Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Reading: 'The Small Bachelor' by P.G.Wodehouse

How have I not read any P.G.Wodehouse before now? Not only has he written almost 100 books and invented famous characters such as Jeeves, but his writing is pretty much the funniest, wittiest, British-y-est, um, ever! Seriously. He's been referenced in so many books that I've read that I finally decided to demystify this gentleman's text by picking up a copy of The Small Bachelor and I haven't been able to put it down very much since making that most excellent decision. 

The story takes place in New York during Prohibition but the emphasis isn't so much on plot as it is on creating brilliant characters who make you smile and even laugh and feel kind of good about the world, while still retaining your dignity. I've never laughed while reading in a coffee shop before, but this book caused me to do so multiple times. Some of the characters fall in love, rather quickly, and the way Wodehouse draws their emotions, actions, earnestness, mannerisms, etc. is just brilliant and completely delightful. Smart, witty, and comical in a warm-hearted way.

Basically, I can't wait to read the rest of his books!

2 comments:

  1. Try "A Damsel in Distress" - it's the latest P.G. Wodehouse I've read and one of my favs! And of course, any of the Jeeves or Blandings books. You're going to have so much fun with these! Enjoy! :)

    Also, the Jeeves and Wooster TV series with Hugh Laurie and Stephan Fry is awesome - check it out!

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  2. Thank you for the recommendations, Jessie!

    I can't wait to read (and watch) all of those! :-)

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