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 Customer Reviews
Rind - What Prince Charles Buys in the Pub, 20 Jun 2008
For fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue, this second volume of the Uxbridge English Dictionary will come as no surprise - an excellent book of word play and hilarity. And now that poor Humph has left us, this may become a unique item....depends what they do with the show. Excellent book, very funny, and guaranteed to make you laugh - a great tribute to the show...the best radio comedy show around. Highly recommended.....oh and one more definition....Propaganda....A good look :)
The funniest book I have EVER read!, 18 May 2008
Fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue will need no introduction to this collection - for everyone else all that I can give you is one "defination" - "Reincarnation - to be born again as a tin of condensed milk" - I am a cynical, hard bitten old sod but I cried tears of laughter when I read this book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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The Timewaster Letters
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Customer Reviews
Rind - What Prince Charles Buys in the Pub, 20 Jun 2008
For fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue, this second volume of the Uxbridge English Dictionary will come as no surprise - an excellent book of word play and hilarity. And now that poor Humph has left us, this may become a unique item....depends what they do with the show. Excellent book, very funny, and guaranteed to make you laugh - a great tribute to the show...the best radio comedy show around. Highly recommended.....oh and one more definition....Propaganda....A good look :)
The funniest book I have EVER read!, 18 May 2008
Fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue will need no introduction to this collection - for everyone else all that I can give you is one "defination" - "Reincarnation - to be born again as a tin of condensed milk" - I am a cynical, hard bitten old sod but I cried tears of laughter when I read this book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Absolutely hilarious book, 27 Sep 2008
A fabulously funny book. I laughed and LAUGHED and LAUGHed. My wife laughed so much a small bit of wee came out, but since having our second child, that does happen every 7 weeks or so.
For me, the enjoyment did not come from the letters being a `wind-up' - the author does not relish in making people seem foolish and does not ever really ridicule them. If they did subsequently read their own responses in the book, I think they'd see the funny side. The humour lies in the totally natural and unforced way the author writes about the bizarre, and his intelligent simple constructs in the correspondence. It avoids the lazy, artificially bizarre (hurling raw fish at a radiator) kind of comedy in favour of something more educated and rounded. The comedy reminded me of some of the more intelligent and less crude articles found in Viz, but a bit more grown-up.
The small details had me in hysterics. "Poor water boy" may not seem too hilarious, but in the context of the letter to the Belgian Ambassador, that single phrase had me howling for several (9) minutes and laughing the next morning (Thursday); at least I think it was Thursday because I remember seeing an offal lorry on that day.
Top notch, 25 Sep 2008
Cooper wasn't the first to embark on this genre but he's up there with the best. Funny, whimsical and wonderfully pointless. Henry Root is my all time favourite wind up merchant followed by The Raymond Delauney Emails, which is absolutely hilarious. Cooper's books are perfect for cheering you up on a day when you are feeling a little down.
Boring and really not funny, 27 Mar 2008
The idea for this book is rather simple: write silly letters to various companies and get them to play along with the game. It sounds interesting at first but I found it rather tedious. I had one or two giggles but there's nothing that really made me laugh out loud and I thought that the book lived up to it's title - it really is a timewaster! If you want cranks then I'd recommend watching Fonejacker, which is a very funny show with guaranteed laughs.
Ok - funny in parts, 23 Mar 2008
I bought this as a result of an Amazon recommendation after purchasing and enjoying a couple of Guy Browning books. Whereas they were laugh out loud hilarious, this is mildly amusing verging at times on the childish, but nonetheless, enjoyable to read during the tedium of a 2 hour commute; anything to lighten the day is a good thing, right?!
Hilarious, 20 Nov 2007
It isn't often that a book makes me laugh out loud, but this is genuinely, side-splittingly funny. I drove my husband mad with it, to the point where he too had to read it in sheer self-defence.
The premise is simple, Robin Cooper, the author, picks random institutions and writes them letters of astonishing absurdity in the hope that they will write back and a correspondence can then ensue. You would think, given the patent lunacy of many of his letters, that he would be roundly ignored, but luckily for us, he does get replies, and these with the original letters are what makes up this book.
My particular favourites are the letters in which diagrams of the most terrible, wobbly penned quality are sent out with the letters in illustration of some madly random point, and then these are actually taken seriously by the correspondent. Genius, pure genius.
I am now on my third copy, having lent and mysteriously never been given back my previous two. Be warned this is a book you think you will dip into and then accidentally end up reading in one sitting, howling with laughter.
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Customer Reviews
Rind - What Prince Charles Buys in the Pub, 20 Jun 2008
For fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue, this second volume of the Uxbridge English Dictionary will come as no surprise - an excellent book of word play and hilarity. And now that poor Humph has left us, this may become a unique item....depends what they do with the show. Excellent book, very funny, and guaranteed to make you laugh - a great tribute to the show...the best radio comedy show around. Highly recommended.....oh and one more definition....Propaganda....A good look :)
The funniest book I have EVER read!, 18 May 2008
Fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue will need no introduction to this collection - for everyone else all that I can give you is one "defination" - "Reincarnation - to be born again as a tin of condensed milk" - I am a cynical, hard bitten old sod but I cried tears of laughter when I read this book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Absolutely hilarious book, 27 Sep 2008
A fabulously funny book. I laughed and LAUGHED and LAUGHed. My wife laughed so much a small bit of wee came out, but since having our second child, that does happen every 7 weeks or so.
For me, the enjoyment did not come from the letters being a `wind-up' - the author does not relish in making people seem foolish and does not ever really ridicule them. If they did subsequently read their own responses in the book, I think they'd see the funny side. The humour lies in the totally natural and unforced way the author writes about the bizarre, and his intelligent simple constructs in the correspondence. It avoids the lazy, artificially bizarre (hurling raw fish at a radiator) kind of comedy in favour of something more educated and rounded. The comedy reminded me of some of the more intelligent and less crude articles found in Viz, but a bit more grown-up.
The small details had me in hysterics. "Poor water boy" may not seem too hilarious, but in the context of the letter to the Belgian Ambassador, that single phrase had me howling for several (9) minutes and laughing the next morning (Thursday); at least I think it was Thursday because I remember seeing an offal lorry on that day.
Top notch, 25 Sep 2008
Cooper wasn't the first to embark on this genre but he's up there with the best. Funny, whimsical and wonderfully pointless. Henry Root is my all time favourite wind up merchant followed by The Raymond Delauney Emails, which is absolutely hilarious. Cooper's books are perfect for cheering you up on a day when you are feeling a little down.
Boring and really not funny, 27 Mar 2008
The idea for this book is rather simple: write silly letters to various companies and get them to play along with the game. It sounds interesting at first but I found it rather tedious. I had one or two giggles but there's nothing that really made me laugh out loud and I thought that the book lived up to it's title - it really is a timewaster! If you want cranks then I'd recommend watching Fonejacker, which is a very funny show with guaranteed laughs.
Ok - funny in parts, 23 Mar 2008
I bought this as a result of an Amazon recommendation after purchasing and enjoying a couple of Guy Browning books. Whereas they were laugh out loud hilarious, this is mildly amusing verging at times on the childish, but nonetheless, enjoyable to read during the tedium of a 2 hour commute; anything to lighten the day is a good thing, right?!
Hilarious, 20 Nov 2007
It isn't often that a book makes me laugh out loud, but this is genuinely, side-splittingly funny. I drove my husband mad with it, to the point where he too had to read it in sheer self-defence.
The premise is simple, Robin Cooper, the author, picks random institutions and writes them letters of astonishing absurdity in the hope that they will write back and a correspondence can then ensue. You would think, given the patent lunacy of many of his letters, that he would be roundly ignored, but luckily for us, he does get replies, and these with the original letters are what makes up this book.
My particular favourites are the letters in which diagrams of the most terrible, wobbly penned quality are sent out with the letters in illustration of some madly random point, and then these are actually taken seriously by the correspondent. Genius, pure genius.
I am now on my third copy, having lent and mysteriously never been given back my previous two. Be warned this is a book you think you will dip into and then accidentally end up reading in one sitting, howling with laughter.
Not that funny, 11 Sep 2008
Easy read,funny in places but becomes a bit bland.
To say this book is hilarous is a bit over the top if you are looking for a quick and simple read it hits the spot.
A GOOD PICK UP PUT DOWN BOOK, 05 Dec 2007
This is a good little book if you're looking for something humorous that you don't have to get too involved in. It's one of those books that you can just pick up and read a bit of, then come back to later. Especially good for fans of flying. It consists of fictional letters to airlines, although it's easy to believe the letters are real. A harmless bit of fun - and don't we all need more of that?!
Wonderful, wonderful book., 27 Nov 2007
What a wonderful, wonderful book. Years ago I read the Henry Root letters and Air Mail is the equal of that book, if not better. Quite the funniest book I have ever read in years. My favourite letters are the Dear Qantas ones, but they're all funny.
Extremely funny, 09 Nov 2007
Very funny, the fact that it is all short 'stories' as such in the form of letters of complaint to airlines, makes it very easy to pick up and put down without losing the thread of the book. However saying that, I found it so difficult to put down that I finished the book in one day, more please! For me the funniest tales were the Air China and the Korean Air letters. Also the fact that the airlines takes these letters so seriously, makes for even better reading! I would not recommend reading this book in public as it makes you laugh out loud and you may alarm other members of the public who will think you slightly deranged!
