Miss Pettigrew Lives For A Day

This was the very first Persephone Book that I came across, and possibly my favourite, too. I say possibly because it is very hard to choose a favourite when everything that I have read from this publisher has been an utter joy. When I first heard a rumour that this utterly scrumptious book was going to be made into a film I was so pleased, but also a little worried, because the cinema here in Chelmsford does not tend to show anything that is not a mainstream blockbuster.

Having discovered that the film was to be released last Friday, I was so excited, but my hopes were dashed when I discovered that indeed, it was not to be shown at our cinema. Happily though, there is a more enlightened cinema a few towns over, and lovely, lovely Carl took me to see it on Friday. (I did say that it would be quite ok for him to see a different film while I watched Miss Pettigrew alone, but he insisted, and although declared it 'very girly' enjoyed it too). I was a little apprehensive because I was a little worried about what they may have done to this wonderful book, and because on the drive over I read a very negative review about it.

What can I say, but I came out wanting to go right back in and watch it again! It really sparkles, Amy Adams is a delight as the frothy Delysia, and Frances McDormand was very good too. She wasn't the Miss Pettigrew that I had in my mind, but I found her interpretation interesting, and although the film does not follow the book exactly, it really does capture the spirit, and if you get the chance to see it, do, do, do!

If you visit here http://www.persephonebooks.co.uk/letter.htm (you want the 30 July letter) you can listen to a snippet from the audiobook, and indeed, you can order a copy of the book itself too, should the mood take you....

While I was at the cinema, I ordered a cup of tea to take in with me, and while I was waiting, I picked up one of those free little posters for the film, which described it as 'A Sparkling Champagne Cocktail of a Film' which I completely agree with....although it has left me with a hankering for a champagne cocktail to drink!