The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

Dive into the heartwarming world of "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society," a captivating historical novel by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. This first edition paperback, published by Dial Press in 2009, invites you on a journey to post-World War II England and the Channel Island of Guernsey, a place slowly recovering from German occupation. The story unfolds through a series of letters, primarily written by Juliet Ashton, a successful and independent author living in London. Restless and searching for her next great subject, Juliet receives a letter from Dawsey Adams, a Guernsey pig farmer, who has come across her name in a book. Intrigued, Juliet begins a correspondence with Dawsey and other members of the "Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society," a quirky and endearing book club formed during the German occupation as a clever cover for forbidden gatherings. As Juliet exchanges letters with the society members including the witty and resilient Elizabeth McKenna, the kindly Amelia Maugery, and the resourceful Isola Pribby she becomes increasingly fascinated by their lives, their stories of hardship and resilience under occupation, and the profound comfort they found in literature. The letters paint a vivid picture of Guernsey during the war, the challenges faced by the islanders, and the strong sense of community that helped them survive. Drawn to the island and its people, Juliet decides to visit Guernsey, leaving behind her London life and her charming American fianc. On Guernsey, she is enveloped by the warmth and humor of the society members, and as she delves deeper into their stories, she uncovers secrets, confronts difficult truths, and begins to question her own path. The novel explores themes of love, loss, resilience, the power of community, and the transformative impact of literature. "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" is a delightful and poignant read, celebrated for its epistolary format, its charming characters, its historical setting, and its exploration of the enduring human spirit. Readers have praised the book's wit, its emotional depth, and its ability to transport them to a different time and place. This first edition printing in paperback form is a wonderful addition to any book lover's collection. Experience the magic of Guernsey and the power of storytelling with this unforgettable novel. At 248 pages and a weight of only 181 grams, this paperback book is a perfect companion for travel.