Another reviewer took offence at this book, stating it was racist in places. My feelings are that yes some are, but they are meant to be and the basis of the joke is on the writer, showing up the letter writer in a humerous manner, I certainly was not offended by any of the material. I feel that anyone who thinks that they will enjoy this book will also probably enjoy David Charters books: At Bonus Time No One Can Hear You Scream and Trust Me I'm A Banker, absolutely hilarious!
Air Mail - Letters from the worl'd most troublesom passenger, 20 Aug 2007
This is possibly one of the best books I have ever read. It's not often that I find the type of magic thats contained in this book.
I wonder if my neighbours thought something mad was going on, due to cackling coming through the walls. I was infact crying! ha ha
Seriously this is a great book and has bought lots of smiles to myself and my friends. It's particularlly good if you work in aviation as it can be related to.
Brilliant 10 out of 10! - go on buy it, you know you want to!
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Customer Reviews
Rind - What Prince Charles Buys in the Pub, 20 Jun 2008
For fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue, this second volume of the Uxbridge English Dictionary will come as no surprise - an excellent book of word play and hilarity. And now that poor Humph has left us, this may become a unique item....depends what they do with the show. Excellent book, very funny, and guaranteed to make you laugh - a great tribute to the show...the best radio comedy show around. Highly recommended.....oh and one more definition....Propaganda....A good look :)
The funniest book I have EVER read!, 18 May 2008
Fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue will need no introduction to this collection - for everyone else all that I can give you is one "defination" - "Reincarnation - to be born again as a tin of condensed milk" - I am a cynical, hard bitten old sod but I cried tears of laughter when I read this book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Absolutely hilarious book, 27 Sep 2008
A fabulously funny book. I laughed and LAUGHED and LAUGHed. My wife laughed so much a small bit of wee came out, but since having our second child, that does happen every 7 weeks or so.
For me, the enjoyment did not come from the letters being a `wind-up' - the author does not relish in making people seem foolish and does not ever really ridicule them. If they did subsequently read their own responses in the book, I think they'd see the funny side. The humour lies in the totally natural and unforced way the author writes about the bizarre, and his intelligent simple constructs in the correspondence. It avoids the lazy, artificially bizarre (hurling raw fish at a radiator) kind of comedy in favour of something more educated and rounded. The comedy reminded me of some of the more intelligent and less crude articles found in Viz, but a bit more grown-up.
The small details had me in hysterics. "Poor water boy" may not seem too hilarious, but in the context of the letter to the Belgian Ambassador, that single phrase had me howling for several (9) minutes and laughing the next morning (Thursday); at least I think it was Thursday because I remember seeing an offal lorry on that day.
Top notch, 25 Sep 2008
Cooper wasn't the first to embark on this genre but he's up there with the best. Funny, whimsical and wonderfully pointless. Henry Root is my all time favourite wind up merchant followed by The Raymond Delauney Emails, which is absolutely hilarious. Cooper's books are perfect for cheering you up on a day when you are feeling a little down.
Boring and really not funny, 27 Mar 2008
The idea for this book is rather simple: write silly letters to various companies and get them to play along with the game. It sounds interesting at first but I found it rather tedious. I had one or two giggles but there's nothing that really made me laugh out loud and I thought that the book lived up to it's title - it really is a timewaster! If you want cranks then I'd recommend watching Fonejacker, which is a very funny show with guaranteed laughs.
Ok - funny in parts, 23 Mar 2008
I bought this as a result of an Amazon recommendation after purchasing and enjoying a couple of Guy Browning books. Whereas they were laugh out loud hilarious, this is mildly amusing verging at times on the childish, but nonetheless, enjoyable to read during the tedium of a 2 hour commute; anything to lighten the day is a good thing, right?!
Hilarious, 20 Nov 2007
It isn't often that a book makes me laugh out loud, but this is genuinely, side-splittingly funny. I drove my husband mad with it, to the point where he too had to read it in sheer self-defence.
The premise is simple, Robin Cooper, the author, picks random institutions and writes them letters of astonishing absurdity in the hope that they will write back and a correspondence can then ensue. You would think, given the patent lunacy of many of his letters, that he would be roundly ignored, but luckily for us, he does get replies, and these with the original letters are what makes up this book.
My particular favourites are the letters in which diagrams of the most terrible, wobbly penned quality are sent out with the letters in illustration of some madly random point, and then these are actually taken seriously by the correspondent. Genius, pure genius.
I am now on my third copy, having lent and mysteriously never been given back my previous two. Be warned this is a book you think you will dip into and then accidentally end up reading in one sitting, howling with laughter.
Not that funny, 11 Sep 2008
Easy read,funny in places but becomes a bit bland.
To say this book is hilarous is a bit over the top if you are looking for a quick and simple read it hits the spot.
A GOOD PICK UP PUT DOWN BOOK, 05 Dec 2007
This is a good little book if you're looking for something humorous that you don't have to get too involved in. It's one of those books that you can just pick up and read a bit of, then come back to later. Especially good for fans of flying. It consists of fictional letters to airlines, although it's easy to believe the letters are real. A harmless bit of fun - and don't we all need more of that?!
Wonderful, wonderful book., 27 Nov 2007
What a wonderful, wonderful book. Years ago I read the Henry Root letters and Air Mail is the equal of that book, if not better. Quite the funniest book I have ever read in years. My favourite letters are the Dear Qantas ones, but they're all funny.
Extremely funny, 09 Nov 2007
Very funny, the fact that it is all short 'stories' as such in the form of letters of complaint to airlines, makes it very easy to pick up and put down without losing the thread of the book. However saying that, I found it so difficult to put down that I finished the book in one day, more please! For me the funniest tales were the Air China and the Korean Air letters. Also the fact that the airlines takes these letters so seriously, makes for even better reading! I would not recommend reading this book in public as it makes you laugh out loud and you may alarm other members of the public who will think you slightly deranged!
Another reviewer took offence at this book, stating it was racist in places. My feelings are that yes some are, but they are meant to be and the basis of the joke is on the writer, showing up the letter writer in a humerous manner, I certainly was not offended by any of the material. I feel that anyone who thinks that they will enjoy this book will also probably enjoy David Charters books: At Bonus Time No One Can Hear You Scream and Trust Me I'm A Banker, absolutely hilarious!
Air Mail - Letters from the worl'd most troublesom passenger, 20 Aug 2007
This is possibly one of the best books I have ever read. It's not often that I find the type of magic thats contained in this book.
I wonder if my neighbours thought something mad was going on, due to cackling coming through the walls. I was infact crying! ha ha
Seriously this is a great book and has bought lots of smiles to myself and my friends. It's particularlly good if you work in aviation as it can be related to.
Brilliant 10 out of 10! - go on buy it, you know you want to!
Yes, but, no but, 06 May 2008
Sorry to voice a note of slight discontent..but.... although this is a very vibrant, well acted, fast firing parody of Dickensian childhood tales (mostly Great Expectations and David Copperfield)... I felt it lacked a little in staying power. Yes, when I first heard it, driving to B+Q, I actually stayed listening to it in the carpark until it had finished (mostly with jaw dramatically dropped). Then I promptly missed most of the following weeks so I was really looking forward to catching up.
There isn't much actual story. I mislabled it on itunes in my haste to listen to it while gardening. The first time through I didn't actually notice that it was out of order until 5 episodes in! The plot was that loose.
Yes, the totally self absorbed Miss Flora Dies-Early and the ravaging underwater squirrels are very delightful creations. However compared to the other great Radio 4 historical pastiches such as The Wordsmiths of Gorsemere and the Christopher Marlowe Mysteries, there seemed to be little background research to the enterprise. Once you get past the jokes, there is very little to keep you amused the second time through.
Inspired and Hilarious Lunacy, 11 Mar 2008
FINALLY - a comedy series with intelligence, wit, and an inspired sense of the surreal. I listened to every episode and every repeat. Superbly acted, utterly brilliant. Writer Mark Evans is one to watch.
Pip Pip Horray, 10 Mar 2008
Aboslutely superb show that I listened to both times it has been on the radio and I went to see recorded!
Beware of the underwater squirrels, the fatal cold, jealous father in laws, wooden sea dog/pirates....oh yes and the Heartthrasher brothers and sister.
I wouldnt have gone to see it if I wasnt such a huge Celia fan, but I am EVER so glad I have followed it through! It is brilliant!
*clicks buy*
Genius, 07 Mar 2008
This is the funniest thing I have ever heard on radio. It is in the mould of classic British humour with lunacy, learning and just plain silliness. It's brilliant and I would put money on it following the path that Hitchhiker's Guide travelled from radio. Can't recommend it more highly and would make a great present.
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Customer Reviews
Rind - What Prince Charles Buys in the Pub, 20 Jun 2008
For fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue, this second volume of the Uxbridge English Dictionary will come as no surprise - an excellent book of word play and hilarity. And now that poor Humph has left us, this may become a unique item....depends what they do with the show. Excellent book, very funny, and guaranteed to make you laugh - a great tribute to the show...the best radio comedy show around. Highly recommended.....oh and one more definition....Propaganda....A good look :)
The funniest book I have EVER read!, 18 May 2008
Fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue will need no introduction to this collection - for everyone else all that I can give you is one "defination" - "Reincarnation - to be born again as a tin of condensed milk" - I am a cynical, hard bitten old sod but I cried tears of laughter when I read this book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Absolutely hilarious book, 27 Sep 2008
A fabulously funny book. I laughed and LAUGHED and LAUGHed. My wife laughed so much a small bit of wee came out, but since having our second child, that does happen every 7 weeks or so.
