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84 Charing Cross Road (1970)

by Helene Hanff(Favorite Author)

4.23 of 5 Votes: 5

ISBN

1844085244 (ISBN13: 9781844085248)

languge

English

genre

Memoir & Autobiography

publisher

Virago Press LTD

review 1: Very interesting to read the book (collection of letters not written as an epistolary novel) that was made into film with Anthony Hopkins and Anne Bancroft that is somewhat of a classic (among book nerds and Hopkins fans). (I know that last sentence had two parentheticals. I'm sorry). First, 84 Charing Cross is a delightful and rather slight read that because the letters are real captures an authentic slice of life after World War II. I couldn't help but think, they did this in the movie, based on these letters? Nothing too bad but Frank's very friendly (n real life) wife Nora was recast as the dramatic tension (Frank's vibrant correspondence with Helene versus cold fish wife). Then I read The Duchess of Bloomsbury Street, also included in this paperback version and would ... moreconsider that the true, fuller voice of Helene Hanff. It recounts, pretty much as journal, her trip to England after the publication of 84 Charing Cross. She is being treated like (minor) literary royalty. Which got me thinking about what had made the book so popular, was it because it was extraordinary for the times? Her trip was before the movie version eclipsed the actual work. Lots to ponder and glad I've finally read the source material.
review 2: Helen Hanff is such a wonderful woman. After reading 84 Charing Cross Road and The Duchess of Bloomsbury Street, I felt like she was my best friend. Then when I went to London in 2012 I carried this little book around with me, opening it up to relevant passages when visiting certain places like St. Paul's Cathedral and Oxford university. I wanted to experience London with her by my side. I have gone on to read all of Helene's books, and treasure them. She writes with a perfect combination of wit, honesty, humour and sentimentality. This book will change your life. less

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