Bookmarks Subscribers discussion

from the September/October issue

This was a fun little book of letters sent from the witty Helene Hanff to a small bookstore in England over a period of more than ten years starting in the late 1940s. The letters begin as simple correspondence as a means to obtain VERY particular books (most that as an English major I wouldn't have wanted to pick up), but Helene develops a relationship over time with the bookstore owner, employees, and their families, which is unveiled as time progresses. It was a very quick read and I would recommend it to any book lover.

Anne Bancroft loved this book so much, her husband purchased the rights to it and she starred in the film version. I have a hard time imagining this book as a movie, but I like Anne Bancroft, so who knows. The copy I read was an anniversary edition and she had written the introduction (otherwise I would never had known any of this!)

You could easily read this book in an hour or so, so if you are looking for something quick...it's a good one!

There is at least one other book by Hanff, possibly two, I don't remember, that continues on after 84, Charing Cross. She visits the store in the later book(s). I haven't read those yet, still on the lookout..

I got the movie thru Netflix and was somewhat disappointed with it - the book was so much better. Sometimes the events and people in books should be left to your imagination IMHO.

Ooh...thanks for the info! I would be curious to read those. Going to search Goodreads right now!

If you liked 84, Charing Cross you need to read The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. It's very similar in concept and very well written.

I just picked it up from my library yesterday! I had it on hold and they called me to let me know it had arrived. I plan on starting it as soon as I get off of the computer tonight - I have heard fantastic things about it.

Stephanie wrote: "from the September/October issue

This was a fun little book of letters sent from the witty Helene Hanff to a small bookstore in England over a period of more than ten years starting in the late 19..."

I haven't read the book, but did see the movie and LOVED it. I'm not sure how it compares to the book, but give the movie a try.

Was this really reviewed in a 2006 Bookmarks - it's got to be years older than that. Or was it referred to when reviewing another book?

I think someone mentioned in their submitted "Have you read?" list.