For me, the enjoyment did not come from the letters being a `wind-up' - the author does not relish in making people seem foolish and does not ever really ridicule them. If they did subsequently read their own responses in the book, I think they'd see the funny side. The humour lies in the totally natural and unforced way the author writes about the bizarre, and his intelligent simple constructs in the correspondence. It avoids the lazy, artificially bizarre (hurling raw fish at a radiator) kind of comedy in favour of something more educated and rounded. The comedy reminded me of some of the more intelligent and less crude articles found in Viz, but a bit more grown-up.
The small details had me in hysterics. "Poor water boy" may not seem too hilarious, but in the context of the letter to the Belgian Ambassador, that single phrase had me howling for several (9) minutes and laughing the next morning (Thursday); at least I think it was Thursday because I remember seeing an offal lorry on that day.
Top notch, 25 Sep 2008
Cooper wasn't the first to embark on this genre but he's up there with the best. Funny, whimsical and wonderfully pointless. Henry Root is my all time favourite wind up merchant followed by The Raymond Delauney Emails, which is absolutely hilarious. Cooper's books are perfect for cheering you up on a day when you are feeling a little down.
Boring and really not funny, 27 Mar 2008
The idea for this book is rather simple: write silly letters to various companies and get them to play along with the game. It sounds interesting at first but I found it rather tedious. I had one or two giggles but there's nothing that really made me laugh out loud and I thought that the book lived up to it's title - it really is a timewaster! If you want cranks then I'd recommend watching Fonejacker, which is a very funny show with guaranteed laughs.
Ok - funny in parts, 23 Mar 2008
I bought this as a result of an Amazon recommendation after purchasing and enjoying a couple of Guy Browning books. Whereas they were laugh out loud hilarious, this is mildly amusing verging at times on the childish, but nonetheless, enjoyable to read during the tedium of a 2 hour commute; anything to lighten the day is a good thing, right?!
Hilarious, 20 Nov 2007
It isn't often that a book makes me laugh out loud, but this is genuinely, side-splittingly funny. I drove my husband mad with it, to the point where he too had to read it in sheer self-defence.
The premise is simple, Robin Cooper, the author, picks random institutions and writes them letters of astonishing absurdity in the hope that they will write back and a correspondence can then ensue. You would think, given the patent lunacy of many of his letters, that he would be roundly ignored, but luckily for us, he does get replies, and these with the original letters are what makes up this book.
My particular favourites are the letters in which diagrams of the most terrible, wobbly penned quality are sent out with the letters in illustration of some madly random point, and then these are actually taken seriously by the correspondent. Genius, pure genius.
I am now on my third copy, having lent and mysteriously never been given back my previous two. Be warned this is a book you think you will dip into and then accidentally end up reading in one sitting, howling with laughter.
Not that funny, 11 Sep 2008
Easy read,funny in places but becomes a bit bland.
To say this book is hilarous is a bit over the top if you are looking for a quick and simple read it hits the spot.
A GOOD PICK UP PUT DOWN BOOK, 05 Dec 2007
This is a good little book if you're looking for something humorous that you don't have to get too involved in. It's one of those books that you can just pick up and read a bit of, then come back to later. Especially good for fans of flying. It consists of fictional letters to airlines, although it's easy to believe the letters are real. A harmless bit of fun - and don't we all need more of that?!
Wonderful, wonderful book., 27 Nov 2007
What a wonderful, wonderful book. Years ago I read the Henry Root letters and Air Mail is the equal of that book, if not better. Quite the funniest book I have ever read in years. My favourite letters are the Dear Qantas ones, but they're all funny.
Extremely funny, 09 Nov 2007
Very funny, the fact that it is all short 'stories' as such in the form of letters of complaint to airlines, makes it very easy to pick up and put down without losing the thread of the book. However saying that, I found it so difficult to put down that I finished the book in one day, more please! For me the funniest tales were the Air China and the Korean Air letters. Also the fact that the airlines takes these letters so seriously, makes for even better reading! I would not recommend reading this book in public as it makes you laugh out loud and you may alarm other members of the public who will think you slightly deranged!
Another reviewer took offence at this book, stating it was racist in places. My feelings are that yes some are, but they are meant to be and the basis of the joke is on the writer, showing up the letter writer in a humerous manner, I certainly was not offended by any of the material. I feel that anyone who thinks that they will enjoy this book will also probably enjoy David Charters books: At Bonus Time No One Can Hear You Scream and Trust Me I'm A Banker, absolutely hilarious!
Air Mail - Letters from the worl'd most troublesom passenger, 20 Aug 2007
This is possibly one of the best books I have ever read. It's not often that I find the type of magic thats contained in this book.
I wonder if my neighbours thought something mad was going on, due to cackling coming through the walls. I was infact crying! ha ha
Seriously this is a great book and has bought lots of smiles to myself and my friends. It's particularlly good if you work in aviation as it can be related to.
Brilliant 10 out of 10! - go on buy it, you know you want to!
Yes, but, no but, 06 May 2008
Sorry to voice a note of slight discontent..but.... although this is a very vibrant, well acted, fast firing parody of Dickensian childhood tales (mostly Great Expectations and David Copperfield)... I felt it lacked a little in staying power. Yes, when I first heard it, driving to B+Q, I actually stayed listening to it in the carpark until it had finished (mostly with jaw dramatically dropped). Then I promptly missed most of the following weeks so I was really looking forward to catching up.
There isn't much actual story. I mislabled it on itunes in my haste to listen to it while gardening. The first time through I didn't actually notice that it was out of order until 5 episodes in! The plot was that loose.
Yes, the totally self absorbed Miss Flora Dies-Early and the ravaging underwater squirrels are very delightful creations. However compared to the other great Radio 4 historical pastiches such as The Wordsmiths of Gorsemere and the Christopher Marlowe Mysteries, there seemed to be little background research to the enterprise. Once you get past the jokes, there is very little to keep you amused the second time through.
Inspired and Hilarious Lunacy, 11 Mar 2008
FINALLY - a comedy series with intelligence, wit, and an inspired sense of the surreal. I listened to every episode and every repeat. Superbly acted, utterly brilliant. Writer Mark Evans is one to watch.
Pip Pip Horray, 10 Mar 2008
Aboslutely superb show that I listened to both times it has been on the radio and I went to see recorded!
Beware of the underwater squirrels, the fatal cold, jealous father in laws, wooden sea dog/pirates....oh yes and the Heartthrasher brothers and sister.
I wouldnt have gone to see it if I wasnt such a huge Celia fan, but I am EVER so glad I have followed it through! It is brilliant!
*clicks buy*
Genius, 07 Mar 2008
This is the funniest thing I have ever heard on radio. It is in the mould of classic British humour with lunacy, learning and just plain silliness. It's brilliant and I would put money on it following the path that Hitchhiker's Guide travelled from radio. Can't recommend it more highly and would make a great present.
I must have missed something...but this didnt miss the bin., 11 Aug 2008
I knew within a few pages this was not for me. I am quite a juvenile 36 year old but this was far too juvenile for me, (taking in mind I have a wife and 2 kids - so not 'that' juvenile). It was just not funny and was just stupid. Think of a question, let some chimps type, some completely random answers and publish it. I dont usually throw books away - but within two weeks this was nestled gently at the bottom of the recycling bin, probably the best decision I made, and being safely aware that this copy could no longer inflict itself on anyone else. Dont get me wrong I have a good sense of humour - but this stuff is just unfunny crap.
Some people may find it funny, but hey 'Last of the Summer Wine' lasted for years so there is no accounting for taste - this book made me smile less (and I despise Last Of The Summer Wine).
I would like to think that (if it is ever re-printed), the last question being "How do you feel now sucker, after parting with your hard earned cash for this dirge?". The title of the book is quite funny, hence 1 star.
PS I have an idea, I should give this book 5 stars, that is far more hilarious than anything between its pages.
Do Arseholes write about Ants and 101 OBRQs?, 30 Apr 2008
I read the negative reviews here about this book and thought what a load of stuffshirts. With my well honed schoolboy sense of humour I couldn't wait to take this to the inner sanctum to read.
I have to agree with the 'stuffshirts' I am afraid. I cannot even say it is 'puerile', it's just rubbish. I think there was something that made me laugh somewhere but not sure.
A shame, a great title and a great idea for a parody on the absolutely excellent New Scientist books but I think they had more humour in them than this does. It reminded me of 'Shite's unoriginal miscellany' the author's name was a perfect description of the contents.
Very funny!, 28 Mar 2008
It's quite scary to see that some people have taken this book seriously. Maybe it is a symptom of the world today but it's good to know that the rest of us have a sense of humour!
What?, 06 Mar 2008
This is the old adage "Ask a stupid question, get a stupid answer" in book form.
Whilst some of the entries are very funny, and a lot of the questions invite bizarre answers, the reader is left at the end wondering... why?
Why do people feel compelled to write in with random yarns that could be misconstrued as fact? Why do I still have to check myself thinking that some of it mught be true? Why did they have to publish a book-full?
