The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

movie2018

68%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

A cozy WWII book-club drama that's sweet as pie—but moves slower than a 1940s telegram.

82%

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The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society

movie

M, 2018

68%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

A cozy WWII book-club drama that's sweet as pie—but moves slower than a 1940s telegram.

82%

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Screenwise Verdict

This is a warm, well-made period drama that celebrates books, community, and resilience—basically catnip for literary tweens and their book-club moms. The WWII setting is handled thoughtfully, and the film models empathy and courage without being preachy.

But let's be real: it's slow. Like, "watch the kettle boil" slow. The pacing is deliberate, the tone is genteel, and the whole thing feels like a cozy Sunday afternoon in 1946. Kids raised on Marvel and TikTok may tap out after 20 minutes. Even those who love historical fiction might need to be in the right mood.

If your kid already devours period pieces or has read the book, this is a solid, enriching pick. If they're lukewarm on slow-burn dramas, save this for a rainy day when they're feeling patient—or skip it entirely.

Age Fit

Best for ages 12-16 who already enjoy historical fiction, period dramas, or literary adaptations. Younger kids will likely find it slow and dull; older teens may find it too quaint unless they're into cozy, book-nerd vibes.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

A gentle, emotionally healthy period drama centered on friendship, community resilience, and healing after war. Models kindness, cooperation, and the power of literature to bring people together. The tone is warm and life-affirming, with characters supporting each other through grief and loss. Pacing is deliberate and calm—no chaos or manufactured drama.

Imaginative

Based on a beloved novel, the film celebrates books and storytelling as transformative forces. The premise—a quirky book club formed during Nazi occupation—is charming and original. However, it's more character-driven than visually or conceptually inventive. It invites curiosity about history and literature but doesn't push creative boundaries or inspire hands-on exploration the way other imaginative media might.

Safe

Common Sense Media rates it 12+, which aligns with its WWII setting. The film references Nazi occupation and loss (including a character's death during the war), but handles these themes with restraint—no graphic violence, gore, or disturbing imagery. There's mild romantic tension and some emotional weight around grief, but nothing shocking or inappropriate for tweens and up. It's a period drama, so expectations are set appropriately.

Enriching

Strong on empathy-building and historical insight—kids learn about WWII's impact on occupied Channel Islands, the power of community, and how literature can sustain people through hardship. The film models courage, integrity, and the importance of storytelling. Solid entertainment value for those who enjoy character-driven period pieces, though it won't grip everyone. Offers meaningful takeaways about resilience and connection.

Parent Info

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Why It Might Be Great

Celebrates the power of books, community, and storytelling in the face of hardship—great for kids who love reading
Introduces the lesser-known history of Nazi-occupied Channel Islands in an accessible, human way
Emotionally intelligent and kind-hearted, with characters who model resilience, empathy, and courage
High-quality production with gorgeous cinematography and a stellar cast (Lily James, Michiel Huisman)

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What to Watch For

WWII themes include Nazi occupation, rationing, and references to a character's death—handled gently but still emotionally heavy
Slow, old-fashioned pacing that feels more like a cozy Sunday afternoon than a page-turner—modern kids may find it boring
Romantic subplot is chaste but central; best for tweens/teens who don't mind a little swooning

Conversation Starters

"Why do you think the book club was so important to the people of Guernsey during the war?"
"If you had to pick one book to share with a group during hard times, what would it be and why?"
"How do you think living under occupation would change everyday life? What would be hardest for you?"
"Juliet makes a big choice about where to live and who to be with—what do you think she values most?"

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