When this book was first suggested as our book club read, I had never heard of it before and my first thought was, “What kind of name is that?” Little did I know that this book is actually extremely popular and highly rated. I’m glad I knew nothing of it, because I had no expectations going in.

The story is set in immediate post-WWII Britain. It revolves around Juliet, a woman in her early 30’s who has recently published a successful novel. She receives a letter from a man named Dawsey who lives on the British island of Guernsey, which is the only part of England that was occupied by the Nazis during the war. Dawsey bought a used book that had Juliet’s name and address inside, and he writes her to ask questions about the author. Juliet begins a correspondence with him, and subsequently with Dawsey’s neighbors and friends as well. Through this we learn all about the lives of the inhabitants of Guernsey during the occupation, and how literature helped them through it.

The book is made up entirely of letters between the characters, all who are extremely witty. I’m kind of in love with some of them. Though it may be a tad unrealistic, it is charming and adorable to read. And, thank goodness, there is a happy ending–my favorite kind. The whole thing made me want to sit down and write long, handwritten letters to strangers. (I won’t do that, though. My husband wouldn’t approve.)

I give it 4 out of 5 stars, and definitely recommend it as a quick and enjoyable read. (For the record, some of my real-life book club members loved this book even more than I did.)