" 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. 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.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
Incredibly good:
This book is just a wonder and I'm so sorry that the author is not around to enjoy all these great reviews. I'd like to have know the author and to have had a glass of wine with her. Her compassion and empathy are just what this world needs to stem the arrogance and greed of our directionless society. This great story incorporating her remembrances of things past is indeed a great gift to us all.
most charming book of the year!:
Lovely enjoyable book! Characters are so real you wish you could become their best friends - or worst enemies! (for the evil characters!) It also brings history home in such a human way. The characters do remind me of so many real people I know and are dear to me. Makes me want to take the real people and hold them as close to me as I do this choice book. Such an affirmation of the human spirit and just a good happy cry book. Everything that I love in a good book. Read it, you'll love it as much as I did.
Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society:
If you are hesitating, just stop and buy this book. Or borrow it. But read it! I read at least one book a week, and this is one of the best books I have ever read. I rarely re-read a book because life is too short, but I will be making an exception with Guernsey.
Best read of 2008:
This is the best book I have read in 2008 (of approximately 40 books). Everyone who has read this book after my recommendation has responded similarly. It is different. The characters are real. There is nothing suspensful about this book, yet I didn't want to put it down. I was sad when it was over.
