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| December 2010- Reading. Meeting on Dec. 12th |
Amazon Best Books of the Month, March 2010: In her witty and wise debut novel, newcomer Helen Simonson introduces the unforgettable character of the widower Major Ernest Pettigrew. The Major epitomizes the Englishman with the "stiff upper lip," who clings to traditional values and has tried (in vain) to pass these along to his yuppie son, Roger. The story centers around Pettigrew's fight to keep his greedy relatives (including his son) from selling a valuable family heirloom--a pair of hunting rifles that symbolizes much of what he stands for, or at least what he thinks he does. The embattled hero discovers an unexpected ally and source of consolation in his neighbor, the Pakistani shopkeeper Jasmina Ali. On the surface, Pettigrew and Ali's backgrounds and life experiences couldn't be more different, but they discover that they have the most important things in common. This wry, yet optimistic comedy of manners with a romantic twist will appeal to grown-up readers of both sexes. Kudos to Helen Simonson, who distinguishes herself with Major Pettigrew's Last Stand as a writer with the narrative range, stylistic chops, and poise of a veteran. --Lauren Nemroff
Author Helen Simonson has done a wonderful job of taking us through the beautiful landscapes and architecture of present day English country side. With subtlety, intelligent wit and finesse she draws us into the manners, beliefs and prejudices of the British.
ReplyDeleteAlthough light and humorous in style, the book is loaded with thought provoking subplots where several current day social issues gently presented. For example, there are ample situations to demonstrate how society reacts to love or romance that falls beyond the current “norms” of age, culture, social class, nationality, and generations.
The array of situations with social disparity and intolerance within communities, cultures, and generations is glaring reality. Greed in its in various incarnations seems to be the biggest motivation of life so much that environmental conservation and animal rights are shoved under urban commercialization and game sports.
While everyone has their prejudices and justifications for their take on issues, do they ultimately realize what is of real value and what is not? Do they find their real self and self worth through these experiences?
Initially the book started off as laid back as the English country side, but once it picked up it was very interesting and enriching
Book Club - Review
ReplyDeletePlot/Style: – Every one enjoyed and liked the book.
Style:- The technicality of the subtle humor in the comedy of manners genre’ was laudable.
Setting:- Rural English setting was beautifully elucidated. Some felt that the plot would have fit very well in any political setting for that matter..
Charaterization:-
This generated a lot of interesting discussion. Each character could very well represent a certain demographic. Characters of the Major, Mrs. Ali, Abdul Wahid, Roger, Amina were discussed and debated upon in detail.
Social issues and prejudices about Love and the social disparities and prejudices were also discussed.