Books matching: infused with wit and humor
12 result(s)
- #1
Save:In 'The Devil You Know' by K.J. Parker, readers are taken on a Faustian journey where the greatest philosopher, Saloninus, makes a deal with the devil to exchange his soul for twenty more years of life and power. The novella explores the dynamics between Saloninus, a master trickster, and the devil, who is puzzled by the philosopher's seemingly straightforward deal. The story is told from both the devil's and Saloninus' perspectives, offering a glimpse into a world of wit, ambition, and moral complexity.
The writing style of 'The Devil You Know' is described as clever and entertaining, with a focus on deception, manipulation, and the intricate dance between the philosopher and the demon. Through a narrative that switches between the two main characters, readers are drawn into a world where power dynamics, moral dilemmas, and unexpected twists keep the story engaging and thought-provoking.
I DON’T DO EVIL when I’m not on duty, just as prostitutes tend not to have sex on their days off. My ideal off-shift day starts with a hot bath and the scent of black tea, followed by an hour on my ba...
(Also, see 6 recommendations for the series Saloninus ) - #2
Save:'Toujours Provence' by Peter Mayle is a delightful collection of musings and narratives that transport readers to the picturesque south of France. Through vivid descriptions of local customs, food, truffle hunting, and dog shows, Mayle captures the essence of life in Provence. Readers are immersed in the author's love for the people, lifestyle, and the charm of the French countryside. The book is a blend of enchanting vignettes, lyrical descriptions, and humorous anecdotes that offer a glimpse into the author's experience as an expat Brit living in France.
- #3
Save:The Brightest Star in the Sky by Marian Keyes is a novel that revolves around the lives of the residents of 66 Star Street in Dublin. The story is narrated by a spirit that observes the tenants living in the apartment house, providing glimpses into their lives and interactions. The book delves into deeper themes beyond the initial lightheartedness, with characters that are described as deeply flawed and realistic, adding substance to the typical Chick Lit genre. While some readers found the supernatural aspect intriguing, others felt that the ending was a bit unnatural and contrived.
June the first, a bright summer’s evening, a Monday. I’ve been flying over the streets and houses of Dublin and now, finally, I’m here. I enter through the roof. Via a skylight I slide into a living r... - #4
Save:'A Short History of Drunkenness' by Mark Forsyth is a humorous and informative exploration of how alcohol has been used and regarded throughout history and across different cultures. The book covers topics such as the origins of alcohol consumption, the role of alcohol in religious ceremonies, the impact of alcohol on societies, and the history of popular alcoholic beverages like beer, wine, and gin. The writing style is witty, irreverent, and conversational, making the historical information engaging and entertaining for readers. Forsyth's humorous tone and amusing anecdotes provide a unique perspective on the relationship between humans and alcohol over time.
Before we were human, we were drinkers. Alcohol occurs naturally and always has. When life began four-billion-and-something years ago there were single-cell microbes happily swimming around in the pri... - #5
Save:'Lord Peter Views the Body' by Dorothy L. Sayers is a collection of short crime stories featuring the aristocratic amateur sleuth Lord Peter Wimsey. The stories are set between the 1st and 2nd World Wars and showcase Wimsey's keen intellect and deductive powers as he solves a variety of unusual mysteries, from missing wills to bizarre crimes. Each story presents a different puzzle for Wimsey to unravel, providing a mix of clever mysteries and witty writing that keeps readers engaged throughout.
The writing style of Dorothy L. Sayers in this collection is described as delightful, clever, and lighthearted, with a touch of humor and horror. The stories feature well-developed characters, intricate plots, and unexpected twists, making them a compelling read for fans of Golden Age Detective Fiction. Sayers' ability to craft clever puzzles and create a vivid portrayal of Britain in the 1920s and 30s adds depth to the narratives, making 'Lord Peter Views the Body' a captivating and enjoyable book for mystery lovers.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Lord Peter Wimsey ) 'Being Wrong: Adventures in the Margin of Error' by Kathryn Schulz is a thought-provoking exploration of the concept of error and the importance of embracing being wrong. Schulz delves into various disciplines such as criminology, philosophy, psychology, and neuropsychology to illustrate how error allows us to learn and grow, emphasizing the value of error rather than abhorring it. Through engaging anecdotes and philosophical insights, Schulz challenges the notion that being wrong is always negative, highlighting how error can lead to discovery, innovation, and personal growth.
Schulz's writing style is described as charming, witty, and engaging, making complex subjects accessible to readers. She weaves together personal stories, philosophical musings, and historical examples to create a compelling narrative that encourages readers to reconsider their relationship with error. The book explores the human tendency to deny or repress error, the emotional aspects of making mistakes, and the potential benefits of accepting and even embracing our capacity for error, offering a fresh perspective on the role of being wrong in our lives.
Why is it so fun to be right? As pleasures go, it is, after all, a second-order one at best. Unlike many of life’s other delights—chocolate, surfing, kissing—it does not enjoy any mainline access to o...- #7
Save:Chimera by John Barth is a complex novel consisting of three interrelated novellas that draw inspiration from 1001 