had it easy. There were many touching and comical parts to the story.
Helpful Score: 2
Absolutely charming book. I was sorry to turn the last page and have it be over. Each character had a story, and you got to know each of them. I loved the book. Very quick read. I see exactly why there are so many "wishes" for this book, I will look forward to sharing mine.
Dory Q. (doryfish77) -
Helpful Score: 2
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, told through letters exchanged among the multiple characters, is a charming and emotional story of the small island during and after the German occupation of World War II. The main character, Juliet, is an author who begins - quite by coincidence - researching the background of the uniquely named literary society on the island of Guernsey. As she gets to know more and more of the inhabitants of the island she finds the inspiration for her next book and much more. This book was easy to read and while at first I was wary of the format (the entire book is letters) I found it unique and could not put it down. The characters are well-developed and the story, while a little bit predictable, was delightful none the less.
Judy B. (Hoody) -
Helpful Score: 1
I almost didn't read this book due to all of the hype. I don't know why but somtime a lot hype about a book puts me off. However, I love to read historical fiction about the holocaust so I decided to give it a try. I am so glad that I did. I gave this book 5 stars I loved it so much. It is not your usual depressing story that is based on holocaust events. In fact it is uplifting. It takes place just after the war ends and tells a very human story of how people came together and survived. It also tells of the sacrifices others made out of love and compasion. I absoulutly love Juliet, the main charicter. She is the kind of woman I would like to be. I admire her spirt, strength, and indapendance. If you chose to read this book you will not be dissapointed.
Joan W. (justreadingabook) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 1728 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Didn't get as much as I thought I would out of this book and what others said about how they really loved it. A good read, the story just didn't pull me in as I hoped it would. Better luck to you!
Krista T. (ktudor) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 35 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
My mother recommended this book. What a TREAT!!!!! I love books and so it was wonderful to become engrossed in a story where the characters also hold the love of books.
The story is written in the form of letters and takes place just after WWII. The description is so well done you can imagine yourself there on Guernsey island. The speech patterns an dialog match the place and time.
It's a quick read but a story you will remember for a long time.
The story is written in the form of letters and takes place just after WWII. The description is so well done you can imagine yourself there on Guernsey island. The speech patterns an dialog match the place and time.
It's a quick read but a story you will remember for a long time.
Helpful Score: 1
So I let some negative reviews keep me from this book for longer than I should have. I absolutely LOVED this book, just finished it and can't wait to pass it on to someone who will love it also.
I've seen some reviews call it fluffy which is crazy. I thought it was a delightful book and I couldn't put it down. It drew me in the first few pages with lovable Juliet and I fell in love with each character in the book and wished I could meet them.
Sometimes in life pure coincidence does happen through some small commmon interest - if you can suspend disbelief and let your romantic side run free and you've been wanting to read this book - READ IT.
It's a quick read and it will be one of the most beloved books I've ever read.
I've seen some reviews call it fluffy which is crazy. I thought it was a delightful book and I couldn't put it down. It drew me in the first few pages with lovable Juliet and I fell in love with each character in the book and wished I could meet them.
Sometimes in life pure coincidence does happen through some small commmon interest - if you can suspend disbelief and let your romantic side run free and you've been wanting to read this book - READ IT.
It's a quick read and it will be one of the most beloved books I've ever read.
Jennifer K. (knightsread) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 9 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I wasn't ready for the story to end. The book was terrific. The characters and places were described so well, that I could picture them in my mind. I loved the book, but hated for it to end. I wanted more. What happens next...?
Kris L. (miss-info) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 386 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
When I first started the book I thought the letter format would be a distraction and I would not be able to get into the story. I was wrong! After the first few letters I was hooked, and grew increasingly more hooked as the book went on.
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
Patricia M. (sorcha11) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this book, I read it practically overnight, I liked the historical aspect, I did not realize that any part of England had been occupied by the Nazi's during the war.
Merri C. (Lati2de) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 68 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I really loved the style of this book. The writing was just wonderful, and I just couldn't put it down. The subject (WWII occupation by the Germans) is difficult, and so I wouldn't suggest this for a sunny day at the beach. But it is a wonderful book.
Helpful Score: 1
What a wonderful book and story. Nothing like it! Highly recommend!
Jennifer C. (bookjnky) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 7 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book is absolutely charming. It tells the tale of people who played different roles during World War Two. You get to know interesting characters all through letters written between the characters in the story. You won't want this story to end as you see the connections and relationships of the characters unfold.
Kerri-Ann P. (kapetty) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 8 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
The book is very creative. I didn't realize how much it captivated me until I was done with it. The characters are witty, personal, and brightly colored. Enjoyable.
Helpful Score: 1
Loved, loved, loved this book! Quick and thought provoking read. Good character development through multiple voices.
Helpful Score: 1
A great story, written in the manner of 84 Charing Cross Road.....a series of letters to tell the story. I plan to re-read this book every few years.
Stephanie G. (thestephanieloves) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 241 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
If this review and the promise of exquisite scenery, intelligent conversation, wry flirtations, and heartening nostalgia found within the pages of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society won't convince you to give the book a try, I don't know what will.
Told completely in descriptive letters, amusing telegrams, and exclusive marginal notes, this modern British classic details the lives and events of post-World War II civilians, particularly in bomb-raided London and the recently liberated Channel Islands. The backdrop is extraordinarily well set, with eye-opening and little-known flashes of war terror mingled with depressing, but rich details of Guernsey's isolation under the prolonged German occupation during the war (which lasted until 1945). Both the tempestuous German reign and the brief evocations of the Belsen concentration camps are horrific, but they contrast magnificently with the gorgeous portraits of post-war Guernsey.
Dawsey Adams finds the name and address of budding war commentator and novelist, Juliet Ashton, in a book he's acquired secondhand, and seeing that the particular titlea Charles Lamb classicis well worn, he decides to write her expressing his admiration for the author and complimenting her taste. He doesn't expect Juliet to respondshe doesn't know who he is, after allbut with her spirit and partiality towards literature, she doesenthusiastically. And thus they embark on an exciting, sparkling correspondence.
Shaffer has breathed life into her delightful, vivid cast of characters. Dawsey, Sidney, Isola, Susan, the late Elizabeth, and young KitI fell in love with all of them! They're simply enchanting... such a diverse, memorable group. I want to see more like them in fiction, and frankly, more like them in real life!
Juliet is so my favorite. Rebellious, lovable, and charismatic, she marches to her own drum and has a satirical approach to everything. She's the perfect blend of compassion, angst, and irony, and I absolutely loved her as well. She may, from the viewpoints of her elders, have misplaced priorities and be rather reckless with her actions, but she is fiercely stubbornfiercely passionateand that's what makes her such a sensational person.
When introduced to a magical literary community, Juliet is able to free her inhibitions and revel in what she knows best and devotes to the most: books. She brings out the book lover in all of us, and her engagement with the Society poignantly demonstrates the marvelous escapism of books. Guided by the wisdom of literary heros like Austen and Lamb, her and the other members' lives, once crossed, will be changed forever. This book is perfect for those who love and are awed by the power of the written wordthe power it has to bring people together.
I desperately clung on to every word; stylistically and structurally, not one sentence is out of place. With smooth narration and keen insight, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a delightful escape with luscious facets of history and immaculate observations that will immerses readers completely. A modern adaptation of a time-revered romance, it has the witticisms and hopeful predictability that is universally reminiscent in any era and any upbringing.
Here is a book to read again and again, and to cherish for a long time to come. It isn't just about the wonder of reading and friendship; it's about finding light in wartime, finding peace in destruction. It's about true lovetrue identityand it delivers a quintessential message about humanity that we all ought to keep in mind: that in love, sometimes pride is a far, far bigger crime than prejudice.
Pros: Highly evocative in setting // Bright, endearing characters that I want to take home with me // Beautifully written, from multiple vibrant perspectives // Quaint British tonemy favorite! // Humorous // Memorable // Starry and stunningly romantic // Will appeal even to those who don't like historical novels; buoyant and chronicled, rather than dense and dull // Shrewd in emotional bearing // Heart-warming; a 100% feel-good read
Cons: The first few pages are a bit difficult to follow because you don't know who's who, but gradual character descriptions clear this up immediately // It ended!!!!
Love: "We clung to books and to our friends; they reminded us that we had another part to us."
Verdict: The miraculous effect of arts and culture, and the appreciation of literature and storytellingand they way they both shape us humansis luminously presented in The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. Expressive, magical, and utterly remarkable, this epistolary narrative is, in one breath, charming with sharp penetration and irresistible perspective. In between the suppression of grief-struck war memories and slow recuperation, is a beautifully refreshing, dazzling, and hopeful reminder that in storieson paper and in penpeople live and love on. In Juliet's own words: "The war is now the story of our lives, and there's no denying it." So too with this novel.
Rating: 10 out of 10 hearts: I'm speechless; this book is an extraordinarily amazingly wonderfully fantastically marvelous masterpiece.
Source: Complimentary copy provided by TripFiction in exchange for an honest and unbiased review (thank you!).
Told completely in descriptive letters, amusing telegrams, and exclusive marginal notes, this modern British classic details the lives and events of post-World War II civilians, particularly in bomb-raided London and the recently liberated Channel Islands. The backdrop is extraordinarily well set, with eye-opening and little-known flashes of war terror mingled with depressing, but rich details of Guernsey's isolation under the prolonged German occupation during the war (which lasted until 1945). Both the tempestuous German reign and the brief evocations of the Belsen concentration camps are horrific, but they contrast magnificently with the gorgeous portraits of post-war Guernsey.
