Cranford

I read Cranford last year and liked it well enough. Imagine "Anne of Green Gables": likeable main character, small town, charming everyday life. But now subtract Gilbert, add about 50 years to her age and create for her interactions only with small town residents, other older women. Quaint; but even with Gaskell's exceptional writing, it needs a plot to get you through.

But it was originally published one story at a time in a newspaper column. Only later were they compiled into a book. So plot, that thing that keeps you reading, Cranford really doesn't have that. Though I did finish it. For Book Club's sake I think.

THAT SAID, this movie series is excellent--markedly more engaging than the book. It still contains the charm, but draws upon several other of Gaskell's writing to provide the missing plot. And with plot was also added, of course, a few sweet love stories.

Also, I think just about anything with Imelda Staunton in it has to be enjoyable. I'm watching the fifth and final episode later today so I'll see how it all ties together. But I give it my stamp of approval.