Reviews with content warning for Death - The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society: rejacketed

Reviews tagging 'Death'

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society: rejacketed by Annie Barrows, Mary Ann Shaffer

54 reviews

rebcamuse's review against another edition

funny hopeful lighthearted reflective fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This is a charming little book. There are moments where it reaches beyond charming, but the depth is so momentary that it hard to hold on to it. I found myself wanting more from Juliet and her voyage of discovery, particularly when it came to Elizabeth. The various inhabitants of Guernsey are colorful and fun, although some of the characters felt a tad overwritten in some cases (e.g. Adelaide). I liked the epistolary mode more than I thought I would, and the length of the letters is well-considered.

The subtext is important, however. Narratives from war are always important, and Guernsey provides a glimpse (sadly, only that) into the many dimensions and complications of being occupied and occupying. Included too are the more well-known horrors of WWII, but we have hardly a moment to process that before we are back to the lighthearted eccentricities of the Literary Society. The uneven-ness made me feel as thought I couldn't quite commit emotionally to the story. Juliet herself is also partially to blame for that -- she is clearly clever, smart, and has great ability for compassion and empathy, but her behavior toward two of the male characters grated on me. All that said, this is a lovely beach read, with moments of pathos and moments of laughter, and is delightful if not particularly robust.

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aileron's review against another edition

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emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

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ryleee's review against another edition

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adventurous funny lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

Such a unique book, in terms of writing style, setting and story. It made me feel like I was there in Guernsey, and at the same time, longing to visit. The place and the people are written in such a way that they feel immediately familiar, which gives the story (even though it is relatively simple) such a warmness—a playful and enjoyable read.

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cadybooks's review against another edition

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emotional funny lighthearted fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

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kaanda's review against another edition

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dark emotional funny hopeful informative lighthearted reflective relaxing sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

One of the cutest and funniest books I have ever read despite dealing with some very dark subject matter. A respectful and hopeful look at a dark period of history. Amazing!

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lgiery's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful lighthearted fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.75

Despite taking on topics like war, death, and trauma, it's a book about joy, hope, friendship, community, and the power of books to uplift and heal even in the darkest of times.

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