Dawsey Adams finds the name and address of budding war commentator and novelist, Juliet Ashton, in a book he's acquired secondhand, and seeing that the particular titlea Charles Lamb classicis well worn, he decides to write her expressing his admiration for the author and complimenting her taste. He doesn't expect Juliet to respondshe doesn't know who he is, after allbut with her spirit and partiality towards literature, she doesenthusiastically. And thus they embark on an exciting, sparkling correspondence.
Shaffer has breathed life into her delightful, vivid cast of characters. Dawsey, Sidney, Isola, Susan, the late Elizabeth, and young KitI fell in love with all of them! They're simply enchanting... such a diverse, memorable group. I want to see more like them in fiction, and frankly, more like them in real life!
Juliet is so my favorite. Rebellious, lovable, and charismatic, she marches to her own drum and has a satirical approach to everything. She's the perfect blend of compassion, angst, and irony, and I absolutely loved her as well. She may, from the viewpoints of her elders, have misplaced priorities and be rather reckless with her actions, but she is fiercely stubbornfiercely passionateand that's what makes her such a sensational person.
When introduced to a magical literary community, Juliet is able to free her inhibitions and revel in what she knows best and devotes to the most: books. She brings out the book lover in all of us, and her engagement with the Society poignantly demonstrates the marvelous escapism of books. Guided by the wisdom of literary heros like Austen and Lamb, her and the other members' lives, once crossed, will be changed forever. This book is perfect for those who love and are awed by the power of the written wordthe power it has to bring people together.
I desperately clung on to every word; stylistically and structurally, not one sentence is out of place. With smooth narration and keen insight, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a delightful escape with luscious facets of history and immaculate observations that will immerses readers completely. A modern adaptation of a time-revered romance, it has the witticisms and hopeful predictability that is universally reminiscent in any era and any upbringing.
Here is a book to read again and again, and to cherish for a long time to come. It isn't just about the wonder of reading and friendship; it's about finding light in wartime, finding peace in destruction. It's about true lovetrue identityand it delivers a quintessential message about humanity that we all ought to keep in mind: that in love, sometimes pride is a far, far bigger crime than prejudice.
Pros: Highly evocative in setting // Bright, endearing characters that I want to take home with me // Beautifully written, from multiple vibrant perspectives // Quaint British tonemy favorite! // Humorous // Memorable // Starry and stunningly romantic // Will appeal even to those who don't like historical novels; buoyant and chronicled, rather than dense and dull // Shrewd in emotional bearing // Heart-warming; a 100% feel-good read
Cons: The first few pages are a bit difficult to follow because you don't know who's who, but gradual character descriptions clear this up immediately // It ended!!!!
Love: "We clung to books and to our friends; they reminded us that we had another part to us."
Verdict: The miraculous effect of arts and culture, and the appreciation of literature and storytellingand they way they both shape us humansis luminously presented in The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. Expressive, magical, and utterly remarkable, this epistolary narrative is, in one breath, charming with sharp penetration and irresistible perspective. In between the suppression of grief-struck war memories and slow recuperation, is a beautifully refreshing, dazzling, and hopeful reminder that in storieson paper and in penpeople live and love on. In Juliet's own words: "The war is now the story of our lives, and there's no denying it." So too with this novel.
Rating: 10 out of 10 hearts: I'm speechless; this book is an extraordinarily amazingly wonderfully fantastically marvelous masterpiece.
Source: Complimentary copy provided by TripFiction in exchange for an honest and unbiased review (thank you!).
Helpful Score: 1
Very good book.
Helpful Score: 1
I thought about keeping this book b/c I enjoyed it so much but decided it's too good not to share!
Helpful Score: 1
Fantastic Book.
Cary S. (caryreads) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 11 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book is fun, and charming, and a wonderful read. A truly wonderful and original approach to the story of the Nazi occupation of Guernsey
Helpful Score: 1
One of the best I've read in quite some time; quirky, endearing characters, riveting storyline, and a novel format that begs you to "read just one more"
Victoria (YSB) -
Helpful Score: 1
What a thoroughly enjoyable book! A book constructed almost entirely of letters and telegrams, its fun structure made it a very quick read. I think that the last epistolary book I read was in junior high and I had forgotten just how charming this format can be. I liked all the characters, and while the plot was predictable, it was filled with a lot of life and spirit of the characters which kept me turning the pages. I had never heard anything about the Occupation of the Channel Islands (to be perfectly honest, I did not even know that there were islands in the Channel at all). It was a very straightforward and enjoyable book and I am glad that it lived up to its good reputation!
Helpful Score: 1
Really enjoyed it. Cute book, nice story. It was interesting to learn more about the period and the history but the book wasn't dry or anything at all.
Judy M. (menzrob) - , reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 81 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Wonderful! Not only did I enjoy every minute of this read, but began to appreciate books written in letter form and have moved on to a couple more since (i.e., 84 Charing Cross Road & The Duchess of Bloomsbury Street).
Helpful Score: 1
January 1946: London is slowly emerging from the deep shadows of World War II and writer Juliet Ashton is in search of the subject of her next book. Who could know that she would find it in a letter written to her by a man whom she's never met. This gentleman, a native of the Island of Guernsey, came across her name written inside a book written by Charles Lamb.
As Juliet and her new correspondent exchange letters, Juliet is drawn into the world of the man and his friends - all members of a secret society - The Guernsey Literary Potato Peel Pie Society - formed out of a spur-of-the-moment alibi when its members were discovered breaking curfew by the Germans occupying their island. Each member brings something to this intrepid circle of firm, fast friends that develops. From pig farmers to phrenologists, they are literature lovers all.
Juliet begins a remarkable correspondence with the society's members, learning about their island, their taste in books and the impact that the recent German occupation has had on their lives. Captivated by their stories, Juliet eventually sets sail to see Guernsey for herself. What she discovers there will change her life forever.
I must say that I found this to be a truly captivating book, myself, and was drawn to the characters' plight and heroism. I really couldn't put this book down and found myself hoping against hope that each character would come through their trials and tribulations safe and sound on the other side. This book really highlighted for me how Guernsey and the rest of the Channel Islands survived and, yes, even thrived amidst such terrible deprivatation and hardship. I would give this book an A+! Ms. Shaffer and her niece, Ms. Barrows have created, in my opinion, a truly memorable book.
As Juliet and her new correspondent exchange letters, Juliet is drawn into the world of the man and his friends - all members of a secret society - The Guernsey Literary Potato Peel Pie Society - formed out of a spur-of-the-moment alibi when its members were discovered breaking curfew by the Germans occupying their island. Each member brings something to this intrepid circle of firm, fast friends that develops. From pig farmers to phrenologists, they are literature lovers all.
Juliet begins a remarkable correspondence with the society's members, learning about their island, their taste in books and the impact that the recent German occupation has had on their lives. Captivated by their stories, Juliet eventually sets sail to see Guernsey for herself. What she discovers there will change her life forever.
I must say that I found this to be a truly captivating book, myself, and was drawn to the characters' plight and heroism. I really couldn't put this book down and found myself hoping against hope that each character would come through their trials and tribulations safe and sound on the other side. This book really highlighted for me how Guernsey and the rest of the Channel Islands survived and, yes, even thrived amidst such terrible deprivatation and hardship. I would give this book an A+! Ms. Shaffer and her niece, Ms. Barrows have created, in my opinion, a truly memorable book.
Helpful Score: 1
What a wondrous tale. This is one of the most enjoyable books I've read this year and I probably read at least 4 books a week. My copy disintegrated after being shared in our small community so I am wishlisting a second copy.
Helpful Score: 1
I really liked this book. It was an easy read about a subject I didn't know about.
Fantastically charming tale. Loved every minute of reading it. If you are in any way a romantic, anglophile, or history buff this book might be right up your alley.
Ginger C. (1ging) -
Helpful Score: 1
Without a doubt one of my favorite books of all time! I ordered it in hardcover for my library as soon as I finished the paperback copy. It's a keeper!
Clare B. (ClareS) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 87 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Learning about German occupation of Guernsey was fascinating.
A quick read.
Very enjoyable.
A quick read.
Very enjoyable.
Candace G. (Ogre) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 1568 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Delightful! No other word so concisely expresses my feelings about this remarkable little book.
Just after the end of W.W.II, a stressed-out author is contacted by someone on the island of Guernsey, who found her address in a book which once belonged to her.
So begins a correspondence with various Guernsey people which flowers into all sorts of unexpected events.
Just after the end of W.W.II, a stressed-out author is contacted by someone on the island of Guernsey, who found her address in a book which once belonged to her.
So begins a correspondence with various Guernsey people which flowers into all sorts of unexpected events.
Michelle C. (Shellaree) -
Helpful Score: 1
This was an interesting book about a small island off the coast of England and how they survived World War II. We read this as a book club and each one of us really enjoyed the book. It was easy to follow even though the story was told in letters. A little slice of life on the Guernsey Islands.
Helpful Score: 1
You will be swept away into the life of the Guernsey Literary & Potato Pee Pie Society. The people are stubborn, warm, hard noised, full of life etc. The book starts out living the life during war, but in the end you get to see what war did to Guernsey island and what it did to them in a moving way.
