The JM Barrie Ladies Swimming Society Barbara Zitwer (2000) - Plot & Excerpts
30/8 - Good start so far. The talk of the upcoming renovation of Stanway House (J.M. Barrie was inspired to write Peter Pan by the house) reminds me of the UK shows of ordinary people renovating their newly bought stately and heritage listed homes - Grand Designs, Restoration Home, My Dream Derelict Home et al. I love those shows, so if the book focuses on that part of the plot I'm sure I'll enjoy this just as much. To be continued...3/9 - A really enjoyable chick-litish book revolving around the main character's supervision of the renovation of Stanway House. While in the Cotswolds Joey meets a number of colourful characters, including a group of senior citizens who swim at the local pond/lake no matter the weather. One particular lady stood out for me, Aggie - I could definitely see this being made into a movie and Maggie Smith playing her.This wasn't 'literature', and it may not have had the most accurate description of life in England (this view was taken from other reviewers complaints of inaccuracies that someone, me, not well-versed in horses or English life failed to notice), but I thought it nice light-hearted fun. I do wish there had been more discussion of the renovation of Stanway House as that's what drew me to the book to begin with, but "Oh well.". Book Club choice. There are many inconsistances and what some would call flaws with this book. It takes the first 50 pages to get into but then you are hooked. The author tries very hard to draw analogies between the main character's life and Peter Pan which were lost on me and anyone who is not familiar with Peter Pan. But the ultimate story is about dealing with grief and friendships that span decades; love lost & found; coming of age. I enjoyed this book.
What do You think about The JM Barrie Ladies Swimming Society Barbara Zitwer (2000)?
A gentle read about female friendship and new love. An enjoyable escape.
—loqylass
Should authors be allowed to write something so lame?
—vriti1D
