Guernsey Literary And Potato Peel Pie Society True Story
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a captivating novel that has captured the hearts of many readers worldwide. But did you know that this book is based on a true story? In this article, we will delve into the real-life events that inspired the creation of this beloved novel.
The Occupation of Guernsey
During World War II, the Channel Islands, including Guernsey, were the only British territories to be occupied by German forces. The people of Guernsey endured five long years of occupation, which had a significant impact on their lives.
Food was scarce, and the islanders had to rely on rationing and growing their own crops. Many families were separated, and communication with the outside world was limited. Despite these challenges, the people of Guernsey showed remarkable resilience and bravery during this difficult time.
The Origin of the Society
In the book, the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a group of friends who come together to share their love of literature during the occupation. In reality, the society was formed as a cover for a forbidden pig roast.
A group of islanders had gathered secretly to enjoy a pig that had been raised without the knowledge of the German authorities. When they were discovered, they told the Germans that they were holding a literary society meeting, and thus the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society was born.
The Inspiration for the Book
The author of the novel, Mary Ann Shaffer, was visiting Guernsey in 1976 when she came across a book about the island's occupation. She became fascinated by the stories of the islanders' bravery and resourcefulness and decided to write a novel based on their experiences.
However, Shaffer was unable to complete the novel due to health problems, and it was her niece, Annie Barrows, who took on the task of finishing the book after her aunt's death.
The Legacy of the Society
Since the publication of the novel in 2008, the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society has become a beloved story around the world. It has been translated into numerous languages and was adapted into a movie in 2018.
Most importantly, the society has become a symbol of the islanders' resilience and strength during a difficult time in their history. It is a reminder of the power of literature to bring people together and provide comfort during times of hardship.
Conclusion
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is not just a beloved novel – it is a testament to the bravery and resourcefulness of the people of Guernsey during one of the darkest periods of their history. The society has left a lasting legacy and continues to inspire readers around the world.
