Guernsey Literary And Potato Peel Pie Society Author
Introduction
Mary Ann Shaffer was an American author, born on December 13, 1934, in Martinsburg, West Virginia. She is best known for her novel "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society," which was published posthumously in 2008. Shaffer started writing at the age of 40 and published her first book, "Growing Up in a Hurry," in 1985. However, it was her second book that became a bestseller and earned her international acclaim.
Early Life and Career
Mary Ann Shaffer was raised in West Virginia and attended West Virginia University, where she received a Bachelor's degree in English. After graduating, she worked as a librarian, bookstore owner, and an editor before becoming a full-time writer. Shaffer's first book, "Growing Up in a Hurry," was a memoir about her childhood and family life.
Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
"The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" was Shaffer's second book and the one that brought her the most success. The novel is set in 1946 and tells the story of a writer named Juliet Ashton who receives a letter from a man living on the island of Guernsey, which had been occupied by the Germans during World War II. The letter leads her to discover the story of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, a book club that was formed during the war as a way to escape the German occupation.
Shaffer began writing the book in 1995 but was forced to put it on hold due to health issues. Her niece, Annie Barrows, also a writer, helped her complete the novel. Unfortunately, Shaffer passed away in February 2008, a few months before the book was published. The novel became an instant bestseller, and the film adaptation was released in 2018.
Other Works
Aside from "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society," Shaffer also wrote a children's book titled "The Toymaker," which was published in 2009, a year after her death. She also wrote several short stories, including "The Prize Winner" and "The Keeper of the Keys," which were published in literary magazines.
Writing Style
Mary Ann Shaffer's writing style was known for being witty, warm, and charming. She had a talent for creating vivid characters and transporting readers to different worlds. Her love for literature and history was evident in her writing, and she often incorporated both into her stories.
Legacy
Mary Ann Shaffer's legacy lives on through her writing. "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" has become a beloved book worldwide, and her other works continue to be enjoyed by readers. Shaffer's passion for literature and storytelling inspired many, and her books have touched the hearts of countless people.
Conclusion
Mary Ann Shaffer was a talented writer who left a lasting impression on the literary world. Her novel "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" is a testament to her storytelling ability and has become a modern classic. Shaffer's love for literature and history, combined with her charming writing style, made her a unique voice in the literary community. Her legacy will continue to inspire readers for years to come.
