'Major Pettigrew's Last Stand' by Helen Simonson - Book Review

Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson is a delightful novel that takes place in modern day Britain, but has old world charm. When Major Pettigrew's brother dies suddenly, it opens the door for an unexpected friendship with Mrs. Ali, the local shopkeeper who is Pakistani. As their relationship blossoms, Major must confront attitudes about class and race within himself and the community. Major Pettigrew's Last Stand touches on important topics, but is first and foremost a fun and beautiful story. I highly recommend it.

Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson is becoming a book club favorite, and I can see why. It is an easy read, but it is not fluff. It has characters you will enjoy and enough plot to keep the pages turning. It raises issues about race and class, but it is not a heavy book.

One of the things I most appreciated about Major Pettigrew's Last Stand was that it left me feeling good and hopeful about life. In this way, as well as in its setting and characters, it reminded me of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. One person in my book club commented that Major Pettigrew made her want to be honorable. It was, indeed, a pleasure to read about characters who demonstrate integrity despite their flaws.

If you want something extremely deep or literary, you might be disappointed with this novel. But if you are looking for a fun read that is more substantial than "beach reading," Major Pettigrew's Last Stand is a good choice.

Disclosure: A review copy was provided by the publisher. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.