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 Customer Reviews
Big Disappointment, 10 Nov 2008
I am a huge fan of Sue Townsend's Adrian Mole books and needless to say I was waiting in great anticipation to see which woes would befall poor Adrian in this latest book. I was so disappointed with the entire book, there was no set story line, no humerous family hijinks, none of what makes me love Adrian Mole. In fact at the end of the book I felt a dislike towards his character. I've always had a slight issue with Sue Townsend's continuity in the series of Mole books but this one took the cake-in 'The Cappucino Years' set in 97-98 Adrian's sons are 3 and 13, in this book, set in 99-01 they start off as being 7 and 13, so William has miraculously aged 4 years in 2 and Glenn has not aged at all! Small details which I have picked up and know from re-reading previous Mole books hundreds of times like Glenns birthday being in April and now in this book being in February just irritated me. That may sound a little precious but when Ivan Braithwaite-who is mentioned to have died in 2000 in the book 'Adrian Mole & The Weapons of Mass Destruction' (set in 02-03) while still being married to Pauline Mole at the end of this book- he is still alive and kicking and back living with his ex-wife Tania. There are repeated storylines such as Adrians dad, George, being hospitalised with back injuries leading to him suffering a super bug which is straight out of 'Weapons of Mass Destruction' and whole lines are re-used from earlier books. I may have a pedantic view on this but I think as a long time fan and reader of Townsend's books that she could at least keep track of even the simplest facts. I wouldn't recommend this book to others who have read all the previous books as I believe many would feel the same way as I do.
Always, reliably, hilarious and contemporary, 08 Nov 2008
I have now read every version and permutation of Adrian Mole's diaries, from when I was a teengaer to the present day as a mother in my thirties. I never fail to laugh out loud at this Middle England pedant, whose obsession with detail, shameless snobbery and outrageous intellectual pretension makes him strangely likeable.
Townsend has started making surreal cameos into Mole's life, but rather than interfere with your suspension of disbelief, it enhances the joke. Adrian's surroundings pose a succint picture of modern Britain and this book is no different. We find him raising his two sons, William and Glen
with admirable steadfastnes: one of the many qualities that prevents the reader ever actually dislking Mole. For all his pretensions and self importance, the reader cannot help but root for him, especially contrasted with the unbearably smug Pandora and his fickle parents.
The poetry and prose that Mole subjects the reader to, is hilarious by its very banality and self importance. Townsend is firing arrows at the literaray establishment left, right and centre, always with tongue firmly in cheek.
Once more, an unsuitable ladyfriend plagues Adrian's disastrous love life to comic effect, but his capers are nothing compared with the chopping and changing of his and Pandora's parents. Pandora herself is a ruthlessly ambitious MP and again, Townsend merrily lampoons Blair's Britain. Its hilarous how much Adrian annoys her and serve her right too!
I thoroughly enjoyed this from cover to cover. It takes real skill to make a franchise fresh and entertaining every time, but I could never get bored of Adrian Mole. Five stars every time!
Long Waited, 07 Nov 2008
I had several books to read, some by my favourite authors, but everything
drops when Sue Townsend has a new one out. To me it's like being
given a big cream cake to eat by myself.
I luxuriate in 1 book, l get into my best position for reading and just
enjoy.
If your looking for something new in Sue Townsend's writing, then this
book isn't for you. If you like all the Adrian Mole books before, you will
love this one as well. There is no real subject matter, it's just how
life treats Adrian, and how he can never see the other side of things.
He is still as naive as he was 25 years ago, and Pandora is still an
MP.
I have an idea for Sue for a new book, Let one of Adrian's boys start
writing a diary.
Brilliant. Thank you Sue.
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Customer Reviews
Big Disappointment, 10 Nov 2008
I am a huge fan of Sue Townsend's Adrian Mole books and needless to say I was waiting in great anticipation to see which woes would befall poor Adrian in this latest book. I was so disappointed with the entire book, there was no set story line, no humerous family hijinks, none of what makes me love Adrian Mole. In fact at the end of the book I felt a dislike towards his character. I've always had a slight issue with Sue Townsend's continuity in the series of Mole books but this one took the cake-in 'The Cappucino Years' set in 97-98 Adrian's sons are 3 and 13, in this book, set in 99-01 they start off as being 7 and 13, so William has miraculously aged 4 years in 2 and Glenn has not aged at all! Small details which I have picked up and know from re-reading previous Mole books hundreds of times like Glenns birthday being in April and now in this book being in February just irritated me. That may sound a little precious but when Ivan Braithwaite-who is mentioned to have died in 2000 in the book 'Adrian Mole & The Weapons of Mass Destruction' (set in 02-03) while still being married to Pauline Mole at the end of this book- he is still alive and kicking and back living with his ex-wife Tania. There are repeated storylines such as Adrians dad, George, being hospitalised with back injuries leading to him suffering a super bug which is straight out of 'Weapons of Mass Destruction' and whole lines are re-used from earlier books. I may have a pedantic view on this but I think as a long time fan and reader of Townsend's books that she could at least keep track of even the simplest facts. I wouldn't recommend this book to others who have read all the previous books as I believe many would feel the same way as I do.
Always, reliably, hilarious and contemporary, 08 Nov 2008
I have now read every version and permutation of Adrian Mole's diaries, from when I was a teengaer to the present day as a mother in my thirties. I never fail to laugh out loud at this Middle England pedant, whose obsession with detail, shameless snobbery and outrageous intellectual pretension makes him strangely likeable.
Townsend has started making surreal cameos into Mole's life, but rather than interfere with your suspension of disbelief, it enhances the joke. Adrian's surroundings pose a succint picture of modern Britain and this book is no different. We find him raising his two sons, William and Glen
with admirable steadfastnes: one of the many qualities that prevents the reader ever actually dislking Mole. For all his pretensions and self importance, the reader cannot help but root for him, especially contrasted with the unbearably smug Pandora and his fickle parents.
The poetry and prose that Mole subjects the reader to, is hilarious by its very banality and self importance. Townsend is firing arrows at the literaray establishment left, right and centre, always with tongue firmly in cheek.
Once more, an unsuitable ladyfriend plagues Adrian's disastrous love life to comic effect, but his capers are nothing compared with the chopping and changing of his and Pandora's parents. Pandora herself is a ruthlessly ambitious MP and again, Townsend merrily lampoons Blair's Britain. Its hilarous how much Adrian annoys her and serve her right too!
I thoroughly enjoyed this from cover to cover. It takes real skill to make a franchise fresh and entertaining every time, but I could never get bored of Adrian Mole. Five stars every time!
Long Waited, 07 Nov 2008
I had several books to read, some by my favourite authors, but everything
drops when Sue Townsend has a new one out. To me it's like being
given a big cream cake to eat by myself.
I luxuriate in 1 book, l get into my best position for reading and just
enjoy.
If your looking for something new in Sue Townsend's writing, then this
book isn't for you. If you like all the Adrian Mole books before, you will
love this one as well. There is no real subject matter, it's just how
life treats Adrian, and how he can never see the other side of things.
He is still as naive as he was 25 years ago, and Pandora is still an
MP.
I have an idea for Sue for a new book, Let one of Adrian's boys start
writing a diary.
Brilliant. Thank you Sue.
A fantastic book about a teenager!!!!, 01 May 2007
This book is great. It's about a teenager who is obbsesed with the spots on this chin and claims to be an interlectual. This diary is about the ups and downs of a worried teenagers life.
I reccomend this book to people from 12-1012!
The 20th Century's Samuel Pepys, 20 Nov 2006
It's 1981 : Margaret Thatcher is Prime Minister, Prince Charles is preparing for his wedding to Lady Diana Spencer and nobody in England has ever heard of the Falkland Islands. Meanwhile Adrian Mole, a spotty kid from Leicester, has a new diary.
Adrian is an only child and is only a few months short of his fourteenth birthday. Somewhat pretentious, occasionally insensitive and just a little dim, he has somehow managed to convince himself that he is an intellectual. (He claims to have read "War and Peace" within 24 hours - he thought it was `quite good' - while "Animal Farm" has led him to consider being a vet when he grows up). Almost inevitably, he's started writing poetry, which he occasionally sends to the BBC. Mr and Mrs Lucas, who live next door, cause something of a scandal when they become the first couple on his street to get divorced. (In fact, he's nearly delighted with the fallout, until his own family get caught up in it). These aren't his only problems, of course - he suffers from acne, his O-Levels and CSEs are looming and he's routinely menaced by Barry Kent at school. As a member of the Good Samaritans, a charity group he's joined, he misses his maths lessons on a Monday. The downside is that he has to help out an eighty-one year old war-veteran called Bert Baxter. Bert's drinking and smoking are bad enough, but the fact that Bert reads the Morning Star has led Adrian to suspect the pensioner is actually a communist. However, it's not all doom and gloom : Adrian is in love with Pandora Braithwaite .
This is a very funny book - it's always been one of my brother's favourites and I'm sure he wouldn't be alone in viewing it a modern classic. It is written as a diary, rather than a novel - each day is presented as a journal entry, with some days being given more detail than others. While it may be a little more accessible to those who grew up in the UK and Ireland in the 1980s, it's still very funny and is hugely recommended.
Excellent Read For Both The Young And Old, 15 Sep 2006
I read this book when I was a similar age to Adrian and found it a very addictive book, being able to identify with Adrian and his perception of the world. I just couldn't understand the adults in his life and the crazy things they did.
Now I'm older and have read the book again it's even funnier because you can see how well Sue Townsend has written this 13 (and three quarters) year old's diary but now understand a lot more of the humour and what's going on. It's almost as if it's a completely different book and I enjoyed reading it again after all these years.
That's not to say that you can only enjoy it if you read it first when you're in your teens. It's an extra bonus to read it that way but it's still an excellent book for adults to read as well.
