It appears that we have hit upon another novel that the group as a whole have enjoyed. All of those who were at the meeting, plus those who sent email feedback, gave Clare Pooley's "The People on Platform 5" the thumbs up.
In summary, it was felt that the characters were relatable and well-rounded, the story was fun and easy to read, there was no plot as such, but each character had an engaging and interesting storyline, the diverse cast and range of ages gave for a good coverage of viewpoints, and the working in of more serious topics (such as ageism, bullying, mental health issues, homophobia etc.) was well done.
Most people liked the main character of Iona and found her fun and at the centre of everything, a catalyst for change. Finding out about her personal circumstances was unexpected and well handled.
Iona Iverson's rules for commuting:
· You must have a job to go to
· Don't consume hot food
· Always pack for any eventuality
· You must never speak to strangers on the train
· You must have a job to go to
· Don't consume hot food
· Always pack for any eventuality
· You must never speak to strangers on the train
Most people felt that Piers was the character who changed the most throughout the story and was probably the one that we had more assumptions about at the start of the book.
Some of us liked the character of Martha and enjoyed the younger person's perspective on things.
As expected, the story reminded all of us about our times commuting on the trains, the characters that we observed and the friends that we made.
Many of the group have already read other books by Clare Pooley and others among us are very willing to read more from her.
The next book to be read will be "Love in a Cold Climate" by Nancy Mitford.
This will be discussed on Friday 13th March 2026.
14:52, 18 Feb 2026
by Paula Cottrell