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this book so much that I think I will chose it for my next book club. I would happily read it again. I felt like I was friends with the delightful people on Guernsey. The end is somewhat predictable but that does not take away anything from the book.
Helpful Score: 1
LOVED this book. I am going to recommend it to my friends in town. Great characters and a real glimpse into the war and it's aftermath. I want to visit the Channel Islands now!
Stacie F. (staceid) -
Helpful Score: 1
While I'm normally not a fan of books that are composed entirely of letters back and forth, I absolutely loved this one.
The characters quickly became friends (both to me and to one another) and their words transported me back to a time where good friends and laughs were hard to come by.
The novel is a fantastic work of fiction, but it takes place on a real island during the aftermath a very real war... it portrays a view of the war not often seen in the history books.
The characters quickly became friends (both to me and to one another) and their words transported me back to a time where good friends and laughs were hard to come by.
The novel is a fantastic work of fiction, but it takes place on a real island during the aftermath a very real war... it portrays a view of the war not often seen in the history books.
Helpful Score: 1
LOVED IT! Had it on the bookshelf for about a year and finally pulled it down to read. Once I started, I couldn't put it down. I love that it's written in letter format- depending on how much time you have you can read a little or a lot. Great characters. interesting subject matter- all around an excellent read!
Tiffany C. (jtcallaway) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 13 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Loved it! Really enjoyed the letters! It was a quick read and I was totally interested the whole time!!
Helpful Score: 1
Wonderful, charming book. It shows joy in the face of real loss, and starting over after great suffering.
Helpful Score: 1
By far, most engaging book of the year! Read it in 2 days, couldn't put it down! Must read.
Helpful Score: 1
This book was a really interesting read with many great characters.
Layers.
Loved it.
Layers.
Loved it.
Anna S. (annapi) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 334 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I was told by several people how wonderful this book is, and I finally got my hands on a copy. I am so glad it COMPLETELY lives up to its reputation! Written in epistolary format, this is the fascinating story of writer Juliet Ashton, who befriends through letters several interesting characters on Guernsey Island after World War II, and goes there to visit them for several weeks to interview them for their experiences during the German occupation of the Channel Islands. Funny, heartbreaking, captivating, delightful - this is a story about people and life, with something everyone can relate to. It's fighting for top spot on my list of favorites for the year.
Helpful Score: 1
An interesting way to tell a story...through letters. It was a fast, fun and eye-opening story. I had no idea about the German occupation in the small island of Gurnsey. While not a "war" story, it does capture the time and events while not being boring or depressing. I quite enjoyed it!
Helpful Score: 1
Loved loved LOVED this book. After about 2 pages it's impossible to put down. It had me laughing outloud, crying and gave such insights about the Second World War. Not a subject I would generally be intersested in. Written brilliantly in a unique style that allows you to put it down after a short read, but you won't want to.
Helpful Score: 1
I ordered this book because I'd read it with my book club and totally fell in love with it! I loved it so much, I shared it with my Mom, who also loved it! It is well written, with a good balance of humor and poignancy, almost like a comfortable conversation with a good friend. I'd highly recommend it!
Marla E. (buff) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 19 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I really am not sure what all the fuss is about with this book. I bought it for my mom and we read it at about the same time although we did not know we were. She told me much later that she tried hard to get into it, but she just couldn't connect. I also had a hard time, although I did plug through. It was slow and I thought it was just a bit boring. I really cannot say I enjoyed this book.
Helpful Score: 1
I belong to a book club and this was the pick for October. We all agreed we liked the book, the format of letters was interesting to all of us. Most of us now want to visit Guernsey!
Jeri G. (snugpug) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 32 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I LOVED this book; the characters are so great that I couldn't help but wish we were friends. An absolutely wonderful read!!
Helpful Score: 1
This is a wonderful heartwarming story of the Occupation of the Channel Islands, specifically the Isle of Guernsey, written immediately postwar. The characters are funny,warm and loveable. Proving again what a hearty,brave lot the English were.
It is a great weekend read.
It is a great weekend read.
Satisfying on every level, this book makes me want to visit Guernsey.
Linda S. (tchstroo) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 74 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This was a great book! I just finished it yesterday. Just about the only book I've read which caused me to laugh and cry in equal amounts.
Kathryn (Kmarie) -
Helpful Score: 1
What a magnficent book of letters! I came to love this book so much that I only allowed myself to read one letter per evening, until I could no longer stand it and gobbled it up at the end. It was well researched, and it truly feels as though the reader is living in the era spoken of in the letters. I felt joy and grief, hope and anticipation as I read these letters. The ending was most satisfying and a relief, as the reader begins to understand what is going on. The characters are all delightful and eccentric, and I want to live in Guernsey and be their friend. I want to know them all personally! Such a wonderful book, very highly recommended!
This was really good. Lots of history but with a story about friendship and love thrown in. Very easy read. I wasn't sure about the format - all in letters, but it really read easily and flowed nicely.
Kellee S. (mnvikesfan) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 5 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I LOVED this book. It is a very quick read with wonderful characters! I will definitely be telling my friends about this book!
Jill C. (lifelongbookworm) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 7 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a funny and heartwarming book that I think any lover of literature will enjoy. It is written as a series of letters between an author and her editor, the author's best friend who happens to be the editor's sister, and several inhabitants of the Isle of Guernsey, in the English Channel. It takes place just after the end of WWII, and is filled with many memorable characters. I highly recommend it.
Sherry R. (jadefrog) - , reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 4 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book is a gem! An English writer exchanges letters with
people on Guernsey (one of the Channel Islands)who describe the life of the village during German occupation in WWII.
She writes to her editor friend, her best friend--his sister, the American editor interested in her... yes, and they write back!Interesting, charming, sad, romantic... this story has it all.
people on Guernsey (one of the Channel Islands)who describe the life of the village during German occupation in WWII.
She writes to her editor friend, her best friend--his sister, the American editor interested in her... yes, and they write back!Interesting, charming, sad, romantic... this story has it all.
Helpful Score: 1
I really liked the letter/journal format, made for an quick read. Opened my eyes to a new part of the war other that the holocaust in Europe during that time. A little romance to keep the book light. Not a must read, but enjoyed the story.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Delightful, although it ended a bit abruptly, perhaps due to one of the author's illness. I loved it and recommend it highly.
This book was a refreshing perspective on things that went on during WWII. These are every-day people living in very unordinary times, finding friendship in unlikely places and a way to look at their circumstances with poignancy and humour.
Alice H. (read-to-me-gran) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 15 more book reviews
In spite of being "turned off" by the title, this was a sweet little book, easy to read and several of my friends had recommended it. The format is in letter form which I often do not find appealing. This time it was a good way to tell the story. Interesting characters, a part of the world not often used as the setting for a story. I think I would designate this a "chick flick" sort of book, not one many guys would find interesting even if it does refer to WW2 and describes the occupation of Guernsey by the Germans. Having just read "THe Postmistress" which is also set in the same time period and is based on the WW2 bombing of England, I found it interesting to compare the two stories. Not a great book but worth reading.
I really enjoyed this book and I wish there would be more. Colorful and engaging characters is what made this book so special.
Heather H. (jazzyheather) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 37 more book reviews
Loved, loved, loved this book! I was skeptical about reading a book full of letters, but after reading the fourth letter I was hooked and couldn't put it down. The characters in the book are amusing. Shaffer really took her time developing the characters and makes you fall in love with them and you can't wait to see what will happen next. This is a great summer read!
Kris L. (miss-info) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 386 more book reviews
When I first started the book I thought the letter format would be a distraction and I would not be able to get into the story. I was wrong! After the first few letters I was hooked, and grew increasingly more hooked as the book went on.
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
Linda D. (lindabird44) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 38 more book reviews
I enjoyed this book very much
A little bit of history and a lot of humanity. A quick read and very enjoyable.
Michele R. (englishtchr) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 15 more book reviews
TGLandPPPS is a marvelous book. While The Christian Science Book Monitor reviewer stated thats/he had never wanted to join a society to so much in his/her life, I found myself with a desperate longing to travel to the Channel Islands. Perhaps they are similar now as they were after WWII...one can dream. Epistolary novels are a favorite of mine, combined with a penchant toward WWII fiction and non-, I adored the characters, who were just eccentric enough to be believable. WONDERFUL read.
Karen K. (kkowert) -
How could a novel that contains only correspondence via letters be so engaging, heartrending and inspiring? I recommend you read this book to find out.
Through the fictional letters of the inhabitants of the island of Guernsey we learn of their struggles to survive the Nazi occupation of their island in World War II. There is a colorful cast of characters on the island and you are drawn into their stories and want to keep reading the letters to find out more about them. The letters contain tragic, heartbreaking accounts of the cruelty of war, as well as humorous and uplifting tales. I was moved by the everyday heroes in this book that came together in order to survive and thrive under the oppression of the German army.
The odd name of the book made we think twice about reading it, but the story behind the name is really clever and the entire book is an enjoyable, quick read.
Through the fictional letters of the inhabitants of the island of Guernsey we learn of their struggles to survive the Nazi occupation of their island in World War II. There is a colorful cast of characters on the island and you are drawn into their stories and want to keep reading the letters to find out more about them. The letters contain tragic, heartbreaking accounts of the cruelty of war, as well as humorous and uplifting tales. I was moved by the everyday heroes in this book that came together in order to survive and thrive under the oppression of the German army.
The odd name of the book made we think twice about reading it, but the story behind the name is really clever and the entire book is an enjoyable, quick read.
