What do you think?
Rate this book
Not All Tarts Are Apple
A rags-to-riches story with a delightfully original spin, Not All Tarts Are Apple is narrated by seven-year-old Rosie who grows up in a cafe in 1950s Soho, watched over by her eagle-eyed Auntie Maggie and Uncle Bert, and visited on occasions by her mother, the mysterious, and often drunk, Perfumed Lady. But it soon transpires that the Perfumed Lady's family - landed gentry who hail from a country estate near Bath - are desperate to get their hands on Rosie, and will stop at nothing - even kidnap - to acquire her.Not All Tarts Are Apple is peopled with a wonderful cast of eccentric subsidiary characters - Great Aunt Dodie, Madame Zelda and Paulette, Sharky, the Campini Family who run an Italian delicatessan in Old Compton Street, and Maltese Joe - all of whom live in a Soho so atmospherically evoked that you can smell and taste it.
336 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2002
41 people are currently reading
338 people want to read
About the author
Pip Granger
11 books14 followersPip Granger was born in Cuckfield, Sussex, in 1947. Her first job was with the City of Westminster, teaching children who had been excluded from school because of emotional and health problems, and she worked as a literacy and special needs teacher in Stoke Newington and Hackney in the 1970s and 1980s. After quitting teaching, she wrote for a while on non-fiction partworks, including My Garden and My Child.
Pip began to write fiction only in the 1990s. Her older brother, Peter, was diagnosed with brain cancer, and she wanted to memorialise their extraordinary childhood. The resulting book, Not All Tarts are Apple, was the unanimous winner of the first Harry Bowling Prize for London writing in 2000, and was published in 2002. A sequel, The Widow Ginger, was published the following year, and Trouble in Paradise in 2004. No Peace for the Wicked in April 2005.
Alone, a memoir of her extraordinary childhood, appeared in Corgi in June 2007. Her next book, Up West, an ‘emotional history’ of London’s West End in the two decades between VE Day and the birth of Swinging London
Pip began to write fiction only in the 1990s. Her older brother, Peter, was diagnosed with brain cancer, and she wanted to memorialise their extraordinary childhood. The resulting book, Not All Tarts are Apple, was the unanimous winner of the first Harry Bowling Prize for London writing in 2000, and was published in 2002. A sequel, The Widow Ginger, was published the following year, and Trouble in Paradise in 2004. No Peace for the Wicked in April 2005.
Alone, a memoir of her extraordinary childhood, appeared in Corgi in June 2007. Her next book, Up West, an ‘emotional history’ of London’s West End in the two decades between VE Day and the birth of Swinging London
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
December 21, 2020
1950's Soho London. Rosie is the adopted daughter of an eclectic couple. But Rosie is the light of the neighbourhood. She lives with her aunt Maggie and uncle Bert after her mother left Rosie when she was just months old. Rosie is now seven years old. Her aunt ant uncle own a cafe and that's where all the quirky characters go.
This story is based on the authors upbringing. This is not a mystery story but a story that has some mystery. Some of the mystery surrounds Rosie, the narrator of the book. This is an enchanting tale.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #RandomHouseUK #TransworldPublishers and the author #PipGranger for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This story is based on the authors upbringing. This is not a mystery story but a story that has some mystery. Some of the mystery surrounds Rosie, the narrator of the book. This is an enchanting tale.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #RandomHouseUK #TransworldPublishers and the author #PipGranger for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2012
Seeing the world through little girl Rosie's eyes is hilarious! And so is the British English! Rosie is telling her history in this book, as a grown woman, but she tells it how she remembers it, how she saw it all happen: from a girl's not-so oblivious and innocent, but very inexperienced and curious perspective.
Very cute story about the very abnormal, but absolutely loving "family" that Rosie grows up with. Interesting perspective, and interesting characters. Funny how, depending on the story, you can actually love and admire a mob boss and his henchman, a seedy lawyer, and a mystic. Throw in a couple of tarts, a huge Italian family who loves getting in everyone's business, and a "can you adopt me and raise me in your cafe, too" Auntie and Uncle, and man - Rosie is a lucky little girl to have such a big, happy family.
Not all is perfect, though - there's just enough intrigue, an icky-enough bad guy, and a few painful realities to keep it from being too Pollyanna-ish.
