I've read a lot of World War 2 novels, and this was one of the best. It was realistic, but at the same time it was borderline mystical. The writing w...more I've read a lot of World War 2 novels, and this was one of the best. It was realistic, but at the same time it was borderline mystical. The writing was engrossing and lyrical, and the characters were spectacularly well-written. Despite the many heart-wrenching moments, the story was ultimately uplifting and moving.
I've been wanting to get my hands on this book for ages. It was receiving good reviews and was promoted everywhere I looked.
This book, written in epi...moreI've been wanting to get my hands on this book for ages. It was receiving good reviews and was promoted everywhere I looked.
This book, written in epistolary format (points for using a new word!), follows Juliet, an author living in London just after WW2, who receives a letter from a man living on Guernsey who happens to notice her address in a second-hand book he has. They begin a delightful correspodance and Juliet gets sucked into the story of Guernsey's occupation and of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.
This book was so delightful and charming it was like a cute old lady. I've never read such a light-hearted book about WW2, and it was a nice change. I fell in love with every single character mentioned. Especially Isola. If it was possible for me to go into a book and kidnap a character, it would be Isola. It's only a pity she doesn't have any super powers. Anyway, I didn't find the letter format confusing, execept for the occasional confusion over the difference between Susan and Sophie. I got sucked into the book more and more as I turned the pages, and by the end I couldn't put it down. However, as it went on, it also got progressively less believable. So some mild disbelief-suspension is required to enjoy the book. I also felt I learned a lot about the Occupation.
I do completely recommend this book with 4.5 stars. It's only a shame that Ms. Shaffer died before the completion of her first novel. I would have read more things from her. (less)
This book was all right. It was not my favorite WW2 novel, but it did surpass a few. This book was very informative, I learned a lot, but it wasn't ab...moreThis book was all right. It was not my favorite WW2 novel, but it did surpass a few. This book was very informative, I learned a lot, but it wasn't absorbing. I often felt I was only being preached at, and I didn't even remember the main characters name, because everything seemed so impersonal. It felt like a history text book, and wasn't nearly dark enough for a WW2 novel. One thing it did manage to capture whole-heartedly was the Navajo spirit. (less)
Easily the most beautiful, moving novel I have ever read. I dare you to read this book without having to sit back in your chair to just soak up the pu...moreEasily the most beautiful, moving novel I have ever read. I dare you to read this book without having to sit back in your chair to just soak up the pure emotion you just read. This book is an accurate portrayal of both the best and worst of human nature, which is ironic because its narrator isn't human at all. By far one of the best, most original books I have ever read.
This is the most bizarre book I've ever read. Was there even a plot? But this book was also the most unique. I doubt you'll get bored, and the themes...moreThis is the most bizarre book I've ever read. Was there even a plot? But this book was also the most unique. I doubt you'll get bored, and the themes are really quite good. I thought it was thought-provoking, well-written, and humorous. I enjoyed it, and I recommend it.(less)
Loading...