Margaret T. (megt) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 179 more book reviews
I liked this book a lot, the letter format was odd at first but then it reads really quickly. ETA, I have now read it twice and listened to the audio, I love this book, I would highly recommend.
I found it hard to get into this book at first and hard to keep track of the characters when I first picked up. It's unusual following a story through only personal letters. I actually gave up on the book once, which I rarely do. However, with the encouragement of a friend, I picked it up and finished it. I'm glad I did. It was worth the read.
Kellie K. (mightymarlin164) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 8 more book reviews
This book was recommended to me and I LOVED it! I made all my friends read it!!
I really enjoyed this book. The author makes you fall in love with characters.
this was a pleasantly suprising book-
A fun read about a serious moment in history. Great characters in a humorous tale, set in WWII. Lovable.
Jody J. (homeschoolmamaj) -
I enjoyed reading this book so much evan though it is a wartime tragedy. The story is cleverly written with great characters that you feel like are real by the time you are halfway through the book.
I loved this book. The characters were real and the story was fascinating. It revealed a part of WWII I was never aware of, and made it come alive. I have recommended this book often and will continue to do so.
One of the first books I have ever read TWICE in succession. Charming story written in a series of letters between heroine and others. Funny, Sad, great book. I am sorry that the author has died. She is wonderful.
Elaine K.
Elaine K.
This was an interesting book written as letters to different people. That style allowed me to get to know the people in the book.
Quick and enjoyable. I love historic fiction and this shed some light on a place and time I knew/know very little about. It gave me some of the same comforts I derive from re-reading Anne of Green Gables.
Penny F. (mrsfox) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 22 more book reviews
The characters were so life like. The style of writing made it very easy to finish this book in less than a day. Elizabeth Gilbert's review of the book was spot on when she called the novel smart and delightful and when she commented about forgetting (the characters) weren't (her) actual friends and neighbors. Loved this book!!!!
I loved this book. It is as simple as that. I was a bit confused at first as i have never read a book written in this style before and I thought that the preface consisted of letters to set up the story to come. I was absolutely enthralled from the beginning and it kept me hooked to the end. No sweeping romance, no breathtaking turns to the story, no heart stopping cliff hangers at the end of chapters. Just a consistent, strong, delightful story told in a charming way that will hold your attention and your heart.
Very enjoyable book and interesting subject.
Great historical fiction, which sheds some light on a different WWII experience in a beautifully person way.
Joanna H. (jrh1953) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 3 more book reviews
This is a great book. It is set in an era of WW2. The characters came to life. I was not ready for it to end. I have lent this to my mother.
It took me a while to get into this book. I'm not crazy about the letter format. By the time I got to the end I was enjoying it.
Great book. It is written a formath that I usually don't care for but this author pulls it off. The story is told through a series of letters. The characters are well-developed. What was amazing about this book was that the author wrote about a terrible time in our history and made the book light and witty but at the same time she honored the memories or events of the tragedy. Read it. You won't be disappointed.
Kris L. (miss-info) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 386 more book reviews
When I first started the book I thought the letter format would be a distraction and I would not be able to get into the story. I was wrong! After the first few letters I was hooked, and grew increasingly more hooked as the book went on.
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
This was a lovely book! I've recommended it to a number of friends. It brings to life a difficult and little known part of history and makes it heart warming and inspirational.
It started out hard to read because I had to get use to the letter style but once I got past that it is a great story.
Kris L. (miss-info) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 386 more book reviews
When I first started the book I thought the letter format would be a distraction and I would not be able to get into the story. I was wrong! After the first few letters I was hooked, and grew increasingly more hooked as the book went on.
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
I don't know why its a best-seller. The action rarely lifted from the light-weight correspondence among some mostly love-sick letter-writers and the reader didn't get nearly enough time with the members of the "Society."
Jenny C. (thehungrybrain) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 26 more book reviews
Oh wow. This book. I swear, I had it on my list because at one point, I read the premise and thought it might be cool to read, but even when I checked it out of the library, I kind of left it for last, because it was in the form of letters. Eh, thought I. Im not too big on that style.
What I was missing! Id read this book again, no problem. Im thinking of buying it.
Its so sweet, and funny and REAL. It deals with the letters to and from this writer Juliet, after the end of WWII. Shes British and an avid letter writer. She writes a few letters, but the book takes off when she gets a chance letter from a man on the Isle of Guernsey, off the coast of France, who is asking her about a book she sold to a used bookstore once.
Its moving, and poignant, and funny and sweet.
All in all, Im really glad that I read this book.
What I was missing! Id read this book again, no problem. Im thinking of buying it.
Its so sweet, and funny and REAL. It deals with the letters to and from this writer Juliet, after the end of WWII. Shes British and an avid letter writer. She writes a few letters, but the book takes off when she gets a chance letter from a man on the Isle of Guernsey, off the coast of France, who is asking her about a book she sold to a used bookstore once.
Its moving, and poignant, and funny and sweet.
All in all, Im really glad that I read this book.
Very good read. It was a little hard to get into at first because the books is written through letters between characters. Once you get into the book though, it is a delightful story.
Jami H. (howell27) - , reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 50 more book reviews
I adored this book and I'm very sorry I let my sister steal my copy. This is a book you will want to keep and re-read. I wished I could have gone to Guernsey to meet each one of the letter writers or have them as your neighbors. The author made you fall in love with each of those Society members.
I generally don't like books written as a series of letters or even really like when a long correspondence is included in a book, but the way these letters are written is amazing and each one draws you more deeply into the story. I've read a lot of fiction/nonfiction dealing with World War II, but never have seen that time dealt with as it was in this book. Seeing the events unfold through the eyes of the different letter writers was very moving. And despite all the horror and tragedy that happened during the war, these are very much 'glass is half full' people. The romance is predictable but good for all that. This is a book that will leave you with a smile in your heart. I'm going to have to buy another copy of this book to keep and re-read.
I generally don't like books written as a series of letters or even really like when a long correspondence is included in a book, but the way these letters are written is amazing and each one draws you more deeply into the story. I've read a lot of fiction/nonfiction dealing with World War II, but never have seen that time dealt with as it was in this book. Seeing the events unfold through the eyes of the different letter writers was very moving. And despite all the horror and tragedy that happened during the war, these are very much 'glass is half full' people. The romance is predictable but good for all that. This is a book that will leave you with a smile in your heart. I'm going to have to buy another copy of this book to keep and re-read.
I picked up the book a few times and wasn't sure it was for me. My sister said give it a chance and sure enough I was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed the book immensely. A great insight into life after immediately following WWII in London and Guernsey.
A fast read full of warm characters...set during WWII and loosely based on actaul event of which I knew nothing about until I read this. Delightfully funny.. I grew to love the characters in this book.
Kris L. (miss-info) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 386 more book reviews
When I first started the book I thought the letter format would be a distraction and I would not be able to get into the story. I was wrong! After the first few letters I was hooked, and grew increasingly more hooked as the book went on.
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
This was a delightful, addictive book!
Lindsey B. (linzeroni) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 4 more book reviews
I enjoy WWII books and holocaust stories. Although this fits the time and the characters dealt with the diffculties of Occupation, the book was different than most. There was a humor in the book that it not usually associated with books on this topic.
Shannon M. (mrsmeyer618) -
Well written, great characters, fascinating historical context. You will want to book the next flight to Guernsey as soon as you finish!
Susan S. (suzibrooke) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 20 more book reviews
Engaging and informative. Some of the characters, however, seemed a little TOO good to be true. But all things considered, it lived up to the hype. I had not realized the people of the Channel Islands had suffered so much during WW2. And I enjoyed the letter format.
an interesting group of people share a part of history. you will laugh and you will cry.
I just didnt care for it. I tried and finally gave up before finishing.
Pamela D. (padonato) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 18 more book reviews
Loved it! The characters are fun and quirky. The story is moving and emotional. Highly recommend it.
This was an amazing book. We discussed it in a Book Group, to which I belong, and everyone loved it.
This is a book that teaches history, in a fascinating way. It details the occupation by the Germans of Guernsey Island during WWII, through a series of letters written after the end of the war.
The characters are interesting people, that you would like to know, and about whom you care. I highly recommend this book.
This is a book that teaches history, in a fascinating way. It details the occupation by the Germans of Guernsey Island during WWII, through a series of letters written after the end of the war.
The characters are interesting people, that you would like to know, and about whom you care. I highly recommend this book.
Kris L. (miss-info) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 386 more book reviews
When I first started the book I thought the letter format would be a distraction and I would not be able to get into the story. I was wrong! After the first few letters I was hooked, and grew increasingly more hooked as the book went on.
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
I absolutely loved this book. By the time I finished reading I had experienced just about every emotion. Fell in love with each character - and that doesn't happen to me a lot!
Alayna R. (arichlen) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 9 more book reviews
I LOVED this book...and I love the title! Fun title. Fun characters. Heart-warming. Great read!
So many sweet and wonderful characters. I wanted the story to keep going because I was not ready to give them up. Wonderful read!
This book was much better than I expected. I thought it was going to be only light-hearted and easy reading. Instead, the author did a really good job weaving the letters together, so that I would term this literature instead of just "fiction."
Great story; very interesting to the end.
Great story; very interesting to the end.
Susan P. (susy-knitter) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 3 more book reviews
One of the best books I have every read, read it twice already and know I will read it again.