Truth be told, this is a book you leaf through at bed time, have a little chuckle, then put down, but the irony is not lost. This is a book full of people asking questions no one asks, being answered by people who have far too much spare time, and you sit there thinking "why I am bothering to read it?"
It's not an awful book, it fills a gap. But, like the articles themselves, it is a bit pointless.
I felt compelled to review this as it was so bad, 03 Mar 2008
I bought this book thinking it might contain lots of interesting and random facts about things and life in general. It is a very small book containing fictional letters from people which are meant to be humourous but if you have half a brain it is really very tedious and uninteresting.
There are smatterings of factual information but you would have to be aware of this information in the first place in order to sieve it out of the sea of complete and utter nonsense it is contained within.
In short, do not buy this if you are hoping for an interesting read. Perhaps younger readers would enjoy it but they would certainly not learn anything.
I did find this book useful as a sleeping aid as it is so competely boring and pointless.
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Customer Reviews
Rind - What Prince Charles Buys in the Pub, 20 Jun 2008
For fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue, this second volume of the Uxbridge English Dictionary will come as no surprise - an excellent book of word play and hilarity. And now that poor Humph has left us, this may become a unique item....depends what they do with the show. Excellent book, very funny, and guaranteed to make you laugh - a great tribute to the show...the best radio comedy show around. Highly recommended.....oh and one more definition....Propaganda....A good look :)
The funniest book I have EVER read!, 18 May 2008
Fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue will need no introduction to this collection - for everyone else all that I can give you is one "defination" - "Reincarnation - to be born again as a tin of condensed milk" - I am a cynical, hard bitten old sod but I cried tears of laughter when I read this book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Absolutely hilarious book, 27 Sep 2008
A fabulously funny book. I laughed and LAUGHED and LAUGHed. My wife laughed so much a small bit of wee came out, but since having our second child, that does happen every 7 weeks or so.
For me, the enjoyment did not come from the letters being a `wind-up' - the author does not relish in making people seem foolish and does not ever really ridicule them. If they did subsequently read their own responses in the book, I think they'd see the funny side. The humour lies in the totally natural and unforced way the author writes about the bizarre, and his intelligent simple constructs in the correspondence. It avoids the lazy, artificially bizarre (hurling raw fish at a radiator) kind of comedy in favour of something more educated and rounded. The comedy reminded me of some of the more intelligent and less crude articles found in Viz, but a bit more grown-up.
The small details had me in hysterics. "Poor water boy" may not seem too hilarious, but in the context of the letter to the Belgian Ambassador, that single phrase had me howling for several (9) minutes and laughing the next morning (Thursday); at least I think it was Thursday because I remember seeing an offal lorry on that day.
Top notch, 25 Sep 2008
Cooper wasn't the first to embark on this genre but he's up there with the best. Funny, whimsical and wonderfully pointless. Henry Root is my all time favourite wind up merchant followed by The Raymond Delauney Emails, which is absolutely hilarious. Cooper's books are perfect for cheering you up on a day when you are feeling a little down.
Boring and really not funny, 27 Mar 2008
The idea for this book is rather simple: write silly letters to various companies and get them to play along with the game. It sounds interesting at first but I found it rather tedious. I had one or two giggles but there's nothing that really made me laugh out loud and I thought that the book lived up to it's title - it really is a timewaster! If you want cranks then I'd recommend watching Fonejacker, which is a very funny show with guaranteed laughs.
Ok - funny in parts, 23 Mar 2008
I bought this as a result of an Amazon recommendation after purchasing and enjoying a couple of Guy Browning books. Whereas they were laugh out loud hilarious, this is mildly amusing verging at times on the childish, but nonetheless, enjoyable to read during the tedium of a 2 hour commute; anything to lighten the day is a good thing, right?!
Hilarious, 20 Nov 2007
It isn't often that a book makes me laugh out loud, but this is genuinely, side-splittingly funny. I drove my husband mad with it, to the point where he too had to read it in sheer self-defence.
The premise is simple, Robin Cooper, the author, picks random institutions and writes them letters of astonishing absurdity in the hope that they will write back and a correspondence can then ensue. You would think, given the patent lunacy of many of his letters, that he would be roundly ignored, but luckily for us, he does get replies, and these with the original letters are what makes up this book.
My particular favourites are the letters in which diagrams of the most terrible, wobbly penned quality are sent out with the letters in illustration of some madly random point, and then these are actually taken seriously by the correspondent. Genius, pure genius.
I am now on my third copy, having lent and mysteriously never been given back my previous two. Be warned this is a book you think you will dip into and then accidentally end up reading in one sitting, howling with laughter.
Not that funny, 11 Sep 2008
Easy read,funny in places but becomes a bit bland.
To say this book is hilarous is a bit over the top if you are looking for a quick and simple read it hits the spot.
A GOOD PICK UP PUT DOWN BOOK, 05 Dec 2007
This is a good little book if you're looking for something humorous that you don't have to get too involved in. It's one of those books that you can just pick up and read a bit of, then come back to later. Especially good for fans of flying. It consists of fictional letters to airlines, although it's easy to believe the letters are real. A harmless bit of fun - and don't we all need more of that?!
Wonderful, wonderful book., 27 Nov 2007
What a wonderful, wonderful book. Years ago I read the Henry Root letters and Air Mail is the equal of that book, if not better. Quite the funniest book I have ever read in years. My favourite letters are the Dear Qantas ones, but they're all funny.
Extremely funny, 09 Nov 2007
Very funny, the fact that it is all short 'stories' as such in the form of letters of complaint to airlines, makes it very easy to pick up and put down without losing the thread of the book. However saying that, I found it so difficult to put down that I finished the book in one day, more please! For me the funniest tales were the Air China and the Korean Air letters. Also the fact that the airlines takes these letters so seriously, makes for even better reading! I would not recommend reading this book in public as it makes you laugh out loud and you may alarm other members of the public who will think you slightly deranged!
Another reviewer took offence at this book, stating it was racist in places. My feelings are that yes some are, but they are meant to be and the basis of the joke is on the writer, showing up the letter writer in a humerous manner, I certainly was not offended by any of the material. I feel that anyone who thinks that they will enjoy this book will also probably enjoy David Charters books: At Bonus Time No One Can Hear You Scream and Trust Me I'm A Banker, absolutely hilarious!
Air Mail - Letters from the worl'd most troublesom passenger, 20 Aug 2007
This is possibly one of the best books I have ever read. It's not often that I find the type of magic thats contained in this book.
I wonder if my neighbours thought something mad was going on, due to cackling coming through the walls. I was infact crying! ha ha
Seriously this is a great book and has bought lots of smiles to myself and my friends. It's particularlly good if you work in aviation as it can be related to.
Brilliant 10 out of 10! - go on buy it, you know you want to!
Yes, but, no but, 06 May 2008
Sorry to voice a note of slight discontent..but.... although this is a very vibrant, well acted, fast firing parody of Dickensian childhood tales (mostly Great Expectations and David Copperfield)... I felt it lacked a little in staying power. Yes, when I first heard it, driving to B+Q, I actually stayed listening to it in the carpark until it had finished (mostly with jaw dramatically dropped). Then I promptly missed most of the following weeks so I was really looking forward to catching up.
There isn't much actual story. I mislabled it on itunes in my haste to listen to it while gardening. The first time through I didn't actually notice that it was out of order until 5 episodes in! The plot was that loose.
Yes, the totally self absorbed Miss Flora Dies-Early and the ravaging underwater squirrels are very delightful creations. However compared to the other great Radio 4 historical pastiches such as The Wordsmiths of Gorsemere and the Christopher Marlowe Mysteries, there seemed to be little background research to the enterprise. Once you get past the jokes, there is very little to keep you amused the second time through.
Inspired and Hilarious Lunacy, 11 Mar 2008
FINALLY - a comedy series with intelligence, wit, and an inspired sense of the surreal. I listened to every episode and every repeat. Superbly acted, utterly brilliant. Writer Mark Evans is one to watch.
Pip Pip Horray, 10 Mar 2008
Aboslutely superb show that I listened to both times it has been on the radio and I went to see recorded!
Beware of the underwater squirrels, the fatal cold, jealous father in laws, wooden sea dog/pirates....oh yes and the Heartthrasher brothers and sister.
I wouldnt have gone to see it if I wasnt such a huge Celia fan, but I am EVER so glad I have followed it through! It is brilliant!
*clicks buy*
Genius, 07 Mar 2008
This is the funniest thing I have ever heard on radio. It is in the mould of classic British humour with lunacy, learning and just plain silliness. It's brilliant and I would put money on it following the path that Hitchhiker's Guide travelled from radio. Can't recommend it more highly and would make a great present.
I must have missed something...but this didnt miss the bin., 11 Aug 2008
I knew within a few pages this was not for me. I am quite a juvenile 36 year old but this was far too juvenile for me, (taking in mind I have a wife and 2 kids - so not 'that' juvenile). It was just not funny and was just stupid. Think of a question, let some chimps type, some completely random answers and publish it. I dont usually throw books away - but within two weeks this was nestled gently at the bottom of the recycling bin, probably the best decision I made, and being safely aware that this copy could no longer inflict itself on anyone else. Dont get me wrong I have a good sense of humour - but this stuff is just unfunny crap.
Some people may find it funny, but hey 'Last of the Summer Wine' lasted for years so there is no accounting for taste - this book made me smile less (and I despise Last Of The Summer Wine).