The book has dated now, being set in 1984. Teenagers may have a problem if they aren't aware of certain events from that time (Mrs Thatcher, the Royal Wedding etc) and also might be thrown slightly by how cheap everything seems to me (a Mars Bar for 15 pence?) but those occurances are few and far between and the book is still very easily enjoyed.
If you have never read this book then, young or old, I heartily recommend it to you. If it is a book from your childhood and it has been many years since you last read it then you should definitely pick up a copy again or dig out your old one. Re-read it and laugh once more at the hilarious world of Adrian Mole.
Wickedly funny, 02 Aug 2006
This book was an absolute joy, definately the funniest book I have read for years. I heard people talk about this "diary" when at school but only recently decided to read it. In all books I have read, there are few characters who would top the inimitable Adrian Mole. A fantastic read, so if you're feeling blue, need a pick me up or you just enjoy a good hoot - then look no further than this. I may be 15 years behind most in discovering this book, but it was worth the wait.
Very well written, 28 Jul 2006
I really enjoyed the first diary of Adrian Mole. It was interesting, well-written, funny and kept my attention throughout the book.
The diaries of Adrian Mole are about a boy called Adrian Mole (not surprisingly!). He writes in his diary every day about love, parents, family, Bert (the old man he goes to visit), the Dog (the Dog never has a name, he is always refered to as The Dog) and many other things.
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Customer Reviews
Big Disappointment, 10 Nov 2008
I am a huge fan of Sue Townsend's Adrian Mole books and needless to say I was waiting in great anticipation to see which woes would befall poor Adrian in this latest book. I was so disappointed with the entire book, there was no set story line, no humerous family hijinks, none of what makes me love Adrian Mole. In fact at the end of the book I felt a dislike towards his character. I've always had a slight issue with Sue Townsend's continuity in the series of Mole books but this one took the cake-in 'The Cappucino Years' set in 97-98 Adrian's sons are 3 and 13, in this book, set in 99-01 they start off as being 7 and 13, so William has miraculously aged 4 years in 2 and Glenn has not aged at all! Small details which I have picked up and know from re-reading previous Mole books hundreds of times like Glenns birthday being in April and now in this book being in February just irritated me. That may sound a little precious but when Ivan Braithwaite-who is mentioned to have died in 2000 in the book 'Adrian Mole & The Weapons of Mass Destruction' (set in 02-03) while still being married to Pauline Mole at the end of this book- he is still alive and kicking and back living with his ex-wife Tania. There are repeated storylines such as Adrians dad, George, being hospitalised with back injuries leading to him suffering a super bug which is straight out of 'Weapons of Mass Destruction' and whole lines are re-used from earlier books. I may have a pedantic view on this but I think as a long time fan and reader of Townsend's books that she could at least keep track of even the simplest facts. I wouldn't recommend this book to others who have read all the previous books as I believe many would feel the same way as I do.
Always, reliably, hilarious and contemporary, 08 Nov 2008
I have now read every version and permutation of Adrian Mole's diaries, from when I was a teengaer to the present day as a mother in my thirties. I never fail to laugh out loud at this Middle England pedant, whose obsession with detail, shameless snobbery and outrageous intellectual pretension makes him strangely likeable.
Townsend has started making surreal cameos into Mole's life, but rather than interfere with your suspension of disbelief, it enhances the joke. Adrian's surroundings pose a succint picture of modern Britain and this book is no different. We find him raising his two sons, William and Glen
with admirable steadfastnes: one of the many qualities that prevents the reader ever actually dislking Mole. For all his pretensions and self importance, the reader cannot help but root for him, especially contrasted with the unbearably smug Pandora and his fickle parents.
The poetry and prose that Mole subjects the reader to, is hilarious by its very banality and self importance. Townsend is firing arrows at the literaray establishment left, right and centre, always with tongue firmly in cheek.
Once more, an unsuitable ladyfriend plagues Adrian's disastrous love life to comic effect, but his capers are nothing compared with the chopping and changing of his and Pandora's parents. Pandora herself is a ruthlessly ambitious MP and again, Townsend merrily lampoons Blair's Britain. Its hilarous how much Adrian annoys her and serve her right too!
I thoroughly enjoyed this from cover to cover. It takes real skill to make a franchise fresh and entertaining every time, but I could never get bored of Adrian Mole. Five stars every time!
Long Waited, 07 Nov 2008
I had several books to read, some by my favourite authors, but everything
drops when Sue Townsend has a new one out. To me it's like being
given a big cream cake to eat by myself.
I luxuriate in 1 book, l get into my best position for reading and just
enjoy.
If your looking for something new in Sue Townsend's writing, then this
book isn't for you. If you like all the Adrian Mole books before, you will
love this one as well. There is no real subject matter, it's just how
life treats Adrian, and how he can never see the other side of things.
He is still as naive as he was 25 years ago, and Pandora is still an
MP.
I have an idea for Sue for a new book, Let one of Adrian's boys start
writing a diary.
Brilliant. Thank you Sue.
A fantastic book about a teenager!!!!, 01 May 2007
This book is great. It's about a teenager who is obbsesed with the spots on this chin and claims to be an interlectual. This diary is about the ups and downs of a worried teenagers life.
I reccomend this book to people from 12-1012!
The 20th Century's Samuel Pepys, 20 Nov 2006
It's 1981 : Margaret Thatcher is Prime Minister, Prince Charles is preparing for his wedding to Lady Diana Spencer and nobody in England has ever heard of the Falkland Islands. Meanwhile Adrian Mole, a spotty kid from Leicester, has a new diary.
Adrian is an only child and is only a few months short of his fourteenth birthday. Somewhat pretentious, occasionally insensitive and just a little dim, he has somehow managed to convince himself that he is an intellectual. (He claims to have read "War and Peace" within 24 hours - he thought it was `quite good' - while "Animal Farm" has led him to consider being a vet when he grows up). Almost inevitably, he's started writing poetry, which he occasionally sends to the BBC. Mr and Mrs Lucas, who live next door, cause something of a scandal when they become the first couple on his street to get divorced. (In fact, he's nearly delighted with the fallout, until his own family get caught up in it). These aren't his only problems, of course - he suffers from acne, his O-Levels and CSEs are looming and he's routinely menaced by Barry Kent at school. As a member of the Good Samaritans, a charity group he's joined, he misses his maths lessons on a Monday. The downside is that he has to help out an eighty-one year old war-veteran called Bert Baxter. Bert's drinking and smoking are bad enough, but the fact that Bert reads the Morning Star has led Adrian to suspect the pensioner is actually a communist. However, it's not all doom and gloom : Adrian is in love with Pandora Braithwaite .
This is a very funny book - it's always been one of my brother's favourites and I'm sure he wouldn't be alone in viewing it a modern classic. It is written as a diary, rather than a novel - each day is presented as a journal entry, with some days being given more detail than others. While it may be a little more accessible to those who grew up in the UK and Ireland in the 1980s, it's still very funny and is hugely recommended.
Excellent Read For Both The Young And Old, 15 Sep 2006
I read this book when I was a similar age to Adrian and found it a very addictive book, being able to identify with Adrian and his perception of the world. I just couldn't understand the adults in his life and the crazy things they did.
Now I'm older and have read the book again it's even funnier because you can see how well Sue Townsend has written this 13 (and three quarters) year old's diary but now understand a lot more of the humour and what's going on. It's almost as if it's a completely different book and I enjoyed reading it again after all these years.
That's not to say that you can only enjoy it if you read it first when you're in your teens. It's an extra bonus to read it that way but it's still an excellent book for adults to read as well.
The book has dated now, being set in 1984. Teenagers may have a problem if they aren't aware of certain events from that time (Mrs Thatcher, the Royal Wedding etc) and also might be thrown slightly by how cheap everything seems to me (a Mars Bar for 15 pence?) but those occurances are few and far between and the book is still very easily enjoyed.
If you have never read this book then, young or old, I heartily recommend it to you. If it is a book from your childhood and it has been many years since you last read it then you should definitely pick up a copy again or dig out your old one. Re-read it and laugh once more at the hilarious world of Adrian Mole.
Wickedly funny, 02 Aug 2006
This book was an absolute joy, definately the funniest book I have read for years. I heard people talk about this "diary" when at school but only recently decided to read it. In all books I have read, there are few characters who would top the inimitable Adrian Mole. A fantastic read, so if you're feeling blue, need a pick me up or you just enjoy a good hoot - then look no further than this. I may be 15 years behind most in discovering this book, but it was worth the wait.
Very well written, 28 Jul 2006
I really enjoyed the first diary of Adrian Mole. It was interesting, well-written, funny and kept my attention throughout the book.
The diaries of Adrian Mole are about a boy called Adrian Mole (not surprisingly!). He writes in his diary every day about love, parents, family, Bert (the old man he goes to visit), the Dog (the Dog never has a name, he is always refered to as The Dog) and many other things.
A wonderful character, 30 Dec 2007
Sue Townsend's inimitable character, Adrian Mole, again provided me with much amusement. This is his diary circa 1982, 1983. It's wonderful to see the early nineteen eighties through the angst ridden eyes of the neglected tortured soul that is the eponymous Adrian. Okay so, he is not in actuality "a tortured soul", but Sue Townsend's brilliant portrayal of Adrian Mole's overreactions, mixed in with his literary intellect, innocence, inexplicable recesses in knowledge, and accidental humour make for another fantastic read. I simply love how unique and original the Adrian Mole diaries are. I have given it a four rather than a five because I thought the first diary was slightly better. It is still a fantastic read and I would certainly recommend it.
In the Days Before Blogging..., 27 Feb 2007
It's 1982 : Margaret Thatcher is Prime-Minister and Britain is at war with Argentina over a couple of sheep-infested islands in the South Atlantic. Meanwhile, the second instalment of the Mole Diaries is being written by a spotty, fifteen year old intellectual from Leicester.
