Cara (cheddy) reviewed on 6/6/2009 + 29 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 2

"Perhaps there is some secret sort of homing instinct in books that brings them to their perfect readers." Told through a series of letters, this novel is heartfelt, but without being overly sentimental. The book describes life on the island of Guernsey during the German occupation of World War II. Characters include Juliet Ashton, writing a book about Guernsey island and its inhabitants; Isola Pribby, part-time detective and founding member of the literary society; Elizabeth, young nurse in love with a German officer; Dawsey, the quiet pig farmer/carpenter and reluctant member of the society. The Literary society is formed as a way to help residents cope with the German presence.

This book works on so many levels as a historical novel, a humorous story, a comment on reading, a comment on man's humanity and inhumanity during some of the darkest days of the last century. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll join a book group.

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