The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a historical drama that has captured the hearts and minds of readers and viewers alike.
This captivating story is told through letters exchanged between the characters, providing a unique perspective on life during World War II.
The book, written by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows, has been adapted into a film directed by Mike Newell. In this article, we will delve into the book summary, film adaptation, and explore the charm of this heartwarming tale.
Overview of the book by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a novel written by Mary Ann Shaffer and co-authored by her niece, Annie Barrows.
The book was published in 2008 and quickly gained popularity, becoming a New York Times bestseller. The novel is set in 1946 and follows the story of Juliet Ashton, a London-based writer who receives a letter from a man living in Guernsey, an island in the English Channel.
This chance correspondence leads to Juliet discovering the existence of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, a book club formed during the German occupation of the island.
Film adaptation and director Mike Newell
The film adaptation of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society was released in 2018, directed by Mike Newell, who is known for his work on films such as Four Weddings and a Funeral and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.
The film stars Lily James as Juliet Ashton, Michiel Huisman as Dawsey Adams, and an ensemble cast that brings the beloved characters from the book to life.
Film summary and notable differences from the book
The film follows the same storyline as the book, with Juliet Ashton receiving a letter from Dawsey Adams and becoming intrigued by the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.
As she learns more about the society and its members, she decides to visit Guernsey to meet them face-to-face.
However, there are a few notable differences between the book and the film, such as the inclusion of additional scenes and characters that help to flesh out the story and add further depth to the relationships between the characters.
One significant difference is the increased focus on the romantic subplot between Juliet and Dawsey, which is more subtle in the book.
Additionally, some characters, such as Isola Pribby and Eben Ramsey, have more prominent roles in the film than in the book, providing additional layers of complexity to the story.
Meet the cast: Who’s who in the film
The film adaptation features a talented cast that brings the characters from the book to life.
Lily James stars as the protagonist, Juliet Ashton, a writer who becomes fascinated by the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.
Michiel Huisman portrays Dawsey Adams, the islander who first contacts Juliet and introduces her to the society. Other notable cast members include:
- Jessica Brown Findlay as Elizabeth McKenna, the founder of the society
- Matthew Goode as Sidney Stark, Juliet’s publisher and close friend
- Katherine Parkinson as Isola Pribby, a quirky member of the society
- Tom Courtenay as Eben Ramsey, an elderly member of the society
- Penelope Wilton as Amelia Maugery, a reserved and protective member of the society
Parent guide: Is ‘The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society’ suitable for all ages?
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a historical drama that deals with themes of war, occupation, and loss.
While the film does not contain explicit violence or language, it does cover some emotionally intense topics that may not be suitable for very
young viewers.
However, the film is rated PG-13 and is generally appropriate for teenagers and adults who can handle the more mature themes.
Setting the scene: When and where the story takes place
The story is set in 1946, shortly after the end of World War II.
The primary location is Guernsey, an island in the English Channel that was occupied by German forces during the war.
The book and film also feature scenes set in London, where Juliet Ashton lives and works as a writer.
The historical context of the story is essential, as it shapes the experiences of the characters and provides a backdrop for their personal struggles and triumphs.
The setting of Guernsey is particularly significant, as it is a unique and picturesque location that adds a sense of beauty and charm to the story.
Exploring film locations and their significance
The film adaptation of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society was shot on location in both Guernsey and various parts of the United Kingdom.
Some of the key locations featured in the film include:
- Guernsey itself, providing an authentic backdrop to the story
- Bristol, England, which was used for some of the London scenes
- Clovelly, Devon, which served as the fictional village of St. Peter Port in Guernsey
- Hartland, Devon, where the dramatic cliff-top scenes were filmed
- Saunton Sands, Devon, which was used as the beach location in the film
These locations contribute to the film’s visual appeal and help to bring the story to life, immersing the viewer in the world of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.
Memorable quotes from the book and film
Both the book and the film adaptation are filled with memorable quotes that capture the essence of the story and its characters.
Some of the most notable quotes include:
- “I wonder how the book got to Guernsey? Perhaps there is some secret sort of homing instinct in books that brings them to their perfect readers.” – Juliet Ashton
- “We clung to books and to our friends; they reminded us that we had another part to us.” – Eben Ramsey
- “Reading good books ruins you for enjoying bad books.” – Isola Pribby
- “I don’t want to be married just to be married. I can’t think of anything lonelier than spending the rest of my life with someone I can’t talk to, or worse, someone I can’t be silent with.” – Juliet Ashton
These quotes serve as a testament to the power of literature and the importance of friendship and love in the lives of the characters.
Where to watch ‘The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society’ – streaming, download and DVD options
The movie is currently available to stream on various online platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Disney Plus and Netflix.
The movie is also available on DVD and Blu-ray; nice idea for a gift to a ‘The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society’s fan.
The enchanting soundtrack by Alexandra Harwood
The film’s soundtrack, composed by Alexandra Harwood, plays a crucial role in setting the tone of the story and enhancing the viewer’s emotional connection to the characters and events.
The score features a mix of classical and contemporary pieces that beautifully complement the film’s historical setting and emotional themes.