I would like to think that (if it is ever re-printed), the last question being "How do you feel now sucker, after parting with your hard earned cash for this dirge?". The title of the book is quite funny, hence 1 star.
PS I have an idea, I should give this book 5 stars, that is far more hilarious than anything between its pages.
Do Arseholes write about Ants and 101 OBRQs?, 30 Apr 2008
I read the negative reviews here about this book and thought what a load of stuffshirts. With my well honed schoolboy sense of humour I couldn't wait to take this to the inner sanctum to read.
I have to agree with the 'stuffshirts' I am afraid. I cannot even say it is 'puerile', it's just rubbish. I think there was something that made me laugh somewhere but not sure.
A shame, a great title and a great idea for a parody on the absolutely excellent New Scientist books but I think they had more humour in them than this does. It reminded me of 'Shite's unoriginal miscellany' the author's name was a perfect description of the contents.
Very funny!, 28 Mar 2008
It's quite scary to see that some people have taken this book seriously. Maybe it is a symptom of the world today but it's good to know that the rest of us have a sense of humour!
What?, 06 Mar 2008
This is the old adage "Ask a stupid question, get a stupid answer" in book form.
Whilst some of the entries are very funny, and a lot of the questions invite bizarre answers, the reader is left at the end wondering... why?
Why do people feel compelled to write in with random yarns that could be misconstrued as fact? Why do I still have to check myself thinking that some of it mught be true? Why did they have to publish a book-full?
Truth be told, this is a book you leaf through at bed time, have a little chuckle, then put down, but the irony is not lost. This is a book full of people asking questions no one asks, being answered by people who have far too much spare time, and you sit there thinking "why I am bothering to read it?"
It's not an awful book, it fills a gap. But, like the articles themselves, it is a bit pointless.
I felt compelled to review this as it was so bad, 03 Mar 2008
I bought this book thinking it might contain lots of interesting and random facts about things and life in general. It is a very small book containing fictional letters from people which are meant to be humourous but if you have half a brain it is really very tedious and uninteresting.
There are smatterings of factual information but you would have to be aware of this information in the first place in order to sieve it out of the sea of complete and utter nonsense it is contained within.
In short, do not buy this if you are hoping for an interesting read. Perhaps younger readers would enjoy it but they would certainly not learn anything.
I did find this book useful as a sleeping aid as it is so competely boring and pointless.
Wheres Bin Laden, 08 Jan 2008
A very good wheres wally take on Bin Laden. Follow Bin laden on his journey of terror around the world. A rather easy book and should not take more than a few mins to complete each page but still very commical. I loved bill gates punching a man in a apple costume, there is alot to look for in each page which does add more fun and lifetime to the book. probably the funniest page is the alqaeda pajama party which seems to add a more innocence and playfulness to this terror group =/ All in all, an entertaining book to give to friends. I gave it as a secret santa
Couldn't wait 4 weeks for it to arrive, 13 Jan 2007
Right so it appears to take the stance that the US & co can't find Bin Laden due to a lack of intelligence. So its now up to you to find him and a variety of cartoon cia agents, well known faces and strange goings on.
Basically its good for the effect, the cover along would make anyone chuckle and the puzzles inside have the chance to find Bin Laden as well as the likes of Jamie Oliver cooking Nigella Lawson. I was intrigued as to whether this could upset anyone and other than Mr Bin Laden not getting any money for using his name, the US for being mocked for not finding him or the people of amsterdam being primarily a bit pervy then we should not see anyone protesting. I will check up on here to see if anyone reviews it differently.
As for finding the things you are supposed to its a five minute book to take in the idea of the game, it could be a lot longer to find everything and everyone suggested. I found Bin Laden very quickly once I'd got passed the disguises and can now travel the world in the hope of a substantial reward from the CIA???
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Customer Reviews
Rind - What Prince Charles Buys in the Pub, 20 Jun 2008
For fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue, this second volume of the Uxbridge English Dictionary will come as no surprise - an excellent book of word play and hilarity. And now that poor Humph has left us, this may become a unique item....depends what they do with the show. Excellent book, very funny, and guaranteed to make you laugh - a great tribute to the show...the best radio comedy show around. Highly recommended.....oh and one more definition....Propaganda....A good look :)
The funniest book I have EVER read!, 18 May 2008
Fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue will need no introduction to this collection - for everyone else all that I can give you is one "defination" - "Reincarnation - to be born again as a tin of condensed milk" - I am a cynical, hard bitten old sod but I cried tears of laughter when I read this book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Absolutely hilarious book, 27 Sep 2008
A fabulously funny book. I laughed and LAUGHED and LAUGHed. My wife laughed so much a small bit of wee came out, but since having our second child, that does happen every 7 weeks or so.
For me, the enjoyment did not come from the letters being a `wind-up' - the author does not relish in making people seem foolish and does not ever really ridicule them. If they did subsequently read their own responses in the book, I think they'd see the funny side. The humour lies in the totally natural and unforced way the author writes about the bizarre, and his intelligent simple constructs in the correspondence. It avoids the lazy, artificially bizarre (hurling raw fish at a radiator) kind of comedy in favour of something more educated and rounded. The comedy reminded me of some of the more intelligent and less crude articles found in Viz, but a bit more grown-up.
The small details had me in hysterics. "Poor water boy" may not seem too hilarious, but in the context of the letter to the Belgian Ambassador, that single phrase had me howling for several (9) minutes and laughing the next morning (Thursday); at least I think it was Thursday because I remember seeing an offal lorry on that day.
Top notch, 25 Sep 2008
Cooper wasn't the first to embark on this genre but he's up there with the best. Funny, whimsical and wonderfully pointless. Henry Root is my all time favourite wind up merchant followed by The Raymond Delauney Emails, which is absolutely hilarious. Cooper's books are perfect for cheering you up on a day when you are feeling a little down.
Boring and really not funny, 27 Mar 2008
The idea for this book is rather simple: write silly letters to various companies and get them to play along with the game. It sounds interesting at first but I found it rather tedious. I had one or two giggles but there's nothing that really made me laugh out loud and I thought that the book lived up to it's title - it really is a timewaster! If you want cranks then I'd recommend watching Fonejacker, which is a very funny show with guaranteed laughs.
Ok - funny in parts, 23 Mar 2008
I bought this as a result of an Amazon recommendation after purchasing and enjoying a couple of Guy Browning books. Whereas they were laugh out loud hilarious, this is mildly amusing verging at times on the childish, but nonetheless, enjoyable to read during the tedium of a 2 hour commute; anything to lighten the day is a good thing, right?!
Hilarious, 20 Nov 2007
It isn't often that a book makes me laugh out loud, but this is genuinely, side-splittingly funny. I drove my husband mad with it, to the point where he too had to read it in sheer self-defence.
The premise is simple, Robin Cooper, the author, picks random institutions and writes them letters of astonishing absurdity in the hope that they will write back and a correspondence can then ensue. You would think, given the patent lunacy of many of his letters, that he would be roundly ignored, but luckily for us, he does get replies, and these with the original letters are what makes up this book.
My particular favourites are the letters in which diagrams of the most terrible, wobbly penned quality are sent out with the letters in illustration of some madly random point, and then these are actually taken seriously by the correspondent. Genius, pure genius.
I am now on my third copy, having lent and mysteriously never been given back my previous two. Be warned this is a book you think you will dip into and then accidentally end up reading in one sitting, howling with laughter.
Not that funny, 11 Sep 2008
Easy read,funny in places but becomes a bit bland.
To say this book is hilarous is a bit over the top if you are looking for a quick and simple read it hits the spot.
A GOOD PICK UP PUT DOWN BOOK, 05 Dec 2007
This is a good little book if you're looking for something humorous that you don't have to get too involved in. It's one of those books that you can just pick up and read a bit of, then come back to later. Especially good for fans of flying. It consists of fictional letters to airlines, although it's easy to believe the letters are real. A harmless bit of fun - and don't we all need more of that?!
Wonderful, wonderful book., 27 Nov 2007
What a wonderful, wonderful book. Years ago I read the Henry Root letters and Air Mail is the equal of that book, if not better. Quite the funniest book I have ever read in years. My favourite letters are the Dear Qantas ones, but they're all funny.
Extremely funny, 09 Nov 2007
Very funny, the fact that it is all short 'stories' as such in the form of letters of complaint to airlines, makes it very easy to pick up and put down without losing the thread of the book. However saying that, I found it so difficult to put down that I finished the book in one day, more please! For me the funniest tales were the Air China and the Korean Air letters. Also the fact that the airlines takes these letters so seriously, makes for even better reading! I would not recommend reading this book in public as it makes you laugh out loud and you may alarm other members of the public who will think you slightly deranged!
Another reviewer took offence at this book, stating it was racist in places. My feelings are that yes some are, but they are meant to be and the basis of the joke is on the writer, showing up the letter writer in a humerous manner, I certainly was not offended by any of the material. I feel that anyone who thinks that they will enjoy this book will also probably enjoy David Charters books: At Bonus Time No One Can Hear You Scream and Trust Me I'm A Banker, absolutely hilarious!
Air Mail - Letters from the worl'd most troublesom passenger, 20 Aug 2007
This is possibly one of the best books I have ever read. It's not often that I find the type of magic thats contained in this book.
