Major Ernest Pettigrew lives a quiet life in Edgecombe St.
Mary, a small village in the English countryside. He bases his life on duty, honor and
family traditions, his most important values. At first, he seems a bit stodgy and rigid, but as the book progresses, he is forced to take a closer look at what is really important in life.
His younger brother’s death leads to an encounter with Mrs.
Ali, who is the Pakistani owner of the local food shop. She helps him deal with
his grief, and they slowly develop a friendship based on a shared interest in
literature, and their common bond as widow and widower. The fact that they both
love a good cup of tea doesn’t hurt!
Major Pettigrew is 68 and Mrs. Ali is 58, and both are
dealing with a younger generation whose values and behaviors are quite
different from theirs. As their friendship deepens into more, they also have to
overcome obstacles from a society that considers the difference in their
classes, cultures and ages insurmountable. But they persist, and in the end find a way
through it all.
Both characters are immensely appealing. Witty and
endearing, they slowly seep into your consciousness and make you want to read
more about them. A most satisfying read.
384 pages
