I do appreciate the book. I find it thoroughly enjoyable. The chapters being not chapters at all, but letters, read a little like James Patterson’s magical modern formula: keep the segments short (his chapters are notoriously short, often even 3-4 pages). It’s enticing, because you think, “it’s only 3-4 pages, I can read another chapter.” Pretty soon, you’ve finished the book!
And actually, given that letters like that are a bit of a lost art, the book is even more endearing. People took a bit more time to collect their thoughts when writing such things, and the authors capture well the feel of all that.
Of course, as an historian, I was really enjoying the historical fiction elements, which I thought the authors did very well on. The occupation of those British islands—main one in particular—is a fascinating, if not particularly well known, aspect of the Second World War.
The part relayed by the famer about learning poetry to win a lady’s heart was amusing. Or perhaps something we men should pay more attention to, eh? :)
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention something about the Guernsey cattle, as my dad knew that (and a lot of others) cow type well, which people, if they know the name at all, know that.
The ways the populace resisted—and often outsmarted—the Germans, was interesting, and not uncommon. Populations tend to resist their occupiers when the hand is heavy, and a cat and mouse, counter and counter-counter situation develops.
I found the names entertaining and memorable. And the characters! As you said, you actually would enjoy meeting them, even the old Miss Addison. Well written her letter, but what an elitist! Although, I suppose, many people would agree with her today here in America on “lack of humility,” and “the decay of standards is the cross of our times.” :)
In a departure from the insufferable long-winded treatises I’ve been cranking, I believe I will take it slow and measured, and pick it up more next time. Back to you Madame!
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