The music adds an additional layer of depth and charm to the film, making it a memorable and captivating experience.
‘The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society’ screenplay by Kevin Hood, Don Roos and Tom Bezucha, analysis, and where to download it
Kevin Hood, Don Roos and Tom Bezucha wrote the screenplay for Mike Newell’s The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, doing an excellent job of bringing the story to life on the screen.
While there were some changes made to accommodate the format of a movie, the screenplay does a good job of capturing the essence of the story.
The screenplay is available for download online, and it is a must-read for anyone interested in screenwriting or movie-making.
The screenplay provides insight into Kevin Hood, Don Roos and Tom Bezucha’s creative process and his approach to storytelling.
Curiosities and lesser-known facts about the book and film
- The book was Mary Ann Shaffer’s first and only novel, as she passed away before its publication. Her niece, Annie Barrows, completed the book in her stead.
- The title of the book and film refers to an actual potato peel pie recipe that the characters create during the German occupation, when food was scarce.
- The film’s release coincided with the 70th anniversary of the liberation of the Channel Islands from German occupation.
- The character of Isola Pribby was inspired by a real-life Guernsey resident who lived through the occupation.
Tips for cosplay: Dressing like your favorite characters
If you’re a fan of the book or film and want to dress like your favorite characters, here are some tips to help you recreate their looks:
- Juliet Ashton: Opt for 1940s-style dresses or skirts and blouses, paired with vintage hats and gloves. Don’t forget a pair of classic heels and a stylish handbag.
- Dawsey Adams: Choose a simple, understated outfit consisting of trousers, a button-down shirt, and a waistcoat. Complete the look with a pair of sturdy boots and a flat cap.
- Elizabeth McKenna: Embrace feminine, vintage-style dresses with floral patterns and lace accents. Accessorize with a delicate necklace and a pair of Mary Jane shoes.
- Mark Reynolds: Go for a dapper, polished look with a tailored suit, a crisp white shirt, and a tie. Finish the ensemble with a pair of dress shoes and a pocket square.
Gadgets and collectibles related to ‘The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society’
If you’re a fan of ‘The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society’, there are several gadgets and collectibles that you may be interested in, such as action figures, posters, t-shirts, and other memorabilia.
These items make great gifts for fans of the book or movie.
Video games inspired by The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
While there are currently no video games directly inspired by The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, fans interested in experiencing a similar atmosphere can explore games set during World War II or those that emphasize storytelling and character development.
Titles such as “Valiant Hearts: The Great War,” “Brothers in Arms,” and “The Book of Unwritten Tales” provide immersive, engaging experiences that may appeal to fans of the book and film.
Aboutthe authors: Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
Mary Ann Shaffer was born in West Virginia, USA, in 1934.
She worked as an editor, librarian, and bookseller before becoming a writer.
The idea for The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society came to her while she was visiting London in the early 1980s.
She became fascinated by the history of the Channel Islands during World War II and began researching the topic extensively. Sadly, Shaffer passed away in 2008, just months before the book was published.
Annie Barrows, Shaffer’s niece, completed the book after her aunt’s death.
Barrows is also a writer and has authored several books for children and young adults, including the popular “Ivy and Bean” series.
Barrows has spoken about the challenges of finishing her aunt’s work and has expressed her admiration for Shaffer’s writing style and storytelling abilities.
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society: Ending explained
Warning: Spoilers ahead
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society culminates in a heartwarming and satisfying conclusion.
Juliet Ashton decides to move to Guernsey permanently and marry Dawsey Adams, whom she has fallen in love with. The society continues to meet and read books, and the islanders rebuild their lives after the war.
The final scene shows Juliet and Dawsey walking along the beach, hand in hand, as they begin their new life together.
When does ‘The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society 2’ come out ? Sequel updates
Given the huge success of ‘The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society 2’, we are all waiting for the release date of the sequel or the announcement of a spin-off of the movie.
They do that about anything now, I don’t see why they wouldn’t do it about The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.
In recent months, some statements by Mike Newell and Lily James hint at an imminent date on the release of ‘The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society 2’, and we will keep you updated as soon as we have a firm date.
While waiting for the official release of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society’ new chapter, you could relive the emotions and mood of the movie by reading the book ‘The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society’ or Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows’s other books.
Other films by Mike Newell to explore
If you enjoyed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society and want to explore more of director Mike Newell’s work, here are some other films to check out:
- Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994)
- Donnie Brasco (1997)
- Mona Lisa Smile (2003)
- Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)
- Love in the Time of Cholera (2007)
Similar films and books to The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
If you’re looking for similar films and books that capture the charm and heart of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, here are some recommendations:
- The Bookshop by Penelope Fitzgerald
- The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
- The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
- Brooklyn by Colm Toibin
- The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman
- The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir by Jennifer Ryan
Conclusion
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a captivating and heartwarming story that has captured the hearts of readers and viewers around the world.
The book and film adaptation provide a unique perspective on life during World War II and the power of literature to bring people together.
From the enchanting soundtrack to the memorable characters, this story has something for everyone.
Whether you’re a fan of historical dramas or just looking for a heartwarming tale, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is not to be missed.
