In the misunderstanding that ensues, Miss Pettigrew exhibits immense presence of mind and efficiency in helping Miss La Fosse out of several scrapes, most of which involve young men. Miss Pettigrew thinks she is applying for the post of a governess and Delysia requires a maid to keep her affairs in order. Miss Pettigrew is mistakenly sent by the employment agency, to the apartment of young singer and aspiring actress Miss Delysia LaFosse. The day starts quite drearily with Miss Pettigrew desperately seeking a job to avoid being thrown out of her abode.

This Persephone Classic, recounts the events of the most remarkable day in the life of Miss Guinevere Pettigrew. To take a look at other books published in the same year, reviewed by other bloggers, please take a look at this blogpost and this one. I am reviewing this book as part of the #1938club, initiated by Simon David Thomas of Stuck in a Book and Karen of Kaggsy’s Bookish Ramblings. Laughing and thinking about this passage from Winifred Watson’s memorable novel ‘Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day’ (1938). Why men waste money getting drunk on that, when they can get a really cheap palatable drink like lemon squash …!’ ‘Ugh!’ thought Miss Pettigrew, disappointed. She slipped her class surreptitiously on the table. ‘Where were you brought up?’ commiserated Michael. I’ve never had it, ever, even when I’ve had a cold, as medicine.’ I always wanted to taste whiskey,’ said Miss Pettigrew happily.

Miss pettigrew book