Adrian proves to be a slightly different character in this book - I suppose he's actually grown up a little. He still has a pretentious streak, he continues to be a touch insensitive at times, he doesn't always see the blindingly obvious and he still (mistakenly) sees himself as an intellectual. However, sometimes, he gets the point all too well and delivers a well-penned (not to mention a well-deserved) kick in the arse. "The Growing Pains of Adrian Mole" covers a traumatic period for Adrian : his O-Levels and CSEs are looming while the significant fallout from his parents affairs have to be dealt with. He's still in love with Pandora, though the path of true love has a few tumbles in store for our spotty Lothario. (He's very keen to see a bit more loving, though he'd happily settle for a glimpse of nipple. Pandora, on the other hand, isn't in quite such a rush). The young couple still help Bert Baxter (a war veteran in his eighties) and Queenie (Bert's recently acquired second wife). Despite Bert's hobbies - drinking, smoking and communism - Bert appears to be one of the closest friends Adrian has. Adrian still has the problem of Barry Kent, the school bully : however, some very surprising progress is made over the course of the year.
Starting in April 1982 and finishing in May 1983, some of the big news stories at the time are touched on - the arrival of breakfast television in the UK, the kidnapping of Shergar and the Falklands War, Overall, it does prove to be a very funny book - though there are a couple of sad moments and a few serious points made. Depressingly, some of the points Adrian makes are just as relevant today as they were over twenty years ago. Listening to Radio Four at one point, Adrian notes that the government has decided to spend a billion pounds on war equipment. He then mentions that one of his school's science laboratories is being closed down because it can't afford to employ a new teacher. (Blair is throwing money at the Iraq War having conveniently forgotten all about "education, education, education"). Then Adrian's Irish neighbour, Mr O'Leary, returns to Ireland to vote in the Irish General Election. On his way back to Leicester, however, Mr O'Leary is detained at the East Midlands Airport on being suspicion of being a terrorist. (Admittedly, today the focus has shifted a different group). Later, when a General Election is called in the UK, one of the candidates mentioned is Duncan McIntosh. A member of the "Send `Em Back Where They Came From Party", Mr McIntosh advocates compulsory repatriation of people with black, brown and yellow skin, the Irish, the Welsh, the Scottish and all those with Norman blood. (With all the recent hysteria about immigrants, Mr McIntosh's party would probably have a good shout at government). Well worth reading, and highly recommended.
You thought it was good when you were a teenager!, 09 Aug 2005
I have to say that the naivity and self-importance and obstinant belief in his being an 'intellectual' are largely wasted when you read it as a young teenager. You think that his posturing and snobby behaviours class him as such... don't be annoyed, its part of the magic of the book, and when you read the book some years later you realise, with hilarity, and sometimes embarassment how young and naive both you and dearest Adrian were
.
Read and devour his books whilst young, see his pains and embarassments as he tries to come to terms with his existence in a Midlands cul-de-sac when he dreams of being a literary genius as you grow in age with him.... then put the first two books away until you're at least 20, open them up again and enjoy them with new eyes.
I'm sure by the time you hit 30 they would've taken on another character!!
BEST BOOK EVER, 25 Feb 2005
i love this book, at times i thought i was reading about my own life. i am 15 as well and went throught some of the same things. great book for age 13 and up. hope you enjoy
troubled teenagers, 07 Feb 2005
The growing pains of Adrian Mole is an ecxellent diary of a troubled teenager. Family problems, girlfriend problems, friendship problems, hes got it all. This book can be used as a guide for troubled teenagers or my favourite use an excellent read. 5 Star definetely.
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Customer Reviews
Big Disappointment, 10 Nov 2008
I am a huge fan of Sue Townsend's Adrian Mole books and needless to say I was waiting in great anticipation to see which woes would befall poor Adrian in this latest book. I was so disappointed with the entire book, there was no set story line, no humerous family hijinks, none of what makes me love Adrian Mole. In fact at the end of the book I felt a dislike towards his character. I've always had a slight issue with Sue Townsend's continuity in the series of Mole books but this one took the cake-in 'The Cappucino Years' set in 97-98 Adrian's sons are 3 and 13, in this book, set in 99-01 they start off as being 7 and 13, so William has miraculously aged 4 years in 2 and Glenn has not aged at all! Small details which I have picked up and know from re-reading previous Mole books hundreds of times like Glenns birthday being in April and now in this book being in February just irritated me. That may sound a little precious but when Ivan Braithwaite-who is mentioned to have died in 2000 in the book 'Adrian Mole & The Weapons of Mass Destruction' (set in 02-03) while still being married to Pauline Mole at the end of this book- he is still alive and kicking and back living with his ex-wife Tania. There are repeated storylines such as Adrians dad, George, being hospitalised with back injuries leading to him suffering a super bug which is straight out of 'Weapons of Mass Destruction' and whole lines are re-used from earlier books. I may have a pedantic view on this but I think as a long time fan and reader of Townsend's books that she could at least keep track of even the simplest facts. I wouldn't recommend this book to others who have read all the previous books as I believe many would feel the same way as I do. Always, reliably, hilarious and contemporary, 08 Nov 2008
I have now read every version and permutation of Adrian Mole's diaries, from when I was a teengaer to the present day as a mother in my thirties. I never fail to laugh out loud at this Middle England pedant, whose obsession with detail, shameless snobbery and outrageous intellectual pretension makes him strangely likeable.
Townsend has started making surreal cameos into Mole's life, but rather than interfere with your suspension of disbelief, it enhances the joke. Adrian's surroundings pose a succint picture of modern Britain and this book is no different. We find him raising his two sons, William and Glen
with admirable steadfastnes: one of the many qualities that prevents the reader ever actually dislking Mole. For all his pretensions and self importance, the reader cannot help but root for him, especially contrasted with the unbearably smug Pandora and his fickle parents.
The poetry and prose that Mole subjects the reader to, is hilarious by its very banality and self importance. Townsend is firing arrows at the literaray establishment left, right and centre, always with tongue firmly in cheek.
Once more, an unsuitable ladyfriend plagues Adrian's disastrous love life to comic effect, but his capers are nothing compared with the chopping and changing of his and Pandora's parents. Pandora herself is a ruthlessly ambitious MP and again, Townsend merrily lampoons Blair's Britain. Its hilarous how much Adrian annoys her and serve her right too!
I thoroughly enjoyed this from cover to cover. It takes real skill to make a franchise fresh and entertaining every time, but I could never get bored of Adrian Mole. Five stars every time! Long Waited, 07 Nov 2008
I had several books to read, some by my favourite authors, but everything
drops when Sue Townsend has a new one out. To me it's like being
given a big cream cake to eat by myself.
I luxuriate in 1 book, l get into my best position for reading and just
enjoy.
If your looking for something new in Sue Townsend's writing, then this
book isn't for you. If you like all the Adrian Mole books before, you will
love this one as well. There is no real subject matter, it's just how
life treats Adrian, and how he can never see the other side of things.
He is still as naive as he was 25 years ago, and Pandora is still an
MP.
I have an idea for Sue for a new book, Let one of Adrian's boys start
writing a diary.
Brilliant. Thank you Sue. A fantastic book about a teenager!!!!, 01 May 2007
This book is great. It's about a teenager who is obbsesed with the spots on this chin and claims to be an interlectual. This diary is about the ups and downs of a worried teenagers life.
I reccomend this book to people from 12-1012!
The 20th Century's Samuel Pepys, 20 Nov 2006
It's 1981 : Margaret Thatcher is Prime Minister, Prince Charles is preparing for his wedding to Lady Diana Spencer and nobody in England has ever heard of the Falkland Islands. Meanwhile Adrian Mole, a spotty kid from Leicester, has a new diary.
Adrian is an only child and is only a few months short of his fourteenth birthday. Somewhat pretentious, occasionally insensitive and just a little dim, he has somehow managed to convince himself that he is an intellectual. (He claims to have read "War and Peace" within 24 hours - he thought it was `quite good' - while "Animal Farm" has led him to consider being a vet when he grows up). Almost inevitably, he's started writing poetry, which he occasionally sends to the BBC. Mr and Mrs Lucas, who live next door, cause something of a scandal when they become the first couple on his street to get divorced. (In fact, he's nearly delighted with the fallout, until his own family get caught up in it). These aren't his only problems, of course - he suffers from acne, his O-Levels and CSEs are looming and he's routinely menaced by Barry Kent at school. As a member of the Good Samaritans, a charity group he's joined, he misses his maths lessons on a Monday. The downside is that he has to help out an eighty-one year old war-veteran called Bert Baxter. Bert's drinking and smoking are bad enough, but the fact that Bert reads the Morning Star has led Adrian to suspect the pensioner is actually a communist. However, it's not all doom and gloom : Adrian is in love with Pandora Braithwaite .
This is a very funny book - it's always been one of my brother's favourites and I'm sure he wouldn't be alone in viewing it a modern classic. It is written as a diary, rather than a novel - each day is presented as a journal entry, with some days being given more detail than others. While it may be a little more accessible to those who grew up in the UK and Ireland in the 1980s, it's still very funny and is hugely recommended. Excellent Read For Both The Young And Old, 15 Sep 2006
I read this book when I was a similar age to Adrian and found it a very addictive book, being able to identify with Adrian and his perception of the world. I just couldn't understand the adults in his life and the crazy things they did.
Now I'm older and have read the book again it's even funnier because you can see how well Sue Townsend has written this 13 (and three quarters) year old's diary but now understand a lot more of the humour and what's going on. It's almost as if it's a completely different book and I enjoyed reading it again after all these years.
That's not to say that you can only enjoy it if you read it first when you're in your teens. It's an extra bonus to read it that way but it's still an excellent book for adults to read as well.
The book has dated now, being set in 1984. Teenagers may have a problem if they aren't aware of certain events from that time (Mrs Thatcher, the Royal Wedding etc) and also might be thrown slightly by how cheap everything seems to me (a Mars Bar for 15 pence?) but those occurances are few and far between and the book is still very easily enjoyed.
