The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

Summary:

 Written with warmth and humor as a series of letters, this novel is a celebration of the written word in all its guises, and of finding connection in the most surprising ways.

“I wonder how the book got to Guernsey? Perhaps there is some sort of secret homing instinct in books that brings them to their perfect readers.” 

January 1946: London is emerging from the shadow of the Second World War, and writer Juliet Ashton is looking for her next book subject. Who could imagine that she would find it in a letter from a man she’s never met, a native of the island of Guernsey, who has come across her name written inside a book by Charles Lamb…. 

As Juliet and her new correspondent exchange letters, Juliet is drawn into the world of this man and his friends—and what a wonderfully eccentric world it is. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society—born as a spur-of-the-moment alibi when its members were discovered breaking curfew by the Germans occupying their island—boasts a charming, funny, deeply human cast of characters, from pig farmers to phrenologists, literature lovers all. 

Juliet begins a remarkable correspondence with the society’s members, learning about their island, their taste in books, and the impact the recent German occupation has had on their lives. Captivated by their stories, she sets sail for Guernsey, and what she finds will change her forever

My Review:

I read this book right after I watched the movie on Netflix. The movie was my absolute  favorite from all the movies in 2018. The book was just ok for me. If I would have read it first instead of seeing the movie, maybe I would have a different opinion.  It was written in a series of letters from the different characters, so it was hard following the story from so many points of view. But on the other hand, it gave the book a personal touch.

Juliet is such a great character. She is so witty, smart, and funny. Her letter responses cracked me up throughout the whole book. She had a wonderful way of making friendships with the people of Guernsey. 

Overall, I think it is a sweet love story. Most book lovers would enjoy this story. 

Things to Watch Out for: 

Flashbacks include brief scenes of wartime action, menacing Nazi officials, a city in ruins, a body, a hospital ward, and a Nazi march. A short bar fight. Characters drink in multiple scenes; one man is drunk, and another smokes cigarettes. Mild language.