Our Yanks

Rating:
Summary: polym
Review: I couldn't wait to finish this book, and I was so sorry when I did! I found myself thinking about it between chapters and sneaking in just a few pages more when time didn't really permit. It's a wonderfully done book - if one could read a Merchant/Ivory film it would be somewhat like this, but with a bit more heart. I so hope this book gets the attention it deserves!

The cultural collide between British and American is handled with a fresh and engaging manner - most of the 'war' cliches are avoided - and there are so many details that flesh out the picture. Little things you wouldn't notice if they were glossed over, but that add immeasurably to the total picture. One of the most rewarding books I've read this year.

Rating:
Summary: Wonderful story, wonderful characters!
Review: I read this book on the recommendation of a friend and I am so glad I did! These people became my friends as I peeked into their lives and experiences. I rooted for, and sympathized with, so many of them. The author did a credible job of bringing the era and the characters to life. I could perfectly picture myself in the midst of this quaint village that had been "invaded" by the Yanks, turning it on its head and bringing it kicking and screaming into the 20th century. I liked that there were different shades to each character and the author made the motivations clear and believable. I cannot recommend this one highly enough, not just for those who love the era but also for anybody looking for a gripping, engaging story that will capture you for a long time after you have finished.

Rating:
Summary: Wonderful story, wonderful characters!
Review: I read this book on the recommendation of a friend and I am so glad I did! These people became my friends as I peeked into their lives and experiences. I rooted for, and sympathized with, so many of them. The author did a credible job of bringing the era and the characters to life. I could perfectly picture myself in the midst of this quaint village that had been "invaded" by the Yanks, turning it on its head and bringing it kicking and screaming into the 20th century. I liked that there were different shades to each character and the author made the motivations clear and believable. I cannot recommend this one highly enough, not just for those who love the era but also for anybody looking for a gripping, engaging story that will capture you for a long time after you have finished.

Rating:
Summary: Like going back in time
Review: This is a book that I have not been able to put down. Knowing a little bit about wartime England and having visited some small villages, this story rings so true. Ms Mayhew has all the village locals just right. The aloof matron of the manor, the crusty farmer who shares with no one, the parents who hide their emotions while silently grieving inside for lost or missing children. She has described them all perfectly.

You will find your favorite characters as I did. I loved the relationship with the young corporal and the maiden lady. Young Tom was a resourceful young man, who was learning at a young age how to be an entrepeneur. He was clearly the darling of the airbase.

Ms Mayhew leads us through the lives of some of the most endearing characters I have ever met in a book. Clearly, this is a book which shows an example of why that time was "Britain's finest hour."

The reader will find everything in this book. Romance, adventure, sadness, suspense, as well as the ravages of war and the hardships of rationing.

My only complaint, was that the book ended way too soon.