Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day

By: Winifred Watson

Absolutely charming.

We usually try to review newer books at Prescott eNews, but Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day was made into a movie, which was released this spring. I was curious to find out how a 70 year old book would stand up to current day tastes. So it seemed appropriate to give the 1938 book a read.

When the book was published, it was thought to be quite scandalous. They do mention cocaine, but it is quickly washed down the drain, and one man socks another a couple of times but it’s to defend his girls’ honor. The characters lead, by the standard of the times, wild lives in pre-war London. Watson wrote what were called “women’s novels” and they were a bit risqué for the times. When “Miss Pettigrew” was re-released in 2000 Watson gave an interview to The Times of London. The title of the article was “Bodice Ripping Fame at 94 .” 

The appeal of the book comes from Miss Pettigrew herself. She is totally likable and interesting character because of her honesty and innocence. She’s a spinster 30-something year old governess, sent to the wrong address for a job. She is quickly pulled into the life of the beautiful nightclub singer and her life, which is a polar opposite to her life. The nightclub singer has a beautiful apartment, a fully stocked pantry and 3 boyfriends. Miss Pettigrew is, at that moment homeless, doesn’t know where her next meal is coming from, and has never even been kissed. She spends a lot of time thinking about the strict upbringing she received from her minister father, and mother, who told her everything from make-up to basically enjoying yourself, was un-lady like. Miss Pettigrew feels this is the only day in her life that will be fun, and she savors each and every moment.

The book takes place in one day, and each chapter is titled with the time. You get to see what is going on in Miss Pettigrew’s mind, and half the time she isn’t really sure herself. But the book is funny, light, and has an interesting plot. Life in 1938 was oh so much simpler than today. Even though the characters seem to be constantly on the move, they do take the time to sit down for a “spot of tea” and analyze what is going one in their lives.

Though I haven’t seen the film yet, after reading the book it’s very clear why they wanted to make a movie from it. The characters are all extremely compelling, the plot keeps you guessing on a lot of points, and they all live happily ever after. What more could a person want?

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