I really enjoyed this book. Wonderful characters, some humor, a love story and a history lesson of post WWII in England, all revealed through letters! I give it 5 stars!
Like very expensive chocolate...rich yet delicate, soul-satisfying yet leaves you wishing the story would continue on and on. A simply delightful read.
Christine (luvmygem) -
I wasn't quite sure what to expect with this book, so at first when I realized the novel was entirely in the form of letters written between the various characters I was a bit disappointed. I thought it would not keep my interest as much as a traditional story or narrative would. However, just a few pages in, I was hooked. It's a fascinating story, complete with humor, drama, romance, suspense, sorrow and a good dose of history to make it all seem so real. Reminds me a lot of Fannie Flagg's writing, particular "The Weems Weekly" selections in Fried Green Tomatoes - if you enjoy Fannie Flagg, you'll enjoy this book.
Kris L. (miss-info) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 386 more book reviews
When I first started the book I thought the letter format would be a distraction and I would not be able to get into the story. I was wrong! After the first few letters I was hooked, and grew increasingly more hooked as the book went on.
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
I really enjoyed this book. It is easy to read and easy to follow the plot. From a historical fiction point of view I did learn a lot about what it was like living in an occupied area.
Christina S. (tinaschmidt) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 4 more book reviews
This is one of the best books I have read in a long time. Very witty, engaging and good to the very last drop. It doesn't disappoint in any aspect (except it is too short, I WANT MORE!)
Tracey R. (tratz) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 102 more book reviews
I didn't think I would like this book as much as I did. It had loveable, quircky characters, a deep meaningful plot with an outside story. It came together beautifully and I really enjoyed it.
Loved the book. It has real heart. The characters were well developed.
Taryn C. (TarynC) -
Loved this book, I enjoyed the technique of using correspondence between the characters, you could hear their voices in their words. It was light and entertaining - a great book club selection
Melissa B. (melissaab) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 38 more book reviews
I loved this book! It was so interesting and I really enjoyed it
Michele K. (michelek) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 16 more book reviews
Excellent book. I love the letter format. One of the best books I've read in a LONG time...
This is one of the best books I've read. The writing is charming, even when some of the topics discuss war. The characters are well described and all interesting.
This was one of the most enjoyable "light" reads I've read in a long time! Characters are fascinating, book is very well-written and engaging, and the plot is delightful. This is definitely going on my "gifts to others" list!
I read this book quite some time ago and have just given it up in a swap. I remember that I really enjoyed it and liked the ending, BUT not so much that I had kept more than a vague recollection of its contents. It was, however, one of those books that at first I didn't expect to like and then did, so I'm giving it 4&1/2 stars.
Robin M. (robinmy) -
Shortly after the end of World War II, writer Juliet Ashton is looking for a subject for her new book. She receives a letter from a man who lives on the Isle of Guernsey. He found her name in a book and wrote to ask her about it. She begins a correspondence with him and several others on the island who tell about their lives in Guernsey during the war.
I heard a lot of good things about this book, so I thought I'd give it a try. I listened to over two hours of the audiobook and wasn't even sure what the story was about. The whole story is letters. Though some of the letters were amusing, I was having a hard time following the story. This book wasn't for me. My rating: DNF.
I heard a lot of good things about this book, so I thought I'd give it a try. I listened to over two hours of the audiobook and wasn't even sure what the story was about. The whole story is letters. Though some of the letters were amusing, I was having a hard time following the story. This book wasn't for me. My rating: DNF.
Frank H. (perryfran) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 1229 more book reviews
Very enjoyable novel written in the form of letters (epistolary novel). I wasn't sure at first if I would like this form of writing (I had never read another epistolary novel) but as I got into it, it turned out to be very unique and quite enjoyable. The story is about a writer named Juliet who receives a letter in 1946 from a stranger from Guernsey (one of the Channel Islands between England and France) after finding her name and address in a second-hand book by Charles Lamb. The stranger's name is Dawsey Adams, who is a farmer on Guernsey and is also one of the founders of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, a literary book club on the island. He asks for the name of a bookshop in London so that he can obtain more writings by Charles Lamb. Juliet is intrigued by the letter and wants to use the literary club for an article she is supposed to write for the newspaper. Well this leads to a series of letters between the often quirky residents of Guernsey and Juliet. Juliet finds out that the literary society was originally formed as a ruse to hide a pig-bake from the Germans who occupied Guernsey during WWII. The novel consists solely of letters between Juliet, the Guernsey residents, and her other friends residing in London including her publisher, Sidney. Juliet eventually visits Guernsey and falls in love with the place and its people.
This was mostly a very enjoyable look at Guernsey and its residents after they had suffered through five years of occupation by German forces. But the novel does deal with some very bleak sides of this occupation including heart-wrenching descriptions of German concentration camps where some of the Guernsey residents were sent for various infractions. The book was also full of literary references related to the books the society were reading. There was also a quirky tale of a visit from Oscar Wilde and letters he wrote to one of the residents. Overall, a very likable, pleasant, and satisfying read.
There is also a 2018 movie based on this novel that is currently showing on Netflix. I'll be watching it soon.
This was mostly a very enjoyable look at Guernsey and its residents after they had suffered through five years of occupation by German forces. But the novel does deal with some very bleak sides of this occupation including heart-wrenching descriptions of German concentration camps where some of the Guernsey residents were sent for various infractions. The book was also full of literary references related to the books the society were reading. There was also a quirky tale of a visit from Oscar Wilde and letters he wrote to one of the residents. Overall, a very likable, pleasant, and satisfying read.
There is also a 2018 movie based on this novel that is currently showing on Netflix. I'll be watching it soon.
Gwen B. (gwendalou) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 6 more book reviews
Great book full of quirky characters. The book is a collection of letters the various characters write back and forth to each other. It takes place just after the war, although it does flash back to some events that took place during the war. The really wonderful characters are what made the book special to me.
Mary B. (marybeth) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 37 more book reviews
If you enjoy history blended with storytelling this is a perfect book. Well researched with laugh out loud moments balanced with hard realities makes a moment history come alive.
Robine S. (robine4206) -
I enjoyed this book. It was a quick easy read and provided a different view point to World War II. I remember from high school history that the islands off the French coast were occupied by German troops during World War II but I never really thought about how it affected the locals. This book opened a whole new discussion at book group about the Germany army and their interaction with the local people. There is so much literature available about the Holocaust that sometimes you become so involved with that one aspect of the war that you forget other people were also affected. I enjoyed this book and found the discussion at my book club stimulating. The book discussed the hardships the people on one small island faced while being occupied and how that occupied force reacted to the local community.
Funny, sweet and sentimental but with a bit of backbone. A fascinating story about a largely overlooked part of WW2 history - the German ocupation of Guernsey. Definite must-read for fans of Maisie Dobbs, both for the strong female leads and the themes of human resilience.
Kathleen A. (readbird) -
This was a surprise! I started it thinking "I won't like this," but ended up thinking "I'm so glad I listened to the advice that I'd probably like it." I loved it! I believe it ended too quickly. I wanted more!!!
Jean M. (lifelonglearner) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 13 more book reviews
I've never enjoyed a book of letters as much as this one. Usually I don't care for that format. It made it easy to get to know the characters - who they were, what kind of people they were, how they thought, spoke, etc. Couldn't put it down!
Lynn N. (thebookcrosser) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 16 more book reviews
Story unfolds through letters, allowing each characters' POV to shine while maintaining a central POV to anchor the story (the person to whom most of the letters are directed). Absolutely excellent, unique storyline revealing characters you come to love and gently raising the reader's consciousness about the effect of WWII on the residents of Guernsey Island. Highly recommend this one. Couldn't put it down.
Lisa O. (lisaost) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 10 more book reviews
Great book!
Leslie R. (darcy0207) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 44 more book reviews
A delightful book. Now I would love to visit Guernsey. The author discusses what life was like on the island during the German occupation in WWII. The people she talks with had created a book reading club as a chance to get together.
Caroline H. (cottonmouthfan) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 11 more book reviews
I wasn't sure that I would enjoy this book. The idea of reading a collection of letters was very different and somewhat daunting. However, this book is a delight. The story is riveting and the format makes it easy to stop and start without losing the thread (not that you will want to stop reading!).
Enjoyed this book. Some of the descriptions of the war period were difficult, but it was nice to have a balance with the lighter side of the (relationship) story. It made it not too heavy to read.
This was a great book, I did not want it to end.
This is a fantastic, interesting and very quick read. I absolutely love the characters in this book and my only complaint is that I wish it were longer.
Wonderful book! The delightful story is told through the correspondence of an English author, her editor and friends, and a variety of individuals who endured the German occupation of the island of Guernsey during WWII. Woven through historical events and filled with fascinating characters, this book had me engaged from the beginning. Couldn't recommend it more!
Teresa S. (teresatls) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 4 more book reviews
Love books like this
Taryn C. (TarynC) -
AT first I wondered if I would like this book, the title is a bit strange. While I dont think it will win any prizes for fantastic literature, it was a sweet book with a very interesting format. You will fall in love with the characters and their "letters".
Love, Love, Love this book! Simply Lovely! I loved the History that I learned and it just warmed my heart all over the place. Highly recommended!
Jillian S. (SillyJilly24) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 9 more book reviews
I love love love this book! I think this might be my favorite book I have ever read. The characters draw you in and it feels like you know them. Amazing read!
