The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

I wasn't sure I would like this novel - the title is just a little too cute, and I've never been a big fan of epistolary novels. I am glad to say I was wrong. What a charming story! The characters are all likable, warm, and accessible, especially the main character, Juliet, a celebrated author. And all of the personal stories are believable and interesting.

I had no idea that Guernsey Island - supposedly so close to France that you can see the cars on a clear day - was occupied by the Germans during WWII. This novel takes place just after WWII, when the Germans have left and the evacuated children have returned. One of the members of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society finds Juliet's name in a used book, and impulsively sends her a letter. She is so charmed by him that she responds, and soon develops a correspondence with all of the members of the Society (and some of the other Islanders). Deciding this is wonderful material for an article, or even a book, Juliet moves temporarily to Guernsey to get to know everyone a little better.

This book spoke to me on a number of levels. First, the experiences during the occupation are touching and sometimes sad. Second, the relationships between the Society members, and those Juliet develops with them, feel genuine and loving. And last, the relationship of everyone to the books they read are so personal and deep, just like the relationships many of us have to the books we love the most. And the surprise appearance of one Oscar Wilde make this a not-to-be-missed novel for all lovers of great British literature.