If you have never read this book then, young or old, I heartily recommend it to you. If it is a book from your childhood and it has been many years since you last read it then you should definitely pick up a copy again or dig out your old one. Re-read it and laugh once more at the hilarious world of Adrian Mole. Wickedly funny, 02 Aug 2006
This book was an absolute joy, definately the funniest book I have read for years. I heard people talk about this "diary" when at school but only recently decided to read it. In all books I have read, there are few characters who would top the inimitable Adrian Mole. A fantastic read, so if you're feeling blue, need a pick me up or you just enjoy a good hoot - then look no further than this. I may be 15 years behind most in discovering this book, but it was worth the wait. Very well written, 28 Jul 2006
I really enjoyed the first diary of Adrian Mole. It was interesting, well-written, funny and kept my attention throughout the book.
The diaries of Adrian Mole are about a boy called Adrian Mole (not surprisingly!). He writes in his diary every day about love, parents, family, Bert (the old man he goes to visit), the Dog (the Dog never has a name, he is always refered to as The Dog) and many other things.
A wonderful character, 30 Dec 2007
Sue Townsend's inimitable character, Adrian Mole, again provided me with much amusement. This is his diary circa 1982, 1983. It's wonderful to see the early nineteen eighties through the angst ridden eyes of the neglected tortured soul that is the eponymous Adrian. Okay so, he is not in actuality "a tortured soul", but Sue Townsend's brilliant portrayal of Adrian Mole's overreactions, mixed in with his literary intellect, innocence, inexplicable recesses in knowledge, and accidental humour make for another fantastic read. I simply love how unique and original the Adrian Mole diaries are. I have given it a four rather than a five because I thought the first diary was slightly better. It is still a fantastic read and I would certainly recommend it. In the Days Before Blogging..., 27 Feb 2007
It's 1982 : Margaret Thatcher is Prime-Minister and Britain is at war with Argentina over a couple of sheep-infested islands in the South Atlantic. Meanwhile, the second instalment of the Mole Diaries is being written by a spotty, fifteen year old intellectual from Leicester.
Adrian proves to be a slightly different character in this book - I suppose he's actually grown up a little. He still has a pretentious streak, he continues to be a touch insensitive at times, he doesn't always see the blindingly obvious and he still (mistakenly) sees himself as an intellectual. However, sometimes, he gets the point all too well and delivers a well-penned (not to mention a well-deserved) kick in the arse. "The Growing Pains of Adrian Mole" covers a traumatic period for Adrian : his O-Levels and CSEs are looming while the significant fallout from his parents affairs have to be dealt with. He's still in love with Pandora, though the path of true love has a few tumbles in store for our spotty Lothario. (He's very keen to see a bit more loving, though he'd happily settle for a glimpse of nipple. Pandora, on the other hand, isn't in quite such a rush). The young couple still help Bert Baxter (a war veteran in his eighties) and Queenie (Bert's recently acquired second wife). Despite Bert's hobbies - drinking, smoking and communism - Bert appears to be one of the closest friends Adrian has. Adrian still has the problem of Barry Kent, the school bully : however, some very surprising progress is made over the course of the year.
Starting in April 1982 and finishing in May 1983, some of the big news stories at the time are touched on - the arrival of breakfast television in the UK, the kidnapping of Shergar and the Falklands War, Overall, it does prove to be a very funny book - though there are a couple of sad moments and a few serious points made. Depressingly, some of the points Adrian makes are just as relevant today as they were over twenty years ago. Listening to Radio Four at one point, Adrian notes that the government has decided to spend a billion pounds on war equipment. He then mentions that one of his school's science laboratories is being closed down because it can't afford to employ a new teacher. (Blair is throwing money at the Iraq War having conveniently forgotten all about "education, education, education"). Then Adrian's Irish neighbour, Mr O'Leary, returns to Ireland to vote in the Irish General Election. On his way back to Leicester, however, Mr O'Leary is detained at the East Midlands Airport on being suspicion of being a terrorist. (Admittedly, today the focus has shifted a different group). Later, when a General Election is called in the UK, one of the candidates mentioned is Duncan McIntosh. A member of the "Send `Em Back Where They Came From Party", Mr McIntosh advocates compulsory repatriation of people with black, brown and yellow skin, the Irish, the Welsh, the Scottish and all those with Norman blood. (With all the recent hysteria about immigrants, Mr McIntosh's party would probably have a good shout at government). Well worth reading, and highly recommended. You thought it was good when you were a teenager!, 09 Aug 2005
I have to say that the naivity and self-importance and obstinant belief in his being an 'intellectual' are largely wasted when you read it as a young teenager. You think that his posturing and snobby behaviours class him as such... don't be annoyed, its part of the magic of the book, and when you read the book some years later you realise, with hilarity, and sometimes embarassment how young and naive both you and dearest Adrian were . Read and devour his books whilst young, see his pains and embarassments as he tries to come to terms with his existence in a Midlands cul-de-sac when he dreams of being a literary genius as you grow in age with him.... then put the first two books away until you're at least 20, open them up again and enjoy them with new eyes. I'm sure by the time you hit 30 they would've taken on another character!! BEST BOOK EVER, 25 Feb 2005
i love this book, at times i thought i was reading about my own life. i am 15 as well and went throught some of the same things. great book for age 13 and up. hope you enjoy troubled teenagers, 07 Feb 2005
The growing pains of Adrian Mole is an ecxellent diary of a troubled teenager. Family problems, girlfriend problems, friendship problems, hes got it all. This book can be used as a guide for troubled teenagers or my favourite use an excellent read. 5 Star definetely. The musings of a twentysomething Mole , 14 Oct 2008
I am re-reading Sue Townsend's Adrian Mole novels prior to the next book being released in the near future and they have stood the test of time. This one, charting Adrian's life during his early 20s, deals with him working as a civil servant in Oxford to be near his former love, Dr Pandora Braithwaite, who's now a respected academic. As usual, Townsend's biting social satire comes through every page and some bits made me laugh out loud. Throughout the story, Adrian remains as naïve as ever and even relationships with two very different women fail to fulfil him. As for his burgeoning writing career, well, that's still very much in the pipeline as his seminal work `Lo! The Flat Hills of my homeland' fails to impress the literary world. I didn't like this as much as the others, 06 Sep 2006
I didn't find this book as interesting or as funny as the others. It was still really good, though! I like the fact that the characters stay the same throughout the books- they stay the same and are still very much included in the books.
This is one of the many diaries of Adrian Mole. In his diary, he writes about work, life in Oxford, Pandora, his relationship with the newsagent worker, Bianca and his married phsycologist, Leonora, with whom he feels he is in love with.
I don't think that you can not like Adrian Mole. Adrian Mole, 'The Wilderness years'., 28 Dec 2003
Adrian Mole, 'The Wilderness Years', is Sue Townsends sixth book in this series, and yet again it falls into the comical, hilarious and colloquial category. Once again, Adrian (aged 23 years) has achieved comedian status as has enthrawled us with his extraordinary and unbelievable antics. In my opinion, Adrian Mole has at last reached physical maturity, but again he cannot help roaming the pages like an untamed adolescent. Without a doubt, this book is definately the best in the series, with more comedy and entertainment than ever before. I can guarantee that after reading the first ten pages, you will not be able to put the back on the shelf. If you don't believe me, buy it and you'll see.
i think this is the best book in the world, 19 Apr 2001
im 11 years old and i started reading this book the other day so far i think its the best story i've ever read. i enjoy reading very much so when i saw this i thought arr a book i've heard so much about and decided to buy it.since then i havent been able to put it down! i will soon be getting the other ones such as the cappuccino years and so on.amazon is a great place to buy these books as theyre set at cheap prices.i will probably be buying them off of here once i've finished this one.
The same old Adrian Mole is back and he's grown up, 04 Feb 2001
this is a very clever book which lacks abit in the April section but a very book in all, a must read for followers and for part timers. Adrian is still obsessed with Pandora but has found Leonora his pshyologist and Bianca the newsagent.
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Product Description
Adrian Mole is balding, he's bitter and he's back, this time aged 30¼. Working at the Hoi Polloy restaurant, Soho, where a typical menu includes: Heinz Tomato Soup,
(with white bread floaters) Grey Lamb Chops
Boiled Cabbage avec Dan Quayle Potatoes
Dark Brown onion gravy Spotted Dick à la Clinton
Bird's Eye Custard Cheddar Cheese, Cream Crackers
Nescafé
After Eight Mint he is spotted by a cable TV producer and ends up starring in a celebrity chef show celebrating offal. Though he may be older he is certainly no wiser, still passing his time by dreaming of Pandora (now a shining star in Tony Blair's New Government) after his marriage to a Nigerian beauty ends in tatters. But underneath the layers of experience and sophistication, fans of the Mole family will find the same dysfunctional mess that made Adrian's Secret Diary an instant bestseller--his young son is being brought up by his mother in Ashby-de-la- Zouch, his 16-year-old sister leaves home to live with her multiply pierced boyfriend and his father is bed- bound with manic depression. Adrian still makes constant lists of juvenile neuroses and concentrates on his penis activity to an unhealthy extent (it is when it reaches 0/10 he realises something has to be done). Townsend's trademark acerbic wit is still much in evidence; Zippo kissed my mother's hand and complimented her on the shirt she was wearing. 'Is it Vivienne Westwood?' he murmered.
'No', she muttered back. 'It's BhS'.