Pat O. (PatinCO) - , reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 21 more book reviews
A delightful book to read!!! Not something I usually read. The characters came alive and although the authors didn't go into great depth about their lives, it was enough to make you feel you knew them. Made me want to journey to the Channel Islands.
Written in letters to characters in the book encompassing the time after WWII and flashing back to what those on the island endured during the war.
Written in letters to characters in the book encompassing the time after WWII and flashing back to what those on the island endured during the war.
Great book! Easy read and enjoyable. I highly recommend it =)
Krista T. (tolkeinfan) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 3 more book reviews
Very enjoyable, and sometimes sober, read.
Kris L. (miss-info) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 386 more book reviews
When I first started the book I thought the letter format would be a distraction and I would not be able to get into the story. I was wrong! After the first few letters I was hooked, and grew increasingly more hooked as the book went on.
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
Jackelyn G. (jgolden) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 3 more book reviews
A wonderfully woven story, enchanting all the way through. I wish there was more!
Nadine (23dollars) -
This was the bonus book this month in my online book club The Reading Cove. I'm sorry, but I wasn't that big a fan. Though it was an interesting view of the German occupation of Guernsey during the war, the epistolary style here made the story very dry and boring for me. It did pick up at the 150 page mark, when Juliet actually traveled to Guernsey and we learn what happened with Elizabeth, but then it quickly flatlined again through to the end. I was literally yawning.
I think I would've enjoyed this more had it been in a traditional style from the different characters points of view. I'm not sorry I read it, but can't go higher than a B-/C+.
I think I would've enjoyed this more had it been in a traditional style from the different characters points of view. I'm not sorry I read it, but can't go higher than a B-/C+.
Great book.
Fantastic! You will fall in love with the characters. The format is different so start over if you get confused
This is one of my all time favorite books. I loved the style it was written in and just thoroughly enjoyed the characters.
Very interesting! If you can get through the one dull part you will find that it is a very good story and you learn alot too!
Pamela C. (pj-s-bookcorner) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 885 more book reviews
Wasn't sure what to expect when I started this book. Turns out I loved it. The Guernsey Island, off the English & French coasts, was occupied during WWII by the Germans. This book covers life on the island during "The Occupation" and afterward - told entirely through correspondence between the main characters. What a lovely book dealing with a difficult topic. Focuses on what they did to get by and the love and hope that got them through. I thoroughly recommend this book!
I truly enjoyed this unique book and learned a lot as well. I wish I had checked out "Occupation of the Channel Islands" at Wikipedia before I read it, instead of after!
This book lived up to all the wonderful reviews I've read. I fell in love with the characters and truly didn't want the end to come. A great read!
Lisa H. (prudishbunion) -
I had a hard time getting into this book, and had actually packed it in once several months ago. I was pressured by my mother to give it another try...she said it was well worth it. She was right! The story is told through letters written back and forth between the characters. This made it difficult to keep the characters straight for the first thirty or so pages. After that, I could not put the book down and finished it two days of summer vacation.
Historical fiction, WWII, German occupation of Guernsey...great read!
Historical fiction, WWII, German occupation of Guernsey...great read!
Kris L. (miss-info) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 386 more book reviews
When I first started the book I thought the letter format would be a distraction and I would not be able to get into the story. I was wrong! After the first few letters I was hooked, and grew increasingly more hooked as the book went on.
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
I saw the Masterpiece Theater Mini-series Island at War before I read the book, so I could see the island in my mind's eye as I read. I strongly recommend pairing the movie with the book; two different stories about German occupation of the channel islands, both very well done.
(Island at War is on Netflix)
Daneal C. (gypsydani) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 74 more book reviews
In January of 1946 writer Juliet Ashton receives a letter from a stranger, a founding member of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. Juliet is intrigued by the letter and is soon corresponding with people on the island who tell her about the society and how reading helped them during the German Occupation. Before long juliet is determined to go to the Island and tell the story of what happened during the war years. The story is told in a series of letters between the people involved and introduces the reader to some fascinating albeit quirky people. The book made me smile often, laugh out loud a few times and shed tears as the story enfolded. I highly recommend it.
Colleen A. (cedarbend) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 11 more book reviews
This little book was very charming, but I wouldn't rave about it as some have done. It seems to me that it would get a bit tiresome constantly being as witty as Juliet was. It would be like constantly being "on". The author(s) did a good job of moving between the different characters and their voices, but they all had that little touch of "preciousness". I am glad I read it, it was enjoyable and I looked forward to seeing what would happen next, but I think some of the reviews are a little overdone.
A charming and quick-moving tale told through letters between an author, her editor and the friends she makes on Guernsey just after WWII.
EJ V. (bookgal7) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 48 more book reviews
This book is a lot of fun. I really got into it and found myself wanting to read more. But that is why i am even more disappointed that the ending seemed wrapped up too quickly and easily. It is still a great read, but the ending did seem like an easy way for the author to find a finish.
Adore this book. Read a library copy and actually had to get one to send to my Mom! I think she will love it as much as I do!
Good, light read. A hit with all in my bookclub.
I really liked this book - even though the point of view narration was quiet different and is usually not my favorite, I found myself enjoying it very much.
I loved this book and will read it again. I almost never do that. Heartwarming, well written and it taught me a history lesson also!
Tonya M. (heyteacher-tpm) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 35 more book reviews
I absolutely loved this book. As a selection for our local book club, I had no idea what type of book I was getting into, other than the description "epistolary" from our club leader. That made me feel a little cautious to begin with, as I usually do not like that format, but was pleasantly surprised and hooked by about page 2!
The plot has been outlined here already - suffice it to say that by the time I reached the end of this wonderful, wonderful story, I didn't want it to end. I want to know what further adventures befall the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society - I want to know what they read and how their future discussions go! I want to read more about each and every single one of the characters - there is not a one that isn't entertaining, although there are a few that are not well-liked! Those may have been among my favorites. :)
I encourage anyone and everyone to read this great book. It will have you laughing out loud, tearing up and learning so much, along with the pure enjoyment of the reading. A note to those who take my advice - Look out for Adalaide Addison (Miss)!
The plot has been outlined here already - suffice it to say that by the time I reached the end of this wonderful, wonderful story, I didn't want it to end. I want to know what further adventures befall the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society - I want to know what they read and how their future discussions go! I want to read more about each and every single one of the characters - there is not a one that isn't entertaining, although there are a few that are not well-liked! Those may have been among my favorites. :)
I encourage anyone and everyone to read this great book. It will have you laughing out loud, tearing up and learning so much, along with the pure enjoyment of the reading. A note to those who take my advice - Look out for Adalaide Addison (Miss)!
Interesting book written in letters. Lots of research was done to make it come to life.
I gave this book a 4.5 star rating because I don't believe that anything is perfect except God. This book comes as close as a writer can get. It has humor, horror, compassion, tears and laughter but most of all a true sense of caring during a time when most people would be thinking only of their own survival. I have read this book three times and will probably read it a hundred more. It's destined to be a classic and survive the centuries.
I loved this book! It's not very often that I become so involved in a book that I begin to feel like I know the people in it. This book did that and so much more. Read this book!
Tara S. (Tara35) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 10 more book reviews
This was a touching book regarding German Occupation on the island of Guernsey during WWII and the story of how people rebuilt their lives after the war was over. THe characters are true people, the letters are written beautifully, and the story is engaging. I recommend this book to people who enjoy light historical, with a bit of romance thrown in the mix. A definite keeper for my bookshelf.
Mary B. (booksrfun) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 15 more book reviews
Loved it! Loved characters! Especially Isola. Highly recommend. It was both historically interesting as well as very entertaining.
Loved this book! A sweet story, but with lots of depth. Definetely recommend it!
Nancy L. (NancyAZ) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 95 more book reviews
3.5 stars. This was my second time reading this book as my book club picked it for this month. It was a 3.5 star rating for me nine years ago and it is the same today.
I liked learning/remembering little tidbits of the German occupation of the island of Guernsey during World War II and I think I would love to visit there some day but the story was just okay for me. I don't care for the format of the whole book being told through letters. It felt flat.
I liked learning/remembering little tidbits of the German occupation of the island of Guernsey during World War II and I think I would love to visit there some day but the story was just okay for me. I don't care for the format of the whole book being told through letters. It felt flat.
Debra M. (Deb1225) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 9 more book reviews
This easy-to-read but charming book takes readers through the experiences of inhabitants of the Channel Island of Guernsey during and after their occupation by German soldiers during WWII. Told exclusively through the correspondence of characters, the story offers many perspectives and many voices as it unfolds. I liked it so well I gave it to friends and family members for Christmas.
Wow - what a story
Leola C. (swamponkeymom) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 353 more book reviews
never read a book written quite like this before. Didn't think I was going to be able to get into it at first. But keep reading as a lovely story evolves around character who endured war taken over thier homes and lives.
Amazing! This book pulls you in from the first sentence. The letter format takes some getting used to, but after the first two or three, you will be hooked! Highly recommend!
Marcia S. (busterboomer) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 96 more book reviews
I loved this book!!! The time period would be when my parents were growing up. The format was different--in the form of letters written back and forth to people. Also, the type of life at that time was completely different from today. This was at a time with no type of advanced technology or hectic schedules. It was a time when people had time to get to know other people. It was more relaxing to read. I recommend it!!!
