Light a Penny Candle : Book Review

"Light a Penny Candle" by Maeve Binchy is a captivating novel that takes place against the backdrop of World War II and post-war Ireland. The story revolves around the unlikely friendship between Elizabeth White and Aisling O'Connor, who become close when Elizabeth is evacuated from London to live with Aisling's family in Kilgarret.

Elizabeth is a reserved and introverted girl, while Aisling is outgoing and lively. Despite their differences, they quickly develop a deep and lasting friendship that will shape their lives for years to come. As they navigate the challenges and hardships of wartime, their bond only grows stronger.

Binchy skillfully portrays the complexity of their relationship and the growth of the characters as they face the trials of adolescence and adulthood. The novel explores themes of love, family, loss, and forgiveness, providing a heartfelt exploration of the human experience.

Spanning over several decades, the narrative allows readers to witness the lives of the characters unfold and intertwine with others in the tight-knit community of Kilgarret. Binchy's descriptive and evocative writing style brings the setting to life, immersing readers in the vivid details of life during wartime and the subsequent years of rebuilding.

"Light a Penny Candle" is a compelling and poignant tale that showcases Binchy's storytelling prowess. The well-developed and relatable characters, along with the captivating plot and vivid historical setting, keep readers engrossed from beginning to end. Fans of historical fiction and those who appreciate emotionally-driven narratives will find themselves thoroughly absorbed in this beautifully crafted story.

What are readers saying?

Light a Penny Candle by Maeve Binchy is a highly acclaimed novel that has garnered widespread praise for its heartwarming story. Set against the backdrop of World War II and its aftermath, the book follows two young girls named Elizabeth and Aisling as they navigate the challenges of life. Themes of friendship, love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit are deeply explored throughout the narrative.

Readers have been captivated by Binchy's exceptional storytelling abilities and her skill in depicting the essence of Irish life and culture. The characters in the book are praised for their depth and complexity, as reviewers found them to be relatable and well-developed. Readers found themselves truly invested in their lives and thoroughly engaged in their personal journeys.

The historical context is vividly brought to life through Binchy's powerful descriptions of wartime London and rural Ireland, earning much praise from readers. The author seamlessly weaves together the personal stories of Elizabeth and Aisling, while also shedding light on the larger societal changes occurring during this tumultuous period of history.

Binchy's writing style has been widely celebrated for its warmth and accessibility. Readers found her prose to be evocative, immersive, and easy to follow, resulting in an enjoyable reading experience. The pacing of the book is lauded for its effective balance between poignant moments and lighter, uplifting ones.

The underlying themes of friendship and resilience struck a chord with readers, evoking a range of emotions throughout the book. Many reviewers expressed how they experienced laughter, joy, sadness, and deep reflection while reading. Binchy's ability to delve into the complexities of human relationships and portray the strength of the human spirit is highly commended.

LightAPennyCandle IrishLiterature FriendshipNovel