Very cute story about the very abnormal, but absolutely loving "family" that Rosie grows up with. Interesting perspective, and interesting characters. Funny how, depending on the story, you can actually love and admire a mob boss and his henchman, a seedy lawyer, and a mystic. Throw in a couple of tarts, a huge Italian family who loves getting in everyone's business, and a "can you adopt me and raise me in your cafe, too" Auntie and Uncle, and man - Rosie is a lucky little girl to have such a big, happy family.
Not all is perfect, though - there's just enough intrigue, an icky-enough bad guy, and a few painful realities to keep it from being too Pollyanna-ish.
May 23, 2020
2020 bk 172. I picked this up back in 2002 - read it and fell in love with the characters, purchased more in the series, read them, and shelved the books as keepers. I've re-read them once or twice along the way - but it has probably been five years since the last reading. The distance between the readings allowed me to pick up lines that I had missed or for which I didn't have background knowledge before hand. This is one book that keeps getting better each time I read it. A mystery, but not quite a mystery, a historical fiction, a family/genealogy book. This book fits so many different categories. It is one I will continue to cherish.
October 23, 2019
In a word: Delightful. I will definitely be looking for more books by this author.
May 29, 2013
It's the early 1950's and seven year-old Rosie lives in Soho with Aunt Maggie and Uncle Bert, who are her parents even though she's dimly aware that they really aren't. Rosie knows that her mother left her behind in their cafe when she was a newborn, and Maggie and Bert kept her for their own. Their family is rounded out by the crooked lawyer, the medium and the hooker who all live next door.
Written as a memoir, this book goes on aimlessly until about fifty pages from the end when suddenly there's a kidnapping and everything is about Rosie's mother, whose situation has been clear pretty early on. I can't say that the writing is bad, because I've seen so much worse, but it isn't good, especially when the cover proclaims this book to be a prize winner for fiction. The author relies heavily on cliches and takes the reader into situations that seem pointless and meandering.
Oddly, this was published by Poisoned Pen Press here in Scottsdale, which I thought worked only in mystery and crime. Though the story includes crime, it's seen through the eyes of a child and couldn't be called a "crime novel" in any way. 2.5 stars
Written as a memoir, this book goes on aimlessly until about fifty pages from the end when suddenly there's a kidnapping and everything is about Rosie's mother, whose situation has been clear pretty early on. I can't say that the writing is bad, because I've seen so much worse, but it isn't good, especially when the cover proclaims this book to be a prize winner for fiction. The author relies heavily on cliches and takes the reader into situations that seem pointless and meandering.
Oddly, this was published by Poisoned Pen Press here in Scottsdale, which I thought worked only in mystery and crime. Though the story includes crime, it's seen through the eyes of a child and couldn't be called a "crime novel" in any way. 2.5 stars
January 2, 2015
I must confess I bought this book mostly because of the cover. I thought it was adorable and well it is a Penguin book. I have an affinity for Penguin books for some unknown reason.
A cute story set in a Soho neighborhood in London in the 1950's it's centered around an adopted girl named Rosie. Her mom of which the colorful title gets its name drops off Rosie as a baby with her friends and they become her Uncle Bert and Aunt Maggie and her guardians. They own the cafe on the block that is host to all the quirky characters that come in as regulars. When Rosie's mom pops in and it's discovered someone is following her all chaos breaks loose in humorous mayhem.
A quick fun read when wanting something light and easy breezy.
How I acquired this book: The Book Depot, Pittsburg, CA
Shelf life: Three months
A cute story set in a Soho neighborhood in London in the 1950's it's centered around an adopted girl named Rosie. Her mom of which the colorful title gets its name drops off Rosie as a baby with her friends and they become her Uncle Bert and Aunt Maggie and her guardians. They own the cafe on the block that is host to all the quirky characters that come in as regulars. When Rosie's mom pops in and it's discovered someone is following her all chaos breaks loose in humorous mayhem.
A quick fun read when wanting something light and easy breezy.
How I acquired this book: The Book Depot, Pittsburg, CA
Shelf life: Three months
December 12, 2013
This is one of those nice easy reads about salt of the earth people in London's Soho area. Set just after WWII and told by a six year old, Rosa called Rosie, it is a view of her life at the Cafe.
It's well written in that Rosie tells the reader everything but quite clearly only understands part of what she knows. The plot is thickened by the query over who Rosie's mother really is.
Historical detail is a nice touch. People who remember the Coronation, the first TVs, the end of rationing will enjoy a nostalgic read.
I'm surprised the novel and sequel haven't been snapped up by TV or a film company. It would make hilarious family viewing.
Anyone in need of a heart warming and cheery read would enjoy this. It might make a great Christmas read for difficult elderly relatives!
