Super Short Summary

In Helen Simonson's 2010 novel, Major Pettigrew's Last Stand, the retired Major Ernest Pettigrew’s quiet life in the small English town of Edgecombe St. Mary is disturbed by his brother’s death. He befriends Mrs. Jasmina Ali, a Pakistani shopkeeper, leading to several marriage entanglements and conflicts over his brother's inheritance. The narrative explores themes of national identity, culture, and the impact of racism. The book includes instances of racism and themes involving grief and loss.