The Guernsey Literary And Potato Peel Pie Society Book Club
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 is set during World War II. The book follows the story of a writer named Juliet Ashton, who receives a letter from a man named Dawsey Adams, who lives on the island of Guernsey. The letter leads to an exchange of correspondence between Juliet and the members of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, a book club formed during the German occupation of the island.
The Formation of the Society
The society was formed during the German occupation of Guernsey when a group of islanders were caught breaking curfew by the German soldiers. In order to avoid punishment, they claimed to have been returning from a book club meeting. As a result, they were forced to form an actual book club, which they named the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, after the food they had been eating during the meeting.
The Members of the Society
The members of the society include Dawsey Adams, a pig farmer who wrote to Juliet; Eben Ramsey, a fisherman; Isola Pribby, a herbalist and midwife; Amelia Maugery, a cook; and Elizabeth McKenna, a former teacher. These characters all have interesting backstories and their own unique personalities, which make them memorable and relatable to readers.
The Importance of Literature
The book club in The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society serves as a reminder of the importance of literature during difficult times. The members of the society find solace in books and use them as a means of escape from the harsh realities of war. They also use literature as a way to connect with one another and form meaningful relationships.
The Setting of the Novel
The novel is set on the island of Guernsey, which is located in the English Channel. During World War II, the island was occupied by German forces, and the residents of Guernsey were subjected to many hardships. The setting of the novel is important because it provides a unique backdrop for the story and allows readers to learn about a lesser-known aspect of World War II.
The Epistolary Format
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is written in an epistolary format, which means that it is composed entirely of letters, telegrams, and other forms of written communication. This format is engaging because it allows readers to see the story unfold through the eyes of multiple characters and provides insight into their thoughts and feelings.
The Themes of the Novel
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society explores many themes, including the power of literature, the importance of community, the effects of war, and the resilience of the human spirit. These themes are all woven together to create a moving and thought-provoking story that resonates with readers long after they have finished reading the book.
The Film Adaptation
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 talented ensemble cast, including Michiel Huisman, Glen Powell, and Penelope Wilton. While the film received mixed reviews from critics, it introduced the story to a new audience and allowed fans of the book to see their favorite characters come to life on the big screen.
The Legacy of the Book
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society has become a beloved book club favorite and a modern classic. Its timeless themes and memorable characters have resonated with readers of all ages and backgrounds. The book has also helped to shed light on the history of Guernsey during World War II and has inspired many people to visit the island and learn more about its past.
Conclusion
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a moving and engaging novel that explores the power of literature, the importance of community, and the resilience of the human spirit. Its memorable characters and unique setting make it a must-read for book club members and history buffs alike. Whether you are reading the book for the first time or revisiting it after many years, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is sure to leave a lasting impression.