September 30, 2020
Liked this new-ish series very much. Reminded me of my favorite Jane Duncan "My Friends" series, but set in Cockney London just after WWII.
March 10, 2019
I can see myself rereading this at some point. It is delightful in the way that Wes Anderson movies are. Lots of heartwarmingly imperfect characters and a street-wise kid narrator. Experiencing Rosie's world through her eyes is pretty hilarious, and all the slang thrown about is exciting. While all the seediness unfolds around her, the feeling of safety is always still within grasp thanks to having loads of people around looking out for her (and in a way, for you). As an anxious reader/person that was a very welcome feeling.
November 4, 2022
Absolutely loved it from start to finish. Took me straight back to my English childhood, although I did not have anything like Rosie’s life! Fabulous characters and totally believable even though the narrator is eight years old. Highly recommend to fellow Brits. Might be a bit challenging for American readers. Like me trying to make my way through written backwoods Mississippi jargon!
May 31, 2018
What a charming, delightful read! Pip Granger is able to transport anyone back to an English childhood, even those of us born in the USA. Clever, engaging and much too short. Well done!
March 2, 2011
This is the second in the Soho series (chronologically) and picks up seven years after Trouble in Paradise with the focus centered on Rosa, the baby Zelda foresaw as coming into Bert and Maggie's life.
While Tarts doesn't have that intense pull that Paradise did, I still couldn't put it down for all the drama that rose up around our Rosa. Charlie Fluck is back and he's the main source of the threats against her as well as one of the methods by which we learn of Cassandra's background. I can see this background and the corporate control it teeters over continuing onto a third novel...please??!?!!!
I suspect most parents would find Rosa's childhood absolutely appalling and, I cannot disagree that Rosa learns a lot about the seamy side of life that I would prefer children never learn but she is being raised with such an incredible amount of love by a huge circle of friends that I can only wish that more kids had her opportunities. She is loved. She is cared for. She is protected by a neighborhood. Kids today should be so lucky.
While Tarts doesn't have that intense pull that Paradise did, I still couldn't put it down for all the drama that rose up around our Rosa. Charlie Fluck is back and he's the main source of the threats against her as well as one of the methods by which we learn of Cassandra's background. I can see this background and the corporate control it teeters over continuing onto a third novel...please??!?!!!
I suspect most parents would find Rosa's childhood absolutely appalling and, I cannot disagree that Rosa learns a lot about the seamy side of life that I would prefer children never learn but she is being raised with such an incredible amount of love by a huge circle of friends that I can only wish that more kids had her opportunities. She is loved. She is cared for. She is protected by a neighborhood. Kids today should be so lucky.
October 26, 2012
Listed as a mystery I only found one mystery – Who was 7 year old Rosie’s father? I think I figured it out, but…
Anyway the title of this booked intrigued me and figured a good fall / Halloween mystery was ripe for the season. Bobbing for apples anyone?
This was a cute quick read that takes in Great Britain in 1953. Neighbors of Uncle Bert and Aunt Maggie’s tavern enjoy fun times centered on erratic Cassandra and her daughter Rosie. Rosie is always eavesdropping on the adult’s conversations. Filled with unique characters that live on the wild side of gossip, gangs, low morals and prostitution it makes for an interesting storyline. Cassandra’s background is from the finer side of the tracks, but she has experienced some misfortune during her teen years and has vanished from her privileged lifestyle. The British humor is witty and amusing.
Anyway the title of this booked intrigued me and figured a good fall / Halloween mystery was ripe for the season. Bobbing for apples anyone?
This was a cute quick read that takes in Great Britain in 1953. Neighbors of Uncle Bert and Aunt Maggie’s tavern enjoy fun times centered on erratic Cassandra and her daughter Rosie. Rosie is always eavesdropping on the adult’s conversations. Filled with unique characters that live on the wild side of gossip, gangs, low morals and prostitution it makes for an interesting storyline. Cassandra’s background is from the finer side of the tracks, but she has experienced some misfortune during her teen years and has vanished from her privileged lifestyle. The British humor is witty and amusing.
December 10, 2012
In 1953, London's alleyways are full of all sorts of shady characters. But seven-year old Rosie has a spot in everyone's heart. She lives with her Uncle Bert and Aunt Maggie, and one day she learns that "The Perfumed Lady" is really Rosie's mother. And there is a plot afoot that Rosie is the target of. She rallies the whole neighborhood to her aid. This was a whimsical book. It had a really British writing style, with a lot of British terms and a sort of British feel to it, which I enjoyed. Also, I loved all the characters: fortune-tellers, card-sharks, crooks, who are all good people in their way, as well as Rosie's family. And Rosie herself was a great character, an indomitable, cheerful, seven-year old who narrates the book throughout, never allowing herself to be beaten down or intimidated.