'You clever thing', he crooned. it is only the frames of reference that have changed. Occasionally verging on the corny ("I arrived at the Brent Cross shopping centre car-park, to find that my car had been towed away five days ago and was in a police compound somewhere in Purley. A £25 cab ride took me to the Purley gates …") true Mole fanatics will forgive Townsend her occasional excesses for the numerous laugh-out-loud moments that punctuate Adrian's existence as he blunders on towards middle age. Accessible, amusing and appealing, The Cappuccino Years see an Adrian who has survived the Growing Pains; thought better of True Confessions; is out of the Wilderness Years and is facing the only really important question that remains: Is Viagra cheating? --Lucie Naylor
Customer Reviews
Big Disappointment, 10 Nov 2008
I am a huge fan of Sue Townsend's Adrian Mole books and needless to say I was waiting in great anticipation to see which woes would befall poor Adrian in this latest book. I was so disappointed with the entire book, there was no set story line, no humerous family hijinks, none of what makes me love Adrian Mole. In fact at the end of the book I felt a dislike towards his character. I've always had a slight issue with Sue Townsend's continuity in the series of Mole books but this one took the cake-in 'The Cappucino Years' set in 97-98 Adrian's sons are 3 and 13, in this book, set in 99-01 they start off as being 7 and 13, so William has miraculously aged 4 years in 2 and Glenn has not aged at all! Small details which I have picked up and know from re-reading previous Mole books hundreds of times like Glenns birthday being in April and now in this book being in February just irritated me. That may sound a little precious but when Ivan Braithwaite-who is mentioned to have died in 2000 in the book 'Adrian Mole & The Weapons of Mass Destruction' (set in 02-03) while still being married to Pauline Mole at the end of this book- he is still alive and kicking and back living with his ex-wife Tania. There are repeated storylines such as Adrians dad, George, being hospitalised with back injuries leading to him suffering a super bug which is straight out of 'Weapons of Mass Destruction' and whole lines are re-used from earlier books. I may have a pedantic view on this but I think as a long time fan and reader of Townsend's books that she could at least keep track of even the simplest facts. I wouldn't recommend this book to others who have read all the previous books as I believe many would feel the same way as I do. Always, reliably, hilarious and contemporary, 08 Nov 2008
I have now read every version and permutation of Adrian Mole's diaries, from when I was a teengaer to the present day as a mother in my thirties. I never fail to laugh out loud at this Middle England pedant, whose obsession with detail, shameless snobbery and outrageous intellectual pretension makes him strangely likeable.
Townsend has started making surreal cameos into Mole's life, but rather than interfere with your suspension of disbelief, it enhances the joke. Adrian's surroundings pose a succint picture of modern Britain and this book is no different. We find him raising his two sons, William and Glen
with admirable steadfastnes: one of the many qualities that prevents the reader ever actually dislking Mole. For all his pretensions and self importance, the reader cannot help but root for him, especially contrasted with the unbearably smug Pandora and his fickle parents.
The poetry and prose that Mole subjects the reader to, is hilarious by its very banality and self importance. Townsend is firing arrows at the literaray establishment left, right and centre, always with tongue firmly in cheek.
Once more, an unsuitable ladyfriend plagues Adrian's disastrous love life to comic effect, but his capers are nothing compared with the chopping and changing of his and Pandora's parents. Pandora herself is a ruthlessly ambitious MP and again, Townsend merrily lampoons Blair's Britain. Its hilarous how much Adrian annoys her and serve her right too!
I thoroughly enjoyed this from cover to cover. It takes real skill to make a franchise fresh and entertaining every time, but I could never get bored of Adrian Mole. Five stars every time! Long Waited, 07 Nov 2008
I had several books to read, some by my favourite authors, but everything
drops when Sue Townsend has a new one out. To me it's like being
given a big cream cake to eat by myself.
I luxuriate in 1 book, l get into my best position for reading and just
enjoy.
If your looking for something new in Sue Townsend's writing, then this
book isn't for you. If you like all the Adrian Mole books before, you will
love this one as well. There is no real subject matter, it's just how
life treats Adrian, and how he can never see the other side of things.
He is still as naive as he was 25 years ago, and Pandora is still an
MP.
I have an idea for Sue for a new book, Let one of Adrian's boys start
writing a diary.
Brilliant. Thank you Sue. A fantastic book about a teenager!!!!, 01 May 2007
This book is great. It's about a teenager who is obbsesed with the spots on this chin and claims to be an interlectual. This diary is about the ups and downs of a worried teenagers life.
I reccomend this book to people from 12-1012!
The 20th Century's Samuel Pepys, 20 Nov 2006
It's 1981 : Margaret Thatcher is Prime Minister, Prince Charles is preparing for his wedding to Lady Diana Spencer and nobody in England has ever heard of the Falkland Islands. Meanwhile Adrian Mole, a spotty kid from Leicester, has a new diary.
Adrian is an only child and is only a few months short of his fourteenth birthday. Somewhat pretentious, occasionally insensitive and just a little dim, he has somehow managed to convince himself that he is an intellectual. (He claims to have read "War and Peace" within 24 hours - he thought it was `quite good' - while "Animal Farm" has led him to consider being a vet when he grows up). Almost inevitably, he's started writing poetry, which he occasionally sends to the BBC. Mr and Mrs Lucas, who live next door, cause something of a scandal when they become the first couple on his street to get divorced. (In fact, he's nearly delighted with the fallout, until his own family get caught up in it). These aren't his only problems, of course - he suffers from acne, his O-Levels and CSEs are looming and he's routinely menaced by Barry Kent at school. As a member of the Good Samaritans, a charity group he's joined, he misses his maths lessons on a Monday. The downside is that he has to help out an eighty-one year old war-veteran called Bert Baxter. Bert's drinking and smoking are bad enough, but the fact that Bert reads the Morning Star has led Adrian to suspect the pensioner is actually a communist. However, it's not all doom and gloom : Adrian is in love with Pandora Braithwaite .
This is a very funny book - it's always been one of my brother's favourites and I'm sure he wouldn't be alone in viewing it a modern classic. It is written as a diary, rather than a novel - each day is presented as a journal entry, with some days being given more detail than others. While it may be a little more accessible to those who grew up in the UK and Ireland in the 1980s, it's still very funny and is hugely recommended. Excellent Read For Both The Young And Old, 15 Sep 2006
I read this book when I was a similar age to Adrian and found it a very addictive book, being able to identify with Adrian and his perception of the world. I just couldn't understand the adults in his life and the crazy things they did.
Now I'm older and have read the book again it's even funnier because you can see how well Sue Townsend has written this 13 (and three quarters) year old's diary but now understand a lot more of the humour and what's going on. It's almost as if it's a completely different book and I enjoyed reading it again after all these years.
That's not to say that you can only enjoy it if you read it first when you're in your teens. It's an extra bonus to read it that way but it's still an excellent book for adults to read as well.
The book has dated now, being set in 1984. Teenagers may have a problem if they aren't aware of certain events from that time (Mrs Thatcher, the Royal Wedding etc) and also might be thrown slightly by how cheap everything seems to me (a Mars Bar for 15 pence?) but those occurances are few and far between and the book is still very easily enjoyed.
If you have never read this book then, young or old, I heartily recommend it to you. If it is a book from your childhood and it has been many years since you last read it then you should definitely pick up a copy again or dig out your old one. Re-read it and laugh once more at the hilarious world of Adrian Mole. Wickedly funny, 02 Aug 2006
This book was an absolute joy, definately the funniest book I have read for years. I heard people talk about this "diary" when at school but only recently decided to read it. In all books I have read, there are few characters who would top the inimitable Adrian Mole. A fantastic read, so if you're feeling blue, need a pick me up or you just enjoy a good hoot - then look no further than this. I may be 15 years behind most in discovering this book, but it was worth the wait. Very well written, 28 Jul 2006
I really enjoyed the first diary of Adrian Mole. It was interesting, well-written, funny and kept my attention throughout the book.
The diaries of Adrian Mole are about a boy called Adrian Mole (not surprisingly!). He writes in his diary every day about love, parents, family, Bert (the old man he goes to visit), the Dog (the Dog never has a name, he is always refered to as The Dog) and many other things.
A wonderful character, 30 Dec 2007
Sue Townsend's inimitable character, Adrian Mole, again provided me with much amusement. This is his diary circa 1982, 1983. It's wonderful to see the early nineteen eighties through the angst ridden eyes of the neglected tortured soul that is the eponymous Adrian. Okay so, he is not in actuality "a tortured soul", but Sue Townsend's brilliant portrayal of Adrian Mole's overreactions, mixed in with his literary intellect, innocence, inexplicable recesses in knowledge, and accidental humour make for another fantastic read. I simply love how unique and original the Adrian Mole diaries are. I have given it a four rather than a five because I thought the first diary was slightly better. It is still a fantastic read and I would certainly recommend it. In the Days Before Blogging..., 27 Feb 2007
It's 1982 : Margaret Thatcher is Prime-Minister and Britain is at war with Argentina over a couple of sheep-infested islands in the South Atlantic. Meanwhile, the second instalment of the Mole Diaries is being written by a spotty, fifteen year old intellectual from Leicester.
Adrian proves to be a slightly different character in this book - I suppose he's actually grown up a little. He still has a pretentious streak, he continues to be a touch insensitive at times, he doesn't always see the blindingly obvious and he still (mistakenly) sees himself as an intellectual. However, sometimes, he gets the point all too well and delivers a well-penned (not to mention a well-deserved) kick in the arse. "The Growing Pains of Adrian Mole" covers a traumatic period for Adrian : his O-Levels and CSEs are looming while the significant fallout from his parents affairs have to be dealt with. He's still in love with Pandora, though the path of true love has a few tumbles in store for our spotty Lothario. (He's very keen to see a bit more loving, though he'd happily settle for a glimpse of nipple. Pandora, on the other hand, isn't in quite such a rush). The young couple still help Bert Baxter (a war veteran in his eighties) and Queenie (Bert's recently acquired second wife). Despite Bert's hobbies - drinking, smoking and communism - Bert appears to be one of the closest friends Adrian has. Adrian still has the problem of Barry Kent, the school bully : however, some very surprising progress is made over the course of the year.