I wonder if my neighbours thought something mad was going on, due to cackling coming through the walls. I was infact crying! ha ha
Seriously this is a great book and has bought lots of smiles to myself and my friends. It's particularlly good if you work in aviation as it can be related to.
Brilliant 10 out of 10! - go on buy it, you know you want to!
Yes, but, no but, 06 May 2008
Sorry to voice a note of slight discontent..but.... although this is a very vibrant, well acted, fast firing parody of Dickensian childhood tales (mostly Great Expectations and David Copperfield)... I felt it lacked a little in staying power. Yes, when I first heard it, driving to B+Q, I actually stayed listening to it in the carpark until it had finished (mostly with jaw dramatically dropped). Then I promptly missed most of the following weeks so I was really looking forward to catching up.
There isn't much actual story. I mislabled it on itunes in my haste to listen to it while gardening. The first time through I didn't actually notice that it was out of order until 5 episodes in! The plot was that loose.
Yes, the totally self absorbed Miss Flora Dies-Early and the ravaging underwater squirrels are very delightful creations. However compared to the other great Radio 4 historical pastiches such as The Wordsmiths of Gorsemere and the Christopher Marlowe Mysteries, there seemed to be little background research to the enterprise. Once you get past the jokes, there is very little to keep you amused the second time through.
Inspired and Hilarious Lunacy, 11 Mar 2008
FINALLY - a comedy series with intelligence, wit, and an inspired sense of the surreal. I listened to every episode and every repeat. Superbly acted, utterly brilliant. Writer Mark Evans is one to watch.
Pip Pip Horray, 10 Mar 2008
Aboslutely superb show that I listened to both times it has been on the radio and I went to see recorded!
Beware of the underwater squirrels, the fatal cold, jealous father in laws, wooden sea dog/pirates....oh yes and the Heartthrasher brothers and sister.
I wouldnt have gone to see it if I wasnt such a huge Celia fan, but I am EVER so glad I have followed it through! It is brilliant!
*clicks buy*
Genius, 07 Mar 2008
This is the funniest thing I have ever heard on radio. It is in the mould of classic British humour with lunacy, learning and just plain silliness. It's brilliant and I would put money on it following the path that Hitchhiker's Guide travelled from radio. Can't recommend it more highly and would make a great present.
I must have missed something...but this didnt miss the bin., 11 Aug 2008
I knew within a few pages this was not for me. I am quite a juvenile 36 year old but this was far too juvenile for me, (taking in mind I have a wife and 2 kids - so not 'that' juvenile). It was just not funny and was just stupid. Think of a question, let some chimps type, some completely random answers and publish it. I dont usually throw books away - but within two weeks this was nestled gently at the bottom of the recycling bin, probably the best decision I made, and being safely aware that this copy could no longer inflict itself on anyone else. Dont get me wrong I have a good sense of humour - but this stuff is just unfunny crap.
Some people may find it funny, but hey 'Last of the Summer Wine' lasted for years so there is no accounting for taste - this book made me smile less (and I despise Last Of The Summer Wine).
I would like to think that (if it is ever re-printed), the last question being "How do you feel now sucker, after parting with your hard earned cash for this dirge?". The title of the book is quite funny, hence 1 star.
PS I have an idea, I should give this book 5 stars, that is far more hilarious than anything between its pages.
Do Arseholes write about Ants and 101 OBRQs?, 30 Apr 2008
I read the negative reviews here about this book and thought what a load of stuffshirts. With my well honed schoolboy sense of humour I couldn't wait to take this to the inner sanctum to read.
I have to agree with the 'stuffshirts' I am afraid. I cannot even say it is 'puerile', it's just rubbish. I think there was something that made me laugh somewhere but not sure.
A shame, a great title and a great idea for a parody on the absolutely excellent New Scientist books but I think they had more humour in them than this does. It reminded me of 'Shite's unoriginal miscellany' the author's name was a perfect description of the contents.
Very funny!, 28 Mar 2008
It's quite scary to see that some people have taken this book seriously. Maybe it is a symptom of the world today but it's good to know that the rest of us have a sense of humour!
What?, 06 Mar 2008
This is the old adage "Ask a stupid question, get a stupid answer" in book form.
Whilst some of the entries are very funny, and a lot of the questions invite bizarre answers, the reader is left at the end wondering... why?
Why do people feel compelled to write in with random yarns that could be misconstrued as fact? Why do I still have to check myself thinking that some of it mught be true? Why did they have to publish a book-full?
Truth be told, this is a book you leaf through at bed time, have a little chuckle, then put down, but the irony is not lost. This is a book full of people asking questions no one asks, being answered by people who have far too much spare time, and you sit there thinking "why I am bothering to read it?"
It's not an awful book, it fills a gap. But, like the articles themselves, it is a bit pointless.
I felt compelled to review this as it was so bad, 03 Mar 2008
I bought this book thinking it might contain lots of interesting and random facts about things and life in general. It is a very small book containing fictional letters from people which are meant to be humourous but if you have half a brain it is really very tedious and uninteresting.
There are smatterings of factual information but you would have to be aware of this information in the first place in order to sieve it out of the sea of complete and utter nonsense it is contained within.
In short, do not buy this if you are hoping for an interesting read. Perhaps younger readers would enjoy it but they would certainly not learn anything.
I did find this book useful as a sleeping aid as it is so competely boring and pointless.
Wheres Bin Laden, 08 Jan 2008
A very good wheres wally take on Bin Laden. Follow Bin laden on his journey of terror around the world. A rather easy book and should not take more than a few mins to complete each page but still very commical. I loved bill gates punching a man in a apple costume, there is alot to look for in each page which does add more fun and lifetime to the book. probably the funniest page is the alqaeda pajama party which seems to add a more innocence and playfulness to this terror group =/ All in all, an entertaining book to give to friends. I gave it as a secret santa
Couldn't wait 4 weeks for it to arrive, 13 Jan 2007
Right so it appears to take the stance that the US & co can't find Bin Laden due to a lack of intelligence. So its now up to you to find him and a variety of cartoon cia agents, well known faces and strange goings on.
Basically its good for the effect, the cover along would make anyone chuckle and the puzzles inside have the chance to find Bin Laden as well as the likes of Jamie Oliver cooking Nigella Lawson. I was intrigued as to whether this could upset anyone and other than Mr Bin Laden not getting any money for using his name, the US for being mocked for not finding him or the people of amsterdam being primarily a bit pervy then we should not see anyone protesting. I will check up on here to see if anyone reviews it differently.
As for finding the things you are supposed to its a five minute book to take in the idea of the game, it could be a lot longer to find everything and everyone suggested. I found Bin Laden very quickly once I'd got passed the disguises and can now travel the world in the hope of a substantial reward from the CIA???
Excllent compact guide., 11 Feb 2008
This book was recommended to me by a BBC producer when I started trying to write comedy. Yes it's simplistic, but it works. JV gives you a brilliant method for developing characters and plots. I still dip into it now and again when I'm struggling with something. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone. It's a nice slim volume rather than a big fat tome, too. Which is nice.
Great ideas on structure for *all* writers., 09 Jan 2008
This and Vorhaus's other book on writing, "Creativity Rules" have been invaluable in helping me write more shapely fiction and I immediately recommend them to anyone who tells me they want to write, too.
His ideas on story structure are presented in a fun and funny way, but whenever I approach other books on writing I feel like Vorhaus got there first with this light little book, before all the guys with their deeply important mythic cycle breezeblock-workbooks hung around their necks -- and he got there with a smile on his face.
His principles on comedy in this book have given me what feels like X-ray vision when it comes to watching popular culture of any kind. This is someone who's been paying close attention to how story, humour, and thinking work, and he's given us all his crib notes.
A big help but use it wisely, 01 Aug 2007
Doreen has never been a confident public speaker but last summer she was faced with the daunting challenge of delivering a speech in a local debate. 'This house believes that prostitution should be legalised' was never going to be an easy motion to put to a Christian faith-group. Apparently she surmised that the only chance to get the audience on her side would be through the use of humour. Not a bad idea, I'll warrant, but Doreen (physical characteristics aside) has never been a particularly funny woman. I bought this excellent guidebook in order to help but I fear that she failed to exploit its full potential. If she had even glanced over the explanations of word-play, misdirection and irony then it certainly didn't come across. Rather, I believe that she followed in the footsteps of Roy 'Chubby' Brown and confined her research to one particular facet of comedy.
Well, I don't think even Doreen had intended to turn the air quite so blue, but the warm-up gin and tonics went far beyond having a 'calming' influence. I fear that she was egged-on even further by vocal support from the elderly Mrs. Dewhurst. The isolated cries of approval were probably not the best way to gauge the sentiment of the room, if one considers that Mrs Dewhurst tends to punctuate even the most leisurely of Sunday sermons with bouts of raucous cheering. Needless to say, the speech was not met with the universal acclaim that Doreen had anticipated. Still, technically the debate can't be chalked up as a loss. The melee that broke out (after a particularly crass 'joke' that would have made Ron Jeremy blush) ended any chances of a civil vote being held.
Excellent start to wannabe writers, 25 Jan 2006
I have read and re-read this book in its entirety, and in my view is invaluable if you want to become a more confident writer/performer or just want to have a deeper understanding of what humour actually is. The author offers many exercises for the reader to complete. This built up my confidence and made me realise that you can make a whole bunch of boring and mundane parts of life into supremely comedy sequences.
