Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand #BookReview
Book: Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simonson
Genre: Novel
Publisher: Random House
Publication date: 2010
Pages: 358
Source: Borders, according to the sticker on the back. I guess it’s been on my TBR stack for a while!
Summary: Major Pettigrew, widower, has an unexpectedly deep encounter with Mrs. Jasmina Ali, widow — the first human he meets after learning about the death of his brother. Through the awkwardness of village life, clashing cultures, and unsatisfying familial relationships, the Major and Mrs. Ali bond over tea and literature.
Thoughts: Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand was on my To Be Read stack for several years. My “Year of Reading Books on England” finally got me to read it. I expected to take it to England with me, but we were worried about suitcase weight, so it got left out at the last moment. Fortunately, it was a delightful book to return home to — very English and very modern at the same time.
Appeal: This story has wide appeal. If you’re looking for a book about England, about mature love, about small town life, or about the immigrant experience, this is the book for you.
Have you read this book? What did you think?
I listened to the audiobook edition and loved it! It’s one that I never got around to reviewing, though, as seems to happen with so many audiobooks that I borrow from the library.
i loved this book. It was just the right combination of everything. And it gives a great sense of class and cultural politics in modern england.
I am almost finished this novel. It was on my TBR pile for a long time as well. Thoroughly enjoying it.