Starting in April 1982 and finishing in May 1983, some of the big news stories at the time are touched on - the arrival of breakfast television in the UK, the kidnapping of Shergar and the Falklands War, Overall, it does prove to be a very funny book - though there are a couple of sad moments and a few serious points made. Depressingly, some of the points Adrian makes are just as relevant today as they were over twenty years ago. Listening to Radio Four at one point, Adrian notes that the government has decided to spend a billion pounds on war equipment. He then mentions that one of his school's science laboratories is being closed down because it can't afford to employ a new teacher. (Blair is throwing money at the Iraq War having conveniently forgotten all about "education, education, education"). Then Adrian's Irish neighbour, Mr O'Leary, returns to Ireland to vote in the Irish General Election. On his way back to Leicester, however, Mr O'Leary is detained at the East Midlands Airport on being suspicion of being a terrorist. (Admittedly, today the focus has shifted a different group). Later, when a General Election is called in the UK, one of the candidates mentioned is Duncan McIntosh. A member of the "Send `Em Back Where They Came From Party", Mr McIntosh advocates compulsory repatriation of people with black, brown and yellow skin, the Irish, the Welsh, the Scottish and all those with Norman blood. (With all the recent hysteria about immigrants, Mr McIntosh's party would probably have a good shout at government). Well worth reading, and highly recommended. You thought it was good when you were a teenager!, 09 Aug 2005
I have to say that the naivity and self-importance and obstinant belief in his being an 'intellectual' are largely wasted when you read it as a young teenager. You think that his posturing and snobby behaviours class him as such... don't be annoyed, its part of the magic of the book, and when you read the book some years later you realise, with hilarity, and sometimes embarassment how young and naive both you and dearest Adrian were . Read and devour his books whilst young, see his pains and embarassments as he tries to come to terms with his existence in a Midlands cul-de-sac when he dreams of being a literary genius as you grow in age with him.... then put the first two books away until you're at least 20, open them up again and enjoy them with new eyes. I'm sure by the time you hit 30 they would've taken on another character!! BEST BOOK EVER, 25 Feb 2005
i love this book, at times i thought i was reading about my own life. i am 15 as well and went throught some of the same things. great book for age 13 and up. hope you enjoy troubled teenagers, 07 Feb 2005
The growing pains of Adrian Mole is an ecxellent diary of a troubled teenager. Family problems, girlfriend problems, friendship problems, hes got it all. This book can be used as a guide for troubled teenagers or my favourite use an excellent read. 5 Star definetely. The musings of a twentysomething Mole , 14 Oct 2008
I am re-reading Sue Townsend's Adrian Mole novels prior to the next book being released in the near future and they have stood the test of time. This one, charting Adrian's life during his early 20s, deals with him working as a civil servant in Oxford to be near his former love, Dr Pandora Braithwaite, who's now a respected academic. As usual, Townsend's biting social satire comes through every page and some bits made me laugh out loud. Throughout the story, Adrian remains as naïve as ever and even relationships with two very different women fail to fulfil him. As for his burgeoning writing career, well, that's still very much in the pipeline as his seminal work `Lo! The Flat Hills of my homeland' fails to impress the literary world. I didn't like this as much as the others, 06 Sep 2006
I didn't find this book as interesting or as funny as the others. It was still really good, though! I like the fact that the characters stay the same throughout the books- they stay the same and are still very much included in the books.
This is one of the many diaries of Adrian Mole. In his diary, he writes about work, life in Oxford, Pandora, his relationship with the newsagent worker, Bianca and his married phsycologist, Leonora, with whom he feels he is in love with.
I don't think that you can not like Adrian Mole. Adrian Mole, 'The Wilderness years'., 28 Dec 2003
Adrian Mole, 'The Wilderness Years', is Sue Townsends sixth book in this series, and yet again it falls into the comical, hilarious and colloquial category. Once again, Adrian (aged 23 years) has achieved comedian status as has enthrawled us with his extraordinary and unbelievable antics. In my opinion, Adrian Mole has at last reached physical maturity, but again he cannot help roaming the pages like an untamed adolescent. Without a doubt, this book is definately the best in the series, with more comedy and entertainment than ever before. I can guarantee that after reading the first ten pages, you will not be able to put the back on the shelf. If you don't believe me, buy it and you'll see.
i think this is the best book in the world, 19 Apr 2001
im 11 years old and i started reading this book the other day so far i think its the best story i've ever read. i enjoy reading very much so when i saw this i thought arr a book i've heard so much about and decided to buy it.since then i havent been able to put it down! i will soon be getting the other ones such as the cappuccino years and so on.amazon is a great place to buy these books as theyre set at cheap prices.i will probably be buying them off of here once i've finished this one.
The same old Adrian Mole is back and he's grown up, 04 Feb 2001
this is a very clever book which lacks abit in the April section but a very book in all, a must read for followers and for part timers. Adrian is still obsessed with Pandora but has found Leonora his pshyologist and Bianca the newsagent.
Nah... less funny, 30 Sep 2008
I guess it's ok, but I only laughed out loud max two times - and this is supposed to be the longest book yet. Not nearly as funny as The Wilderness Years and The Small Amphibians.
Begining of a New Mole Era, 18 Jan 2006
Another excellent Mole book and a worthy addition to the canon of British satire. Mole remains a character who is easily identifiable with, even if he inhabits a pastiche of contemporary Britain which is often gruesome, but always amusing. A major difference to earlier works is that the poignancy which always ran through his journals is much more of an integral part of the narratives. And, although this book seems to have dated surprisingly quickly (especially when compared to the Adrian's earlier efforts) it is still exceptionally funny. Highly Recommended.
This is a great book., 28 Dec 2005
If you are a fan of the Adrian Mole books you have to read this it is about adrian mole aged 30. A great book and well worth the reed, Also a very funny book :)
The Cappuccino Years, 06 Feb 2005
This is a very good book. If you have red the past Adrian Mole books you have to read this it is about adrian mole aged 30 1/4. Can he be a good father? Why whont the bbc produce 'The White Van', his serial killer comedy. this is a must reed it is funny and hilerias
Adrian Mole - Modern History, 11 Feb 2004
I would agree that, at first, the style of this book deviates from Adrian's first diaries in that the entries are really long-winded (and less funny), but perhaps that's deliberate (and that Townsend is showing Adrian trying to be more of a "writer", which he is renownedly crap at). It also coincides with a time in Adrian's life when he seems to have more time to write lengthy nonsense. Later in the diary, when he's more busy with "real life" tasks, his entries become shorter and more personally reflective (and therefore, more funny). What I think is brilliant about these books is remembering the era I grew up in. Adrian, as always, chronicles current events in his diary: such as Princess Diana's death and the new Blair government coming to power, and makes statements about these events, thus recording history in a way that portrays, more than most, how the "ordinary person" viewed those times. It then becomes more like a discourse of modern history - which I think is great. It's like having a (modern) 'memories museum' in book format. Fantastic! The Sunday Telegraph says it best - Townsend 'has held a mirror up to the nation and made us happy to laugh at what we see in it'.
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Customer Reviews
Big Disappointment, 10 Nov 2008
I am a huge fan of Sue Townsend's Adrian Mole books and needless to say I was waiting in great anticipation to see which woes would befall poor Adrian in this latest book. I was so disappointed with the entire book, there was no set story line, no humerous family hijinks, none of what makes me love Adrian Mole. In fact at the end of the book I felt a dislike towards his character. I've always had a slight issue with Sue Townsend's continuity in the series of Mole books but this one took the cake-in 'The Cappucino Years' set in 97-98 Adrian's sons are 3 and 13, in this book, set in 99-01 they start off as being 7 and 13, so William has miraculously aged 4 years in 2 and Glenn has not aged at all! Small details which I have picked up and know from re-reading previous Mole books hundreds of times like Glenns birthday being in April and now in this book being in February just irritated me. That may sound a little precious but when Ivan Braithwaite-who is mentioned to have died in 2000 in the book 'Adrian Mole & The Weapons of Mass Destruction' (set in 02-03) while still being married to Pauline Mole at the end of this book- he is still alive and kicking and back living with his ex-wife Tania. There are repeated storylines such as Adrians dad, George, being hospitalised with back injuries leading to him suffering a super bug which is straight out of 'Weapons of Mass Destruction' and whole lines are re-used from earlier books. I may have a pedantic view on this but I think as a long time fan and reader of Townsend's books that she could at least keep track of even the simplest facts. I wouldn't recommend this book to others who have read all the previous books as I believe many would feel the same way as I do. Always, reliably, hilarious and contemporary, 08 Nov 2008
I have now read every version and permutation of Adrian Mole's diaries, from when I was a teengaer to the present day as a mother in my thirties. I never fail to laugh out loud at this Middle England pedant, whose obsession with detail, shameless snobbery and outrageous intellectual pretension makes him strangely likeable.
Townsend has started making surreal cameos into Mole's life, but rather than interfere with your suspension of disbelief, it enhances the joke. Adrian's surroundings pose a succint picture of modern Britain and this book is no different. We find him raising his two sons, William and Glen
with admirable steadfastnes: one of the many qualities that prevents the reader ever actually dislking Mole. For all his pretensions and self importance, the reader cannot help but root for him, especially contrasted with the unbearably smug Pandora and his fickle parents.
The poetry and prose that Mole subjects the reader to, is hilarious by its very banality and self importance. Townsend is firing arrows at the literaray establishment left, right and centre, always with tongue firmly in cheek.
Once more, an unsuitable ladyfriend plagues Adrian's disastrous love life to comic effect, but his capers are nothing compared with the chopping and changing of his and Pandora's parents. Pandora herself is a ruthlessly ambitious MP and again, Townsend merrily lampoons Blair's Britain. Its hilarous how much Adrian annoys her and serve her right too!
I thoroughly enjoyed this from cover to cover. It takes real skill to make a franchise fresh and entertaining every time, but I could never get bored of Adrian Mole. Five stars every time! Long Waited, 07 Nov 2008
I had several books to read, some by my favourite authors, but everything
drops when Sue Townsend has a new one out. To me it's like being
given a big cream cake to eat by myself.
I luxuriate in 1 book, l get into my best position for reading and just
enjoy.
If your looking for something new in Sue Townsend's writing, then this
book isn't for you. If you like all the Adrian Mole books before, you will
love this one as well. There is no real subject matter, it's just how
life treats Adrian, and how he can never see the other side of things.