First the basics of what makes us laugh are explained. The book then moves into defining how to make your comic characters and to forget about why you think a certain aspect is unfunny.
After this the book is split up into seperate sections depending on which field of comedy you wish to pursue, be it sitcom, sketch, stand-up, and, ahem, practical jokes (it is hard to show sarcasm through text).
The end of the book applies to every comedian, helping you to perfect your work, and ultimately selling your material.
Unfortunately the book is not prfect throughout. Most explainations of certain comic situations involve the use of a 1980's film or tv series, so if you are under the age of, say 25 like me (or, if you didn't watch American shows of the 80's) I would strongly suggest buying Mel Helitzer's Comedy Writing Secrets, 2005. Apart from this I strongly recommend this book, trust me you can't go wrong.
WOW!, 21 May 2003
This is a thoroughly recommended book. I used to struggle at parties for things to talk about, which used to make me feel awkward, this book has opened my eyes and now I can make humorous conversation.........a definite winner with the ladies.
As for the sitcom material, I've been giving it a go.
I feel funnier than I ever have....get this book
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1066 and All That
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W.C. SellarR.J. Yeatman;
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Customer Reviews
Rind - What Prince Charles Buys in the Pub, 20 Jun 2008
For fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue, this second volume of the Uxbridge English Dictionary will come as no surprise - an excellent book of word play and hilarity. And now that poor Humph has left us, this may become a unique item....depends what they do with the show. Excellent book, very funny, and guaranteed to make you laugh - a great tribute to the show...the best radio comedy show around. Highly recommended.....oh and one more definition....Propaganda....A good look :)
The funniest book I have EVER read!, 18 May 2008
Fans of I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue will need no introduction to this collection - for everyone else all that I can give you is one "defination" - "Reincarnation - to be born again as a tin of condensed milk" - I am a cynical, hard bitten old sod but I cried tears of laughter when I read this book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Absolutely hilarious book, 27 Sep 2008
A fabulously funny book. I laughed and LAUGHED and LAUGHed. My wife laughed so much a small bit of wee came out, but since having our second child, that does happen every 7 weeks or so.
For me, the enjoyment did not come from the letters being a `wind-up' - the author does not relish in making people seem foolish and does not ever really ridicule them. If they did subsequently read their own responses in the book, I think they'd see the funny side. The humour lies in the totally natural and unforced way the author writes about the bizarre, and his intelligent simple constructs in the correspondence. It avoids the lazy, artificially bizarre (hurling raw fish at a radiator) kind of comedy in favour of something more educated and rounded. The comedy reminded me of some of the more intelligent and less crude articles found in Viz, but a bit more grown-up.
The small details had me in hysterics. "Poor water boy" may not seem too hilarious, but in the context of the letter to the Belgian Ambassador, that single phrase had me howling for several (9) minutes and laughing the next morning (Thursday); at least I think it was Thursday because I remember seeing an offal lorry on that day.
Top notch, 25 Sep 2008
Cooper wasn't the first to embark on this genre but he's up there with the best. Funny, whimsical and wonderfully pointless. Henry Root is my all time favourite wind up merchant followed by The Raymond Delauney Emails, which is absolutely hilarious. Cooper's books are perfect for cheering you up on a day when you are feeling a little down.
Boring and really not funny, 27 Mar 2008
The idea for this book is rather simple: write silly letters to various companies and get them to play along with the game. It sounds interesting at first but I found it rather tedious. I had one or two giggles but there's nothing that really made me laugh out loud and I thought that the book lived up to it's title - it really is a timewaster! If you want cranks then I'd recommend watching Fonejacker, which is a very funny show with guaranteed laughs.
Ok - funny in parts, 23 Mar 2008
I bought this as a result of an Amazon recommendation after purchasing and enjoying a couple of Guy Browning books. Whereas they were laugh out loud hilarious, this is mildly amusing verging at times on the childish, but nonetheless, enjoyable to read during the tedium of a 2 hour commute; anything to lighten the day is a good thing, right?!
Hilarious, 20 Nov 2007
It isn't often that a book makes me laugh out loud, but this is genuinely, side-splittingly funny. I drove my husband mad with it, to the point where he too had to read it in sheer self-defence.
The premise is simple, Robin Cooper, the author, picks random institutions and writes them letters of astonishing absurdity in the hope that they will write back and a correspondence can then ensue. You would think, given the patent lunacy of many of his letters, that he would be roundly ignored, but luckily for us, he does get replies, and these with the original letters are what makes up this book.
My particular favourites are the letters in which diagrams of the most terrible, wobbly penned quality are sent out with the letters in illustration of some madly random point, and then these are actually taken seriously by the correspondent. Genius, pure genius.
I am now on my third copy, having lent and mysteriously never been given back my previous two. Be warned this is a book you think you will dip into and then accidentally end up reading in one sitting, howling with laughter.
Not that funny, 11 Sep 2008
Easy read,funny in places but becomes a bit bland.
To say this book is hilarous is a bit over the top if you are looking for a quick and simple read it hits the spot.
A GOOD PICK UP PUT DOWN BOOK, 05 Dec 2007
This is a good little book if you're looking for something humorous that you don't have to get too involved in. It's one of those books that you can just pick up and read a bit of, then come back to later. Especially good for fans of flying. It consists of fictional letters to airlines, although it's easy to believe the letters are real. A harmless bit of fun - and don't we all need more of that?!
Wonderful, wonderful book., 27 Nov 2007
What a wonderful, wonderful book. Years ago I read the Henry Root letters and Air Mail is the equal of that book, if not better. Quite the funniest book I have ever read in years. My favourite letters are the Dear Qantas ones, but they're all funny.
Extremely funny, 09 Nov 2007
Very funny, the fact that it is all short 'stories' as such in the form of letters of complaint to airlines, makes it very easy to pick up and put down without losing the thread of the book. However saying that, I found it so difficult to put down that I finished the book in one day, more please! For me the funniest tales were the Air China and the Korean Air letters. Also the fact that the airlines takes these letters so seriously, makes for even better reading! I would not recommend reading this book in public as it makes you laugh out loud and you may alarm other members of the public who will think you slightly deranged!
Another reviewer took offence at this book, stating it was racist in places. My feelings are that yes some are, but they are meant to be and the basis of the joke is on the writer, showing up the letter writer in a humerous manner, I certainly was not offended by any of the material. I feel that anyone who thinks that they will enjoy this book will also probably enjoy David Charters books: At Bonus Time No One Can Hear You Scream and Trust Me I'm A Banker, absolutely hilarious!
Air Mail - Letters from the worl'd most troublesom passenger, 20 Aug 2007
This is possibly one of the best books I have ever read. It's not often that I find the type of magic thats contained in this book.
I wonder if my neighbours thought something mad was going on, due to cackling coming through the walls. I was infact crying! ha ha
Seriously this is a great book and has bought lots of smiles to myself and my friends. It's particularlly good if you work in aviation as it can be related to.
Brilliant 10 out of 10! - go on buy it, you know you want to!
Yes, but, no but, 06 May 2008
Sorry to voice a note of slight discontent..but.... although this is a very vibrant, well acted, fast firing parody of Dickensian childhood tales (mostly Great Expectations and David Copperfield)... I felt it lacked a little in staying power. Yes, when I first heard it, driving to B+Q, I actually stayed listening to it in the carpark until it had finished (mostly with jaw dramatically dropped). Then I promptly missed most of the following weeks so I was really looking forward to catching up.
There isn't much actual story. I mislabled it on itunes in my haste to listen to it while gardening. The first time through I didn't actually notice that it was out of order until 5 episodes in! The plot was that loose.
Yes, the totally self absorbed Miss Flora Dies-Early and the ravaging underwater squirrels are very delightful creations. However compared to the other great Radio 4 historical pastiches such as The Wordsmiths of Gorsemere and the Christopher Marlowe Mysteries, there seemed to be little background research to the enterprise. Once you get past the jokes, there is very little to keep you amused the second time through.
Inspired and Hilarious Lunacy, 11 Mar 2008
FINALLY - a comedy series with intelligence, wit, and an inspired sense of the surreal. I listened to every episode and every repeat. Superbly acted, utterly brilliant. Writer Mark Evans is one to watch.
Pip Pip Horray, 10 Mar 2008
Aboslutely superb show that I listened to both times it has been on the radio and I went to see recorded!
Beware of the underwater squirrels, the fatal cold, jealous father in laws, wooden sea dog/pirates....oh yes and the Heartthrasher brothers and sister.
I wouldnt have gone to see it if I wasnt such a huge Celia fan, but I am EVER so glad I have followed it through! It is brilliant!
*clicks buy*
Genius, 07 Mar 2008
This is the funniest thing I have ever heard on radio. It is in the mould of classic British humour with lunacy, learning and just plain silliness. It's brilliant and I would put money on it following the path that Hitchhiker's Guide travelled from radio. Can't recommend it more highly and would make a great present.
I must have missed something...but this didnt miss the bin., 11 Aug 2008
I knew within a few pages this was not for me. I am quite a juvenile 36 year old but this was far too juvenile for me, (taking in mind I have a wife and 2 kids - so not 'that' juvenile). It was just not funny and was just stupid. Think of a question, let some chimps type, some completely random answers and publish it. I dont usually throw books away - but within two weeks this was nestled gently at the bottom of the recycling bin, probably the best decision I made, and being safely aware that this copy could no longer inflict itself on anyone else. Dont get me wrong I have a good sense of humour - but this stuff is just unfunny crap.