Cameron B. (cameron55) -
I almost didn't read this book because of the title, I tend not to like books with cutesy titles, someone whole opinion I respected told me to read it and I'm glad she did, this is one of those books with unforgettable characters. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society was formed when some of the Guernsey Island residents were caught out late one night after curfew by the Germans occupying the island and thus this book club is formed and it isn't until the war is done and a chance letter from one of the residents to Juliet because he found her name in a copy of poems by Charles Lamb. You will laugh and you will cry and sometimes you will do both but you won't forget this book.
Cindy C. (CD0927) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 39 more book reviews
This was a wonderfully moving story about life in Guernsey during Nazi Occupation & of how life continues after the horrors of war. Best book I've read so far this year.
Ruby J. (rubys-reads) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 9 more book reviews
I really loved this book even though I did not expect to. A must read!
Nancy M. (photophatty67) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 19 more book reviews
A delightful story of a community of people who banded together during the most difficult time of their lives during the end of WWII and the German occupation and the writing relationship between a lively, female journalist who is writing their story...and how that correspondence turns into so much more. A wonderful read and an eye-opening history lesson about which few of us know.
Kitty S. (kittynewengland) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 116 more book reviews
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a charming novel that unfolds completely in letters and telegrams written to and from the main characters. The reader learns a lot about the hardships faced by the inhabitants of the Channel Islands during World War II. The story is also about resilience, friendship, love and literature. The characters in the book are as memorable and unique as the book's title. Highly recommended.
Leslie S. (inkwell) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 6 more book reviews
Absolutely loved this. All the rave reviews were right - this book is a delight. An entire book written in letters isn't a new concept, but it is extremely well done here. The main characters are fleshed out well enough that you get a good feel for who they are. The plot is, at heart, a love story, but with so much more going on that it falls easily into the category of historical fiction. I had no idea what/who/where Guernsey was before I read this book and learning of its history thru this delightful tale was one of the best reading experiences I've had in years. I was sad when it came to an end and very sorry to learn that the author is no longer with us to write more of these. I want a whole series of Guernsey books, but re-reading this one once a year will have to do.
This book really opened my eyes to life in England during WWII. I had no idea that life was so difficult, and yet, this book has humor and poignancy.
Pat D. (pat0814) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 379 more book reviews
This book is truly a treasure, and I will remember the characters and the setting with great nostalgia. The epistolary form is absolutely perfect for conveying the warmth, compassion and kindness of the characters. Guernsey was occupied by the Germans during WWII and we see the courage that enabled these special people in Guernsey to deal with their oppressors. Juliet's presence among them and their memories of Elizabeth make this a not-to-be-missed book.
Jamie V. (jamiev) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 19 more book reviews
Excellent book!
Patricia P. (avilagal) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 6 more book reviews
ENJOYED READING THIS BOOK SO MUCH! IT'S DEFINITELY A 'MUST READ' FOR
ANYONE WHO VALUES WELL-WRITTEN LITERATURE.
ANYONE WHO VALUES WELL-WRITTEN LITERATURE.
Barbara P. (gotchagal) -
Just marvelous. "A jewel...Poignant and keenly observed. Guernsey is a small masterpiece about love, war, and the unmeasurable sustenance to be found in good books and good friends."...People
"A sparkling epistolary novel radiating wit, lightly worn condition and written with great assurance and aplomb."...The Sunday Times, London.
"A book-lover's delight. An implicit and sometimes explicit paean to all things literary."--Chicago Sun-Times
"I can't remember the last time I discovered a novel as smart and delightful as this one, a world so vivid that I kept forgetting this was a work of fiction populated with characters so utterly wonderful that I kept forgetting they weren't my actual friends and neighbors. Treat yourself to this book, please. I can't recommend it highly enough."---Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, Love.
NAMED ONE OF THE TEN BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY TIME AND USA TODAY.
SELECTED AS ONE OF THE BEST NOVELS OF THE YEAR BY GOOD MORNING AMERICA-THE EARLY SHOW-THE WASHINGTON POST BOOK WORLD-THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE MONITOR-SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICAL-PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE-RICHMOND TIMES-DISPATCH-LIBRARY JOURNAL-THE MIAMI HERALD-NEW ORLEANS TIMES-PICAYUNE
I just loved this book. All I can say is READ IT! You will get caught up in it and be sad to see it end. The first thing I thought when I finished it (in one day, staying up until the middle of the night), was how soon could I read it again?
"A sparkling epistolary novel radiating wit, lightly worn condition and written with great assurance and aplomb."...The Sunday Times, London.
"A book-lover's delight. An implicit and sometimes explicit paean to all things literary."--Chicago Sun-Times
"I can't remember the last time I discovered a novel as smart and delightful as this one, a world so vivid that I kept forgetting this was a work of fiction populated with characters so utterly wonderful that I kept forgetting they weren't my actual friends and neighbors. Treat yourself to this book, please. I can't recommend it highly enough."---Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, Love.
NAMED ONE OF THE TEN BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY TIME AND USA TODAY.
SELECTED AS ONE OF THE BEST NOVELS OF THE YEAR BY GOOD MORNING AMERICA-THE EARLY SHOW-THE WASHINGTON POST BOOK WORLD-THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE MONITOR-SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICAL-PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE-RICHMOND TIMES-DISPATCH-LIBRARY JOURNAL-THE MIAMI HERALD-NEW ORLEANS TIMES-PICAYUNE
I just loved this book. All I can say is READ IT! You will get caught up in it and be sad to see it end. The first thing I thought when I finished it (in one day, staying up until the middle of the night), was how soon could I read it again?
Cindy S. (mamacindy) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 34 more book reviews
Great book!!
Wendi B. (bakerwendiw) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 69 more book reviews
Loved It! I really nice, easy read where the characters pull you in. I felt like a friend of these characters and couldn't put the book down. I highly recommend it.
Michele K. (mima6) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 5 more book reviews
I was hooked by page 5. Written as a series of letters, the book takes us to 1946 and looks back on the history of what happened on German-occupied Guernsey during WWII. It's filled w/ great characters, humor, pathos and love. It reminded me of a BBC Masterpiece production. They need to start casting immediately!
This is an EXCELLENT book. Loved it.
Betty O. (wvflatlander) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 86 more book reviews
Absolutely loved it! Want to go to Guernsey tomorrow!
My only question is why I waited so long to read this!
I started, and really had a rouogh time stopping long enough to do mundane things like sleep or go to work.
Set in the "epistlatory" style, a series of letters between many folks, and we watch the story unfold, AND relive the horrorsof the German occupation of Guernsey during World War 2. Happily for me, it is in the past, so we know things are now fine, but we do experience some tragedy as it happens. All in all, probaby one of the two best contemporary novels I've read in the alst several years!
I started, and really had a rouogh time stopping long enough to do mundane things like sleep or go to work.
Set in the "epistlatory" style, a series of letters between many folks, and we watch the story unfold, AND relive the horrorsof the German occupation of Guernsey during World War 2. Happily for me, it is in the past, so we know things are now fine, but we do experience some tragedy as it happens. All in all, probaby one of the two best contemporary novels I've read in the alst several years!
Laura R. (isitfriday) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 170 more book reviews
i could not get into this book at all, it had such great reviews, but i found it confusing, boring and did not look forward to picking it up. There is nothing I enjoy more that a book i can not put down.. this was one i could not pick up!
Fran T. (knittingfran) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 13 more book reviews
Loved the book even though it's not my favorite style
A charming, quick read. History-lite re: german occupation of Guernsey. Delightful story.
Catherine C. (c-squared) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 181 more book reviews
I liked this book and enjoyed reading it, but...
I feel the author was a little heavy-handed in passing along information via letters (which is the form the novel takes), i.e. reminding characters of things they've done in the past.
The ending feels inconsistent with the rest of the book, due to the sudden addition of a new conflict and focus on romance that reminded me of Bridget Jones's Diary. I liked BJD, but I felt like this book was trying to be something more...was something more, until the overly cutesy end to wrap it up.
This is the second book I've read about Guernsey. The first was The Book of Lies: A Novel. Both have left me wanting to know more about this strange, charming little island with such a dark history.
I feel the author was a little heavy-handed in passing along information via letters (which is the form the novel takes), i.e. reminding characters of things they've done in the past.
The ending feels inconsistent with the rest of the book, due to the sudden addition of a new conflict and focus on romance that reminded me of Bridget Jones's Diary. I liked BJD, but I felt like this book was trying to be something more...was something more, until the overly cutesy end to wrap it up.
This is the second book I've read about Guernsey. The first was The Book of Lies: A Novel. Both have left me wanting to know more about this strange, charming little island with such a dark history.
Marge B. (muggy) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 24 more book reviews
This book is wonderful. Read it don't listen to it as it is told in a series of letters. It kept me interested the whole time and was just very good. One of those books you don't forget.
Pat D. (pat0814) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 379 more book reviews
This book is truly a treasure, and I will remember the characters and the setting with great nostalgia. The epistolary form is absolutely perfect for conveying the warmth, compassion and kindness of the characters. Guernsey was occupied by the Germans during WWII and we see the courage that enabled these special people in Guernsey to deal with their oppressors. Juliet's presence among them and their memories of Elizabeth make this a not-to-be-missed book.
I think this would be a good book for someone who knows nothing about WW2 history or the occupation of the Channel Islands. It was well written, but it held no surprises for me. It's also been dramatized well in Enemy at the Door.
For books about bookies, I prefer Helene Hanff's 84 Charing Cross.
For books about bookies, I prefer Helene Hanff's 84 Charing Cross.
