May 25, 2010

• Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand

  Never say never.

  That’s what I learned from reading Helen Simonson’s first novel, Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand.

   

  Against the backdrop of resisting new construction in the village of Edgecombe St Mary, two traditionalists find themselves acting very progressively.  The story and writing remind me of a combination of James McBride’s The Color of Water and Jan Karon’s Mitford because touchy issues are discussed in such a charming way that one forgets prejudice.

   

  Early in the novel the author establishes atmosphere by referencing two fine artists:  W.A. Bouguereau, a 19th century French painter and Rudyard Kipling, 20th century British author.  The former’s composition entitled, Childhood Idyll, graces the foyer of the town hall; and the latter’s writings serve as common ground for two very different people.

  Ernest, the male protagonist, who is indeed earnest, and Jasmina, the female main character, whose aromatic personality makes everyone feel better, fall in love and overcome the odds associated with ethnic stigma.  In the same way that the two beautiful girls in Bouguereau’s painting are enjoying the English countryside and each other’s company, do Ernest and Jasmina forge a relationship while reading aloud verses of Kipling’s Sussex.

  However, beware of the storm cloud in the distance.

  But do consider adding this first novel to your summer reading list.

   

  Click on this link to read the poem and see the painting.

   

   

   

  • 8:37 am
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