Some people may find it funny, but hey 'Last of the Summer Wine' lasted for years so there is no accounting for taste - this book made me smile less (and I despise Last Of The Summer Wine).
I would like to think that (if it is ever re-printed), the last question being "How do you feel now sucker, after parting with your hard earned cash for this dirge?". The title of the book is quite funny, hence 1 star.
PS I have an idea, I should give this book 5 stars, that is far more hilarious than anything between its pages.
Do Arseholes write about Ants and 101 OBRQs?, 30 Apr 2008
I read the negative reviews here about this book and thought what a load of stuffshirts. With my well honed schoolboy sense of humour I couldn't wait to take this to the inner sanctum to read.
I have to agree with the 'stuffshirts' I am afraid. I cannot even say it is 'puerile', it's just rubbish. I think there was something that made me laugh somewhere but not sure.
A shame, a great title and a great idea for a parody on the absolutely excellent New Scientist books but I think they had more humour in them than this does. It reminded me of 'Shite's unoriginal miscellany' the author's name was a perfect description of the contents.
Very funny!, 28 Mar 2008
It's quite scary to see that some people have taken this book seriously. Maybe it is a symptom of the world today but it's good to know that the rest of us have a sense of humour!
What?, 06 Mar 2008
This is the old adage "Ask a stupid question, get a stupid answer" in book form.
Whilst some of the entries are very funny, and a lot of the questions invite bizarre answers, the reader is left at the end wondering... why?
Why do people feel compelled to write in with random yarns that could be misconstrued as fact? Why do I still have to check myself thinking that some of it mught be true? Why did they have to publish a book-full?
Truth be told, this is a book you leaf through at bed time, have a little chuckle, then put down, but the irony is not lost. This is a book full of people asking questions no one asks, being answered by people who have far too much spare time, and you sit there thinking "why I am bothering to read it?"
It's not an awful book, it fills a gap. But, like the articles themselves, it is a bit pointless.
I felt compelled to review this as it was so bad, 03 Mar 2008
I bought this book thinking it might contain lots of interesting and random facts about things and life in general. It is a very small book containing fictional letters from people which are meant to be humourous but if you have half a brain it is really very tedious and uninteresting.
There are smatterings of factual information but you would have to be aware of this information in the first place in order to sieve it out of the sea of complete and utter nonsense it is contained within.
In short, do not buy this if you are hoping for an interesting read. Perhaps younger readers would enjoy it but they would certainly not learn anything.
I did find this book useful as a sleeping aid as it is so competely boring and pointless.
Wheres Bin Laden, 08 Jan 2008
A very good wheres wally take on Bin Laden. Follow Bin laden on his journey of terror around the world. A rather easy book and should not take more than a few mins to complete each page but still very commical. I loved bill gates punching a man in a apple costume, there is alot to look for in each page which does add more fun and lifetime to the book. probably the funniest page is the alqaeda pajama party which seems to add a more innocence and playfulness to this terror group =/ All in all, an entertaining book to give to friends. I gave it as a secret santa
Couldn't wait 4 weeks for it to arrive, 13 Jan 2007
Right so it appears to take the stance that the US & co can't find Bin Laden due to a lack of intelligence. So its now up to you to find him and a variety of cartoon cia agents, well known faces and strange goings on.
Basically its good for the effect, the cover along would make anyone chuckle and the puzzles inside have the chance to find Bin Laden as well as the likes of Jamie Oliver cooking Nigella Lawson. I was intrigued as to whether this could upset anyone and other than Mr Bin Laden not getting any money for using his name, the US for being mocked for not finding him or the people of amsterdam being primarily a bit pervy then we should not see anyone protesting. I will check up on here to see if anyone reviews it differently.
As for finding the things you are supposed to its a five minute book to take in the idea of the game, it could be a lot longer to find everything and everyone suggested. I found Bin Laden very quickly once I'd got passed the disguises and can now travel the world in the hope of a substantial reward from the CIA???
Excllent compact guide., 11 Feb 2008
This book was recommended to me by a BBC producer when I started trying to write comedy. Yes it's simplistic, but it works. JV gives you a brilliant method for developing characters and plots. I still dip into it now and again when I'm struggling with something. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone. It's a nice slim volume rather than a big fat tome, too. Which is nice.
Great ideas on structure for *all* writers., 09 Jan 2008
This and Vorhaus's other book on writing, "Creativity Rules" have been invaluable in helping me write more shapely fiction and I immediately recommend them to anyone who tells me they want to write, too.
His ideas on story structure are presented in a fun and funny way, but whenever I approach other books on writing I feel like Vorhaus got there first with this light little book, before all the guys with their deeply important mythic cycle breezeblock-workbooks hung around their necks -- and he got there with a smile on his face.
His principles on comedy in this book have given me what feels like X-ray vision when it comes to watching popular culture of any kind. This is someone who's been paying close attention to how story, humour, and thinking work, and he's given us all his crib notes.
A big help but use it wisely, 01 Aug 2007
Doreen has never been a confident public speaker but last summer she was faced with the daunting challenge of delivering a speech in a local debate. 'This house believes that prostitution should be legalised' was never going to be an easy motion to put to a Christian faith-group. Apparently she surmised that the only chance to get the audience on her side would be through the use of humour. Not a bad idea, I'll warrant, but Doreen (physical characteristics aside) has never been a particularly funny woman. I bought this excellent guidebook in order to help but I fear that she failed to exploit its full potential. If she had even glanced over the explanations of word-play, misdirection and irony then it certainly didn't come across. Rather, I believe that she followed in the footsteps of Roy 'Chubby' Brown and confined her research to one particular facet of comedy.
Well, I don't think even Doreen had intended to turn the air quite so blue, but the warm-up gin and tonics went far beyond having a 'calming' influence. I fear that she was egged-on even further by vocal support from the elderly Mrs. Dewhurst. The isolated cries of approval were probably not the best way to gauge the sentiment of the room, if one considers that Mrs Dewhurst tends to punctuate even the most leisurely of Sunday sermons with bouts of raucous cheering. Needless to say, the speech was not met with the universal acclaim that Doreen had anticipated. Still, technically the debate can't be chalked up as a loss. The melee that broke out (after a particularly crass 'joke' that would have made Ron Jeremy blush) ended any chances of a civil vote being held.
Excellent start to wannabe writers, 25 Jan 2006
I have read and re-read this book in its entirety, and in my view is invaluable if you want to become a more confident writer/performer or just want to have a deeper understanding of what humour actually is. The author offers many exercises for the reader to complete. This built up my confidence and made me realise that you can make a whole bunch of boring and mundane parts of life into supremely comedy sequences.
First the basics of what makes us laugh are explained. The book then moves into defining how to make your comic characters and to forget about why you think a certain aspect is unfunny.
After this the book is split up into seperate sections depending on which field of comedy you wish to pursue, be it sitcom, sketch, stand-up, and, ahem, practical jokes (it is hard to show sarcasm through text).
The end of the book applies to every comedian, helping you to perfect your work, and ultimately selling your material.
Unfortunately the book is not prfect throughout. Most explainations of certain comic situations involve the use of a 1980's film or tv series, so if you are under the age of, say 25 like me (or, if you didn't watch American shows of the 80's) I would strongly suggest buying Mel Helitzer's Comedy Writing Secrets, 2005. Apart from this I strongly recommend this book, trust me you can't go wrong.
WOW!, 21 May 2003
This is a thoroughly recommended book. I used to struggle at parties for things to talk about, which used to make me feel awkward, this book has opened my eyes and now I can make humorous conversation.........a definite winner with the ladies.
As for the sitcom material, I've been giving it a go.
I feel funnier than I ever have....get this book
1065 or what?, 06 Mar 2008
I love this play. I acted it out in 1972 and loved it at Eggars Grammar School, Alton ,Hampshire.
Miss Burt I thank you. You were my inspiration1
Great Historical Humour, 09 Feb 2008
The precursor to the Horrible History series, '1066' has long been a classic. There's nothing much I can add to the other reviews - it's a funny history book.
Oh, and to the person who described it as a bad history book and "wildly inaccurate": You, sir, are an idiot.
Noel and Ellen's Inspiration, 12 Dec 2007
Noel happily made reference to "1066 and All That" on the fly-leaf of his own title. Ellen had never heard of it, and wanted to know why anyone-else would have, either. "It's a classic of the British hunour genre", said Noel. "It's the genre's 'Top Book'! Any British humour writer, with leanings towards history would give Harold II's eye-teeth to be compared with it!" And then it turns out to be its 75th anniversary, and everyone wants to parody it (2066 and All That, 1966 and All That, etc) and be compared with it. Too spooky! Don't you think?
Absolutely Hilarious, 22 Nov 2007
This book is one of the top comedy books in the world ever and must be read immediately by anyone needing serious cheering up, anyone interested in history, and anyone who needs a good laugh.
The book takes the form of an abridged jaunt through the history of Britain from 1066. It is set out as a school text book, and at the end of every chapter is an exam. The exams for me are the absolute highlight of the book, parodying so well, the exact stupidity of exam questions and the ridiculous language in which they are written.
The theory of the book is that this is history as it is remembered by adults from what they learned as a child, so | | |