What am I reading this week? The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. Here’s my review of this poignant novel about the German occupation of the island of Guernsey and the crazy cast of characters that lived through it.
The name is eye-catching, isn’t it? I’m surprised it took me this long to come across The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society because I know I haven’t before now. Who could forget that name!
When I started The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But from the first chapter, I was hooked.
Told entirely in the form of letters from the main characters to one another, you are transported to the world of post-WWII England. Juliet is a writer living in London who needs an idea for her next book. Dawsey is a farmer on the island of Guernsey in the English Channel who writes to her because of a book she donated and he found.
Their initial letters are the beginning of a friendship that extends to many who live on Guernsey, introducing us to a varied and interesting cast of characters. It doesn’t take long for Juliet to realize that she needs to see Guernsey for herself.
And that’s when things get even more interesting.
My Honest opinion about The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society…
This may just be my favorite book of the year. I know it’s a little early to call it, but there was just something so perfect about this novel (for me).
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society just checked so many boxes. I really enjoyed the premise of a book written entirely in letters. You can understand so much of the characters merely by seeing them described to others, as you would tell a friend far away about the people in your day to day life.
I loved the dry humor mixed with honest emotion. Any book about WWII or right after could easily vilify the Germans, but this one chose to show the good and the bad. Of both sides.
But the characters are what really make this novel wonderful. With so many different names and personalities, you could easily get lost trying to remember who’s who. But you don’t. They are all distinct from each other.
I listened to the audiobook, which was amazing because there were different voices for each character. This really enhanced the story so much.
I rushed through The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society because it was that good. And then all I could think about was reading it again when I was done. That, for me, is the highest praise I can give a book.
My recommendations
I would recommend this book to any reader who enjoys humor and emotion mixed well with a cast of intriguing characters.
If you love history, particularly from this period in time, then this would be a great read. Just a note: there are some descriptions of the occupation and war which may be upsetting for some. They are not overly graphic, but heart-wrenching just the same.
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is clean in its language and romance, so it really would make a great recommendation to anyone who just wants to curl up with a good book this season.
Other recommendations on this topic
If you like the format of this book, then you might want to try To Night Owl From Dogfish, which is about two girls who are pushed together, determined to dislike each other only to become best friends. Told entirely by letters and emails.
For another story about lovable characters in an English village with some romance, check out Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand.
Happy reading!
(The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is available for FREE in audiobook form. Just sign up for the FREE AUDIBLE trial and cancel whenever you want!)
So, what are you reading this week? Have any suggestions for me?
Interested in more on books? Then check out these posts:
What I’m Reading… Waiting for Tom Hanks
How to Save Money as a Dedicated Book Lover
[Disclaimer: I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission, at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own and I never recommend anything I haven’t used myself and loved.]
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