Monday, March 1, 2010

Feb. 28, 2010 - The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows

"Revealing much about the aftermath of World War II in England, the novel is at once an unlikely love story, a portrayal of heroism and survival, and a subtle homage to the bond forged by literature." - The Charlotte Observer

Recommended by a friend, this novel is written in the form of letters between the various characters, who we come to know only through their literary interactions. What will it be like to read such a novel? Is it possible to form a connection to these characters in this style of writing? I imagine the reader will see different facets of the characters from the perspective of those they interact with. This will allow for multiple points of view which in turn may help to determine their personalities and desires.

I am also intrigued by the historical perspective. The author did extensive research on  the island of Guernsey and the German occupation of the English Channel during World War II. The letters are all written during the year of 1946, after the end of the war, so I am wondering what effect the war had on this island and how the Germans play a part in its history once the war is over.

The combination of an intriguing and unusual format combined with historical references to one of the most tragic of world events promises to provide an interesting story.

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