Diane S. (dyyan) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 8 more book reviews
I couldn't put this book down, I had to find out what happened! I wish it went on forever!
84 Charing Cross Road meets Daddy-Long-Legs meets the Lorna Landvik books - more Landvik than the other two. Light on plot, heavy on sweet, this story told as a series of letters is charming but breaks little new ground apart from documenting the privations of WWII for the residents of the occupied Channel Islands. Nothing new here...but an easy, satisfying afternoon's read. You won't *completely* regret having put the time into reading this.
Judy D. (maxkitty) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 6 more book reviews
I didn't finish this one -- just couldn't get interested!!
Suzanne S. (sslowe) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 80 more book reviews
Absolutely loved this book...I style was very different, in that it was letters between the author and other characters, but it told the entire story so well...you didn't need to know what went on in between to get the entire picture.
Lisa G. (plum-marie) -
Amazing! I loved it. I really didn't think I'd like a book set around war time but it was genius to write the entire book as letters. I felt as though I knew the characters in the book and longed to join their literary society. I had no desire to try the Potato Peel Pie though :) Great book, I want to read it all over again and "hear" the characters talk to each other and feel as though I am part of the conversation again.
I truly enjoyed this book. I like that the book was written in letter format. I liked it because it was unique.
This book taught me something history books failed to teach me in school: there was actual British soil occupied by the Nazis during WW II. Guernsey, a small island off the coast of Southern England was occupied for 5 years.
This story begins right after the war. Juliet, a London writer and journalist is looking for some new material. She finds it in the form of correspondences with people from Guernsey. Dawsey, a Guernsey resident and survivor of the war, is one of the founders of the literary group. The group formed out of sheer survival instinct. One day Dawsey, Elizabeth, and a few other residents break curfew and are caught. Elizabeth lies to the Germans on the spot, and says that she and her friends hadnt noticed time pass as they were in a book group discussing German literature. The soldier lets them go and Elizabeth convinces everyone to get their hands on any book they can find and meet up regularly at their neighbors house just in case the soldiers decide to follow up on her story. They do just that and find solace in the books they read, and in the friendship and support they find in one another.
Where does the Potato Peel in groups name come from? Since food was very hard to come by, especially sweets, one of the group members figured out a way to make a mashed potato type of pie and sweetened it with beet juice (I think). This is what members ate during meet-ups.
Dawsey, a fan of Charles Lamb, finds a book with Juliets name and address on it. He reaches out to her in hopes that she can send him another book by Lamb. His letter explains the hardship residents have had to deal with during the war and Juliet shares hers as well. Soon after, Juliet decides that the residents of the island are the story and she begins to correspond with them about their war experiences.
The first third of the book really dives into the residents and their personal experiences with the war. The wartime recollections capture the desperation and deprivation of the time. The author loses the thread a bit, and the second third, and the heart of the story, is how most of the members-- most of which never had an interest in reading, find a connection with a text or author a connection which makes their existence on the war-torn island bearable. Although Elizabeths positive influence on each of the members is mentioned throughout the whole story, the last third provides us with her own back-story, and how her kindnesses have helped everyone cope and see that there is a silver lining in all of this. Most of all, she helps Juliet center herself and recognize what is most important in her own life.
I think the book started out very strong and then tapered off into a bit of fluff. I havent been as forgiving of this trait in other books Ive read - somehow it just works for this one. Maybe its because of the subject matter. Wartime is so raw and devastating that one looks forward to sweetness and light at the end of it all. I cant quite place my finger on where or how the book lost steam. But, I think the book is worth reading if only for a lesson on how it came about that this piece of British soil happened to be occupied by Nazis.
I loved how a simple book club grew and grew. Each of the members had different tastes in books as well as different and personal reasons for reading and continuing to meet after the war. I felt like I was a silent member of the group and wanted to join in on the discussions! My greatest take away: Thats what I love about reading: one tiny thing will interest you in a book, and that tiny thing will lead you on to another book, and another bit there will lead you on to a third book Its geometrically progressive all with no end in sight, and for no other reason than sheer enjoyment.
This story begins right after the war. Juliet, a London writer and journalist is looking for some new material. She finds it in the form of correspondences with people from Guernsey. Dawsey, a Guernsey resident and survivor of the war, is one of the founders of the literary group. The group formed out of sheer survival instinct. One day Dawsey, Elizabeth, and a few other residents break curfew and are caught. Elizabeth lies to the Germans on the spot, and says that she and her friends hadnt noticed time pass as they were in a book group discussing German literature. The soldier lets them go and Elizabeth convinces everyone to get their hands on any book they can find and meet up regularly at their neighbors house just in case the soldiers decide to follow up on her story. They do just that and find solace in the books they read, and in the friendship and support they find in one another.
Where does the Potato Peel in groups name come from? Since food was very hard to come by, especially sweets, one of the group members figured out a way to make a mashed potato type of pie and sweetened it with beet juice (I think). This is what members ate during meet-ups.
Dawsey, a fan of Charles Lamb, finds a book with Juliets name and address on it. He reaches out to her in hopes that she can send him another book by Lamb. His letter explains the hardship residents have had to deal with during the war and Juliet shares hers as well. Soon after, Juliet decides that the residents of the island are the story and she begins to correspond with them about their war experiences.
The first third of the book really dives into the residents and their personal experiences with the war. The wartime recollections capture the desperation and deprivation of the time. The author loses the thread a bit, and the second third, and the heart of the story, is how most of the members-- most of which never had an interest in reading, find a connection with a text or author a connection which makes their existence on the war-torn island bearable. Although Elizabeths positive influence on each of the members is mentioned throughout the whole story, the last third provides us with her own back-story, and how her kindnesses have helped everyone cope and see that there is a silver lining in all of this. Most of all, she helps Juliet center herself and recognize what is most important in her own life.
I think the book started out very strong and then tapered off into a bit of fluff. I havent been as forgiving of this trait in other books Ive read - somehow it just works for this one. Maybe its because of the subject matter. Wartime is so raw and devastating that one looks forward to sweetness and light at the end of it all. I cant quite place my finger on where or how the book lost steam. But, I think the book is worth reading if only for a lesson on how it came about that this piece of British soil happened to be occupied by Nazis.
I loved how a simple book club grew and grew. Each of the members had different tastes in books as well as different and personal reasons for reading and continuing to meet after the war. I felt like I was a silent member of the group and wanted to join in on the discussions! My greatest take away: Thats what I love about reading: one tiny thing will interest you in a book, and that tiny thing will lead you on to another book, and another bit there will lead you on to a third book Its geometrically progressive all with no end in sight, and for no other reason than sheer enjoyment.
This is letters from a london woman who gets to know the residents of guernsey island. It is located between Britain and France. It was controlled by the Germans during World War 2. The islanders are eager for mainland new, hairdos, clothing styles and it being 1946 clothing items require a ration ticket.
The islanders grew tired of the German occupation so they made them selves a literary society, so they could meet and talk without German interference.
An interesting book about post WWII England.
The islanders grew tired of the German occupation so they made them selves a literary society, so they could meet and talk without German interference.
An interesting book about post WWII England.
Sabrina (sabrinathornton) -
Amazing Book!
Jeffree I. (jeffree) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 16 more book reviews
At first I did not like that the entire book was a series of letters. Couldn't figure out how the authors would make that work in a realistic fashion. But they pulled it off and very well I might add. Was an interesting way to both write and read the book. In the end I thought it was extremely well crafted and a great read.
heirloom-maters reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 50 more book reviews
I really enjoyed this novel. Told in a series of endearing letters that help you get into the characters, the story unfolds life during WWII on occupied Guernsey. The independent character of the islanders makes for some creative ways to get around the imposed rules of the German army and ultimately leads to the establishment of the Society.
I especially liked that there were no cardboard characters, no angels or demons. Too often characterizations of the WWII German soldiers and officers centers on demonizing all of them as ardent Nazis without allowing for the fact that many Germans who were forced to participate in that war were caught up in something they could not fight but still did their best to be human in the midst of inhumanity.
Very well done, very enjoyable. Even my husband is reading and enjoying it, and this is not his usual genre at all!
I especially liked that there were no cardboard characters, no angels or demons. Too often characterizations of the WWII German soldiers and officers centers on demonizing all of them as ardent Nazis without allowing for the fact that many Germans who were forced to participate in that war were caught up in something they could not fight but still did their best to be human in the midst of inhumanity.
Very well done, very enjoyable. Even my husband is reading and enjoying it, and this is not his usual genre at all!
Gina D. (kynannyg) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 6 more book reviews
This book was one that my book club read and I loved it!
Cheryl (boomerbooklover) -
Excellent story set in Guernsey that includes events that happened there during WWII. Tragic in parts; ends well.
Finally got around to reading this after hearing about it for years. (Thank you Paperback Book Swap). So now I can say I've got the cultural reference should it ever come up. But that's all I got out of this.
It is "airplane reading" because it is a time-killer, and not much else. If you are stuck in the house for some reason, and need something to read, you can certainly read this. But if you have other books waiting for you, go read one of those. Everything about this book is predictable, including, but not limited to, the characters.
It is "airplane reading" because it is a time-killer, and not much else. If you are stuck in the house for some reason, and need something to read, you can certainly read this. But if you have other books waiting for you, go read one of those. Everything about this book is predictable, including, but not limited to, the characters.
Patricia B. (tntb) reviewed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on + 24 more book reviews
Interesting book. Would reccomend