He is still as naive as he was 25 years ago, and Pandora is still an
MP.
I have an idea for Sue for a new book, Let one of Adrian's boys start
writing a diary.
Brilliant. Thank you Sue. A fantastic book about a teenager!!!!, 01 May 2007
This book is great. It's about a teenager who is obbsesed with the spots on this chin and claims to be an interlectual. This diary is about the ups and downs of a worried teenagers life.
I reccomend this book to people from 12-1012!
The 20th Century's Samuel Pepys, 20 Nov 2006
It's 1981 : Margaret Thatcher is Prime Minister, Prince Charles is preparing for his wedding to Lady Diana Spencer and nobody in England has ever heard of the Falkland Islands. Meanwhile Adrian Mole, a spotty kid from Leicester, has a new diary.
Adrian is an only child and is only a few months short of his fourteenth birthday. Somewhat pretentious, occasionally insensitive and just a little dim, he has somehow managed to convince himself that he is an intellectual. (He claims to have read "War and Peace" within 24 hours - he thought it was `quite good' - while "Animal Farm" has led him to consider being a vet when he grows up). Almost inevitably, he's started writing poetry, which he occasionally sends to the BBC. Mr and Mrs Lucas, who live next door, cause something of a scandal when they become the first couple on his street to get divorced. (In fact, he's nearly delighted with the fallout, until his own family get caught up in it). These aren't his only problems, of course - he suffers from acne, his O-Levels and CSEs are looming and he's routinely menaced by Barry Kent at school. As a member of the Good Samaritans, a charity group he's joined, he misses his maths lessons on a Monday. The downside is that he has to help out an eighty-one year old war-veteran called Bert Baxter. Bert's drinking and smoking are bad enough, but the fact that Bert reads the Morning Star has led Adrian to suspect the pensioner is actually a communist. However, it's not all doom and gloom : Adrian is in love with Pandora Braithwaite .
This is a very funny book - it's always been one of my brother's favourites and I'm sure he wouldn't be alone in viewing it a modern classic. It is written as a diary, rather than a novel - each day is presented as a journal entry, with some days being given more detail than others. While it may be a little more accessible to those who grew up in the UK and Ireland in the 1980s, it's still very funny and is hugely recommended. Excellent Read For Both The Young And Old, 15 Sep 2006
I read this book when I was a similar age to Adrian and found it a very addictive book, being able to identify with Adrian and his perception of the world. I just couldn't understand the adults in his life and the crazy things they did.
Now I'm older and have read the book again it's even funnier because you can see how well Sue Townsend has written this 13 (and three quarters) year old's diary but now understand a lot more of the humour and what's going on. It's almost as if it's a completely different book and I enjoyed reading it again after all these years.
That's not to say that you can only enjoy it if you read it first when you're in your teens. It's an extra bonus to read it that way but it's still an excellent book for adults to read as well.
The book has dated now, being set in 1984. Teenagers may have a problem if they aren't aware of certain events from that time (Mrs Thatcher, the Royal Wedding etc) and also might be thrown slightly by how cheap everything seems to me (a Mars Bar for 15 pence?) but those occurances are few and far between and the book is still very easily enjoyed.
If you have never read this book then, young or old, I heartily recommend it to you. If it is a book from your childhood and it has been many years since you last read it then you should definitely pick up a copy again or dig out your old one. Re-read it and laugh once more at the hilarious world of Adrian Mole. Wickedly funny, 02 Aug 2006
This book was an absolute joy, definately the funniest book I have read for years. I heard people talk about this "diary" when at school but only recently decided to read it. In all books I have read, there are few characters who would top the inimitable Adrian Mole. A fantastic read, so if you're feeling blue, need a pick me up or you just enjoy a good hoot - then look no further than this. I may be 15 years behind most in discovering this book, but it was worth the wait. Very well written, 28 Jul 2006
I really enjoyed the first diary of Adrian Mole. It was interesting, well-written, funny and kept my attention throughout the book.
The diaries of Adrian Mole are about a boy called Adrian Mole (not surprisingly!). He writes in his diary every day about love, parents, family, Bert (the old man he goes to visit), the Dog (the Dog never has a name, he is always refered to as The Dog) and many other things.
A wonderful character, 30 Dec 2007
Sue Townsend's inimitable character, Adrian Mole, again provided me with much amusement. This is his diary circa 1982, 1983. It's wonderful to see the early nineteen eighties through the angst ridden eyes of the neglected tortured soul that is the eponymous Adrian. Okay so, he is not in actuality "a tortured soul", but Sue Townsend's brilliant portrayal of Adrian Mole's overreactions, mixed in with his literary intellect, innocence, inexplicable recesses in knowledge, and accidental humour make for another fantastic read. I simply love how unique and original the Adrian Mole diaries are. I have given it a four rather than a five because I thought the first diary was slightly better. It is still a fantastic read and I would certainly recommend it. In the Days Before Blogging..., 27 Feb 2007
It's 1982 : Margaret Thatcher is Prime-Minister and Britain is at war with Argentina over a couple of sheep-infested islands in the South Atlantic. Meanwhile, the second instalment of the Mole Diaries is being written by a spotty, fifteen year old intellectual from Leicester.
Adrian proves to be a slightly different character in this book - I suppose he's actually grown up a little. He still has a pretentious streak, he continues to be a touch insensitive at times, he doesn't always see the blindingly obvious and he still (mistakenly) sees himself as an intellectual. However, sometimes, he gets the point all too well and delivers a well-penned (not to mention a well-deserved) kick in the arse. "The Growing Pains of Adrian Mole" covers a traumatic period for Adrian : his O-Levels and CSEs are looming while the significant fallout from his parents affairs have to be dealt with. He's still in love with Pandora, though the path of true love has a few tumbles in store for our spotty Lothario. (He's very keen to see a bit more loving, though he'd happily settle for a glimpse of nipple. Pandora, on the other hand, isn't in quite such a rush). The young couple still help Bert Baxter (a war veteran in his eighties) and Queenie (Bert's recently acquired second wife). Despite Bert's hobbies - drinking, smoking and communism - Bert appears to be one of the closest friends Adrian has. Adrian still has the problem of Barry Kent, the school bully : however, some very surprising progress is made over the course of the year.
Starting in April 1982 and finishing in May 1983, some of the big news stories at the time are touched on - the arrival of breakfast television in the UK, the kidnapping of Shergar and the Falklands War, Overall, it does prove to be a very funny book - though there are a couple of sad moments and a few serious points made. Depressingly, some of the points Adrian makes are just as relevant today as they were over twenty years ago. Listening to Radio Four at one point, Adrian notes that the government has decided to spend a billion pounds on war equipment. He then mentions that one of his school's science laboratories is being closed down because it can't afford to employ a new teacher. (Blair is throwing money at the Iraq War having conveniently forgotten all about "education, education, education"). Then Adrian's Irish neighbour, Mr O'Leary, returns to Ireland to vote in the Irish General Election. On his way back to Leicester, however, Mr O'Leary is detained at the East Midlands Airport on being suspicion of being a terrorist. (Admittedly, today the focus has shifted a different group). Later, when a General Election is called in the UK, one of the candidates mentioned is Duncan McIntosh. A member of the "Send `Em Back Where They Came From Party", Mr McIntosh advocates compulsory repatriation of people with black, brown and yellow skin, the Irish, the Welsh, the Scottish and all those with Norman blood. (With all the recent hysteria about immigrants, Mr McIntosh's party would probably have a good shout at government). Well worth reading, and highly recommended. You thought it was good when you were a teenager!, 09 Aug 2005
I have to say that the naivity and self-importance and obstinant belief in his being an 'intellectual' are largely wasted when you read it as a young teenager. You think that his posturing and snobby behaviours class him as such... don't be annoyed, its part of the magic of the book, and when you read the book some years later you realise, with hilarity, and sometimes embarassment how young and naive both you and dearest Adrian were . Read and devour his books whilst young, see his pains and embarassments as he tries to come to terms with his existence in a Midlands cul-de-sac when he dreams of being a literary genius as you grow in age with him.... then put the first two books away until you're at least 20, open them up again and enjoy them with new eyes. I'm sure by the time you hit 30 they would've taken on another character!! BEST BOOK EVER, 25 Feb 2005
i love this book, at times i thought i was reading about my own life. i am 15 as well and went throught some of the same things. great book for age 13 and up. hope you enjoy troubled teenagers, 07 Feb 2005
The growing pains of Adrian Mole is an ecxellent diary of a troubled teenager. Family problems, girlfriend problems, friendship problems, hes got it all. This book can be used as a guide for troubled teenagers or my favourite use an excellent read. 5 Star definetely. The musings of a twentysomething Mole , 14 Oct 2008
I am re-reading Sue Townsend's Adrian Mole novels prior to the next book being released in the near future and they have stood the test of time. This one, charting Adrian's life during his early 20s, deals with him working as a civil servant in Oxford to be near his former love, Dr Pandora Braithwaite, who's now a respected academic. As usual, Townsend's biting social satire comes through every page and some bits made me laugh out loud. Throughout the story, Adrian remains as naïve as ever and even relationships with two very different women fail to fulfil him. As for his burgeoning writing career, well, that's still very much in the pipeline as his seminal work `Lo! The Flat Hills of my homeland' fails to impress the literary world. I didn't like this as much as the others, 06 Sep 2006
I didn't find this book as interesting or as funny as the others. It was still really good, though! I like the fact that the characters stay the same throughout the books- they stay the same and are still very much included in the books.
This is one of the many diaries of Adrian Mole. In his diary, he writes about work, life in Oxford, Pandora, his relationship with the newsagent worker, Bianca and his married phsycologist, Leonora, with whom he feels he is in love with.
