The Guernsey Literary And Potato Peel Pie Society Sparknotes
Introduction
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a novel written by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. It was published in 2008 and became a bestseller. The novel is set in 1946 and tells the story of Juliet Ashton, an author who receives a letter from a man named Dawsey Adams, who lives on the island of Guernsey.
Plot Summary
The novel begins with Juliet Ashton, a writer looking for inspiration for her next book. She receives a letter from Dawsey Adams, who lives on the island of Guernsey. Dawsey explains that he found Juliet's name written in a book by Charles Lamb, and he was wondering if she could help him find more books by Lamb.
Juliet is intrigued by the letter and starts corresponding with Dawsey and other members of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. The Society was formed during the German occupation of Guernsey during World War II. The members would gather together to discuss books and share food, including potato peel pie, which was made from the little food they had available.
Juliet becomes fascinated by the Society and decides to visit Guernsey to learn more about it. She meets the members of the Society and learns about their experiences during the war. She also learns about Elizabeth McKenna, a member of the Society who was arrested and taken to a concentration camp in Germany.
With the help of the Society, Juliet uncovers the truth about Elizabeth's fate and writes a book about the Society's experiences during the war.
Themes
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society explores themes of love, friendship, and the power of literature. The members of the Society form a close bond over their love of books, and their discussions about literature help them to cope with the hardships of the war.
The novel also explores the theme of the lasting impact of war on individuals and communities. The members of the Society have all been affected by the war in different ways, and they continue to struggle with its aftermath.
Characters
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society features a cast of memorable characters, including:
- Juliet Ashton - a writer and the protagonist of the novel
- Dawsey Adams - a member of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society who writes to Juliet
- Elizabeth McKenna - a member of the Society who was arrested during the war
- Isola Pribby - a member of the Society who is known for her herbal remedies
- Amelia Maugery - a member of the Society who is the owner of the local bookstore
- Sidney Stark - Juliet's publisher and friend
Adaptations
In 2018, a film adaptation of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society was released. The film starred Lily James as Juliet Ashton and featured a cast of talented actors, including Michiel Huisman, Tom Courtenay, and Penelope Wilton.
Conclusion
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a moving and powerful novel that explores the enduring impact of war on individuals and communities. Its themes of love, friendship, and the power of literature have resonated with readers around the world, making it a beloved classic.
