Guernsey Literary And Potato Peel Pie Society Book Summary
The Plot
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a historical fiction novel by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. The story takes place in 1946, just after the end of World War II. The protagonist, Juliet Ashton, is a writer who is looking for inspiration for her next book. She receives a letter from a man named Dawsey Adams, who lives on the island of Guernsey. Dawsey is a member of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, a book club that was formed during the German occupation of Guernsey.
As Juliet begins corresponding with Dawsey and other members of the society, she learns about the group's experiences during the war and how they used books to cope with the difficult times. The society was formed as a way to circumvent the strict curfew that was imposed by the Germans, and the members would gather to discuss books and share food. They even created a potato peel pie, which became a staple of their meetings.
Juliet becomes fascinated by the society and decides to visit Guernsey to learn more about its members and their experiences. She forms a close bond with the islanders and becomes invested in their lives, even as she struggles with her own personal problems.
The Characters
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society features a cast of memorable characters, each with their own unique story. In addition to Juliet and Dawsey, there is also Amelia Maugery, the founder of the society, and Isola Pribby, a quirky spinster who becomes Juliet's friend.
Other members of the society include Eben Ramsey, a farmer who lost his wife during the war, and Elizabeth McKenna, a woman who was arrested by the Germans and sent to a concentration camp. Through their stories, the reader gains a deeper understanding of the impact of the war on the people of Guernsey.
The Themes
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society explores a number of themes, including the power of literature, the impact of war, and the importance of community. The society serves as a symbol of the resilience and strength of the people of Guernsey, who were able to come together during a difficult time and find comfort in books and each other.
The novel also touches on the theme of love, as Juliet begins to develop feelings for Dawsey and grapples with the aftermath of a failed relationship. The romance is not the central focus of the story, but rather a subplot that adds depth to the characters and their experiences.
The Reception
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society has been well-received by readers and critics alike. The novel was a New York Times bestseller and won the 2009 Independent Booksellers' Book of the Year award. It has been translated into numerous languages and has been adapted into a film starring Lily James and Michiel Huisman.
Conclusion
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a heartwarming and engaging novel that explores the power of literature and the resilience of the human spirit. Through its memorable characters and vivid setting, it transports the reader to a unique time and place and leaves a lasting impression.