I don't think that you can not like Adrian Mole. Adrian Mole, 'The Wilderness years'., 28 Dec 2003
Adrian Mole, 'The Wilderness Years', is Sue Townsends sixth book in this series, and yet again it falls into the comical, hilarious and colloquial category. Once again, Adrian (aged 23 years) has achieved comedian status as has enthrawled us with his extraordinary and unbelievable antics. In my opinion, Adrian Mole has at last reached physical maturity, but again he cannot help roaming the pages like an untamed adolescent. Without a doubt, this book is definately the best in the series, with more comedy and entertainment than ever before. I can guarantee that after reading the first ten pages, you will not be able to put the back on the shelf. If you don't believe me, buy it and you'll see.
i think this is the best book in the world, 19 Apr 2001
im 11 years old and i started reading this book the other day so far i think its the best story i've ever read. i enjoy reading very much so when i saw this i thought arr a book i've heard so much about and decided to buy it.since then i havent been able to put it down! i will soon be getting the other ones such as the cappuccino years and so on.amazon is a great place to buy these books as theyre set at cheap prices.i will probably be buying them off of here once i've finished this one.
The same old Adrian Mole is back and he's grown up, 04 Feb 2001
this is a very clever book which lacks abit in the April section but a very book in all, a must read for followers and for part timers. Adrian is still obsessed with Pandora but has found Leonora his pshyologist and Bianca the newsagent.
Nah... less funny, 30 Sep 2008
I guess it's ok, but I only laughed out loud max two times - and this is supposed to be the longest book yet. Not nearly as funny as The Wilderness Years and The Small Amphibians.
Begining of a New Mole Era, 18 Jan 2006
Another excellent Mole book and a worthy addition to the canon of British satire. Mole remains a character who is easily identifiable with, even if he inhabits a pastiche of contemporary Britain which is often gruesome, but always amusing. A major difference to earlier works is that the poignancy which always ran through his journals is much more of an integral part of the narratives. And, although this book seems to have dated surprisingly quickly (especially when compared to the Adrian's earlier efforts) it is still exceptionally funny. Highly Recommended.
This is a great book., 28 Dec 2005
If you are a fan of the Adrian Mole books you have to read this it is about adrian mole aged 30. A great book and well worth the reed, Also a very funny book :)
The Cappuccino Years, 06 Feb 2005
This is a very good book. If you have red the past Adrian Mole books you have to read this it is about adrian mole aged 30 1/4. Can he be a good father? Why whont the bbc produce 'The White Van', his serial killer comedy. this is a must reed it is funny and hilerias
Adrian Mole - Modern History, 11 Feb 2004
I would agree that, at first, the style of this book deviates from Adrian's first diaries in that the entries are really long-winded (and less funny), but perhaps that's deliberate (and that Townsend is showing Adrian trying to be more of a "writer", which he is renownedly crap at). It also coincides with a time in Adrian's life when he seems to have more time to write lengthy nonsense. Later in the diary, when he's more busy with "real life" tasks, his entries become shorter and more personally reflective (and therefore, more funny). What I think is brilliant about these books is remembering the era I grew up in. Adrian, as always, chronicles current events in his diary: such as Princess Diana's death and the new Blair government coming to power, and makes statements about these events, thus recording history in a way that portrays, more than most, how the "ordinary person" viewed those times. It then becomes more like a discourse of modern history - which I think is great. It's like having a (modern) 'memories museum' in book format. Fantastic! The Sunday Telegraph says it best - Townsend 'has held a mirror up to the nation and made us happy to laugh at what we see in it'.
Adequate But a Tired Novel, 06 Sep 2008
I am an avid fan of the adventures of Mole and especially loved the the great "Capuccino Years" but this is a bit dissapointing:- Mole is at his most feeble and the constant crammng in of contemporary themes such as Iraq, MRSA, credit culture and environmentalism seems more than a little forced.
Mole desite his lower-middle class small-mindedness has often evoked affection from readers rather than disgust but Adrian has gone from a pretentious adolescent to now a selfish middle-aged serial monogamist. I lost sympathy with the midlander half-way through the novel. Now he is a hybrid of David Brent and Alan Partridge.
In that regard the main character, and the book as a a whole, is a victim of Townsend's friendly fire.
The best Adrian Mole, 05 Jun 2008
This is one of the few books (along with the Hitchiker's Guide to the Galaxy) that made me laugh out loud all the while I was reading it. I have read all the Adrian Moles but this one is the best.
the early twenty-first century viewed by one Mr Mole, 19 Mar 2008
The eponymous diarist over some decades is here writing as a man in his mid-thirties, a failed family man who increasingly lives beyond his means. H is opinionated and naive but catches the zeitgeist of early 21st century Britain. Easy to read because beautifully written. It may never be considered a major work, but offers a compassionate, affectionate but nonetheless highly critical look at today's England.
The funniest book I own - but disappointing ending, 18 Mar 2008
Honestly, I have probably never laughed so much reading a book. Isn't that a terrible cliche? But true. Sue Townsend seems to have a direct tap to my funny bone. I'm so glad she continued to write Adrian Mole - the early books get funnier each time I read them now that I know more about the history and politics of the early 80s, but it's such a treat to have her give the 2000s the Adrian Mole treatment. Credit card debt, doing up old wrecks in the hope of making a fortune, old factories turned into overhyped apartment developments, Iraq... and her usual social themes.
Sue Townsend is the only satirist I can think of who has such fondness for her characters and their pathetic little world. Adrian himself is a prime example - how, how does she make such an idiot so very sympathetic? - and his boss Mr. Carlton-Hayes is nothing less than adorable - but when she wants to stick the knife in to a character, she really can; witness one Michael Flowers. Flowers is a sort of satire of the typically pompous fifty/sixty-something man devoid of all self-awareness, her in the guise of a New Age madrigal-singing despot. His daughter Marigold Flowers, too, is hilariously awful, once she's sucked Adrian in with her fragile wrists. Anyone who finds it hard to say 'no' will laugh with total recognition of how it is being dragged around by somebody they have nothing but ridicule for yet find strangley intimidating. I love the lines Pauline Mole puts into her son's mouth: "Ever since I was a little boy, I have preferred to live in the world of fiction. I have found the real world to be a harsh place. I avoid confrontation and am easily manipulated by people who have a strong sense of themselves". I love Pauline Mole, full stop, and she's on form in this book! The hapless, loyal Glenn and poor old Sharon are also as likeable and hilarious as ever - in the hands of another writer, Sharon would be all that is wrong with England and 'chav culture', whereas in Townsend's sympathetic hands, she springs off the page as a sort of ill-educated, well-meaning victim of circumstance as well as a very amusingly observed Miss Piggy type.
Also hilarious are the Leicestershire and Rutland Creative Writing Group scenes - Ken Blunt's hideously vulgar anti-Americana and Gladys' cat poems. I love when Sue Townsend puts poetry in her character's hands - I remember Barry Kent's privet hedge poem well!
My only criticism is that unlike any of the previous books, a serious happy ending and new start is given to Adrian, as Townsend rounds off the saga. No more yearning for Pandora. The Iraq part also gets more serious and ranty, which disturbs the comic tone; I'm not heartless, but I didn't think it fit with the tone of the rest of the book. I guess Adrian is finally allowed to grow up, and it's not in the reader's interest for him to do so.
Still, I feel silly even criticising Sue Townsend because I consider her an absolute master and satirical genius at what she does, and seemingly a very nice person too who writes with such heart. I firmly believe that if more people read Adrian Mole, the world would be a much better place!
So brilliant: a noble swan of naivety on a muddy pond, 29 Sep 2007
Is it the last volume of the Adrian Mole saga? Of course not. I doubt it very much. There is no end to a good recipe, a ratatouille or a beef and kidney pie. But we'll see. This volume is extremely interesting. For our Adrian Mole is still Adrian Mole. He is naïve and he is sending to us a very simple-minded vision of the world that is absolutely disarming - a must with the title we know - in naivety and vanity. This vain naivety or naïve vanity is his trademark and it is marvelously refreshing. It could probably not break a man's arm, but it can break, even smash, a man's despair. And this here volume is still a perfect example, at the age of 35, nearly middle-aged, of this entertaining village philosopher from Leicester. The book is also fascinating because we are in 2002-2004 and the central problem is the war on Iraq and Blair's support, till the day when he acknowledges there were no WMDs. The political question is systematically shown through the opinions of various people. Adrian is pro-Blair and he supports his own son when he is sent to Iraq, though he is frightened by the prospect of his son's death for and with no cause, and actually the son's best friend is killed by shrapnel. Pandora is against the war and she resigns from Blair's government. And between the two we find all kinds of shades. The dramatic dimension of the problem is strong because of the son's position in the armed forces. At the same time the book criticizes all kinds pf shortcomings of Blair's policy and of capitalistic greed. Adrian and his father are confronted to the National Health Service, and Adrian is suddenly thrown into bankruptcy by greedy banks and various store- or credit-card providers as well as by his vain desire to live over his means. The book is also fascinating because of the love life or rather non-love and/versus love lives of Adrian. He finds himself trapped by a false pregnancy and ends with a real third child born in love. Finally the book is fascinating because of the numerous vignettes it provides on various characters and situations: the independent bookseller, the local would-be or wanna-be writer, the protection of Her Majesty's swans, the Koran, Chinese restaurants, baby-boomers, vegetarian or bio-friendly people, etc... There you feel a high level of irony, humor, sarcasm, and that is so English, so brilliantly English.
Dr Jacques COULARDEAU, University Paris Dauphine, University Paris 1 Pantheon Sorbonne & University Versailles Saint Quentin en Yvelines
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Customer Reviews
Big Disappointment, 10 Nov 2008
I am a huge fan of Sue Townsend's Adrian Mole books and needless to say I was waiting in great anticipation to see which woes would befall poor Adrian in this latest book. I was so disappointed with the entire book, there was no set story line, no humerous family hijinks, none of what makes me love Adrian Mole. In fact at the end of the book I felt a dislike towards his character. I've always had a slight issue with Sue Townsend's continuity in the series of Mole books but this one took the cake-in 'The Cappucino Years' se | | |