Book Review: Q's Legacy by Helene Hanff

Q’s Legacy
by Helene Hanff (B H1907q)

One of the most memorable books I have ever read is titled 84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff. Not only did she have a big hit with the release of this book, but it also became a hit play in London, then later went on to Broadway, and finally a film. Helene Hanff was a playwright and writer who took charge of her own education by studying literature and essays recommended by Sir Arthur Quiller-Conch, Professor of English Literature at the University of Cambridge, England. Many of the books she wanted to read from Quiller-Conch’s list were not available in New York City, so she wrote to a small bookshop located in London at the address which became the title of her book. Thus began a long overseas relationship with the people who worked at this bookshop, their families, and Miss Hanff. The story doesn’t end there: Q’s Legacy goes into great detail about what led to the author’s years of self study and how that led to her becoming a well-known writer in her own right. Miss Hanff does eventually get to go to England and meet the people that she had only known through correspondence. Not only does she meet the Marks and Co. families; she also meets the fans who loved her book and want to share their favorite parts of England with her. Hanff gets to be part of the London stage production of her book (behind the scenes) and keeps a diary of her experiences to be made into another book later. This is a wonderful book for anyone who loves England, English literature and bookshops. I recommend that you read 84, Charing Cross Road first. Underfoot in Show Business is also biographical with more background about her attempts to get published.

 

(If you enjoy this, you may also wish to try 84, Charing Cross Road, Underfoot in Show Business or The Duchess of Bloomsbury Street , all by Helene Hanff.)

 

( Wikipedia entry for Helene Hanff )

 

Recommended by Kim J.
Bennett Martin Public Library — Public Service

 

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