October 7, 2009
2.5 Stars
This was ok. Not great, not bad, just ok.
The story was rather flat with no real depth.
While I became attached to the characters, the story was not especially engaging.
The story was told from the perspective of a child, which can work well, but in this case it just got a bit tiring.
There was such a variety in the characters personalities & backgrounds, this probably would have been a great story to tell from multiple perspectives.
Anyway, it was the title and author's name that initially drew me in, then the jacket description further interested me but the result was just a bit flat.
This was ok. Not great, not bad, just ok.
The story was rather flat with no real depth.
While I became attached to the characters, the story was not especially engaging.
The story was told from the perspective of a child, which can work well, but in this case it just got a bit tiring.
There was such a variety in the characters personalities & backgrounds, this probably would have been a great story to tell from multiple perspectives.
Anyway, it was the title and author's name that initially drew me in, then the jacket description further interested me but the result was just a bit flat.
November 1, 2012
I quite enjoyed this book. Sure, it wasn't four star status, which is about the highest I ever give, but it was definitely an amusing read. I think a max of 2 f-bombs and no other real swearing, which is a surprise considering that the Brits take their swear words even easier than half the US does. Also, some shall I say, interesting, characters. A hooker, an underworld mobster's relative, etc. A little lower grade of people but enjoyable and likeable none the less. Told from the perspective of a seven year old girl with bits and pieces that she "overhears" which give an adult perspective and then her take on what she hears or observes which gives and amusing spin to the activities.
March 12, 2015
This is a word-of-mouth book that is hard to describe but easy to love. The characters are unique and unforgettable (especially young Rosie) and the writing is quirky, sassy, funny, and affectionate. I wasn’t in London in the 1950s, yet this feels like such a true slice-of-life from that period and that location. You fall into Granger’s world and won’t ever want to escape. Just like a good apple this delicious treat is satisfying and easy on the palate but will linger long after you are finished.
July 26, 2010
Beloved little Rosie is a child truly raised by a "village"--the tightknit community of London's seedy SoHo in the post WWII years. Her mother is a drunk and a prostitute, but with a mysteriously posh past, and Rosie is the foster child of cafe owners Uncle Bert and Aunt Maggie.
Lively characters make this book a wonderful treat, seen through the innocent, yet sharp, eyes of Rosie. Haven't read such a great book in a long time.
Lively characters make this book a wonderful treat, seen through the innocent, yet sharp, eyes of Rosie. Haven't read such a great book in a long time.
November 11, 2014
The word cozy was made for stories like this - a warm nostalgic glance back at a small slice of Soho in the summer of Elizabeth II's coronation. There is a cast of lovable working class (and working girl) eccentrics, the villains are easily thwarted and a good cuppa will cure almost anything. It's guilt free pleasure.
July 1, 2018
One of my favorite books for whenever I need a laugh. The young narrator's interpretation of her very Bohemian life of 1950s makes for a marvelous view of a Soho filled with tarts (not all apple), petty criminals, working blokes, and a charming Italian family.
January 16, 2014
Loved this book and the others in the series! Reminded me of the stories my Nan used to tell me from her childhood. (Some if it...not the prostitue mother etc) a warm story of community, good people and lots of love.
February 15, 2008
Pip Granger writes about the England we love. . .and that isn't there any more. Charming!
June 2, 2008
The child's perspective is really charming and fun, and the family relationships and historical detail are great.
July 20, 2008
A charming tale and wonderful introduction to the work of Pip Granger. Liked it much more than The Widow Ginger. Have yet to read her newer novels.
December 17, 2014
Just delightful. A sweet-tart story set in a lower-crust neighborhood in 1950s England.
March 6, 2014
Spotted the 5* result on Tracey's profile
:O)
I can't remember when I first went to live with Auntie Maggie and Uncle Bert.
:O)
I can't remember when I first went to live with Auntie Maggie and Uncle Bert.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2010
Should have been a lot more entertaining and enjoyable than it was. Wanted to connect with the characters but never did. They just seemed more like caricatures than real people.
December 13, 2010
easy read.
January 31, 2011
Had to give up. Not my cup of tea.
August 9, 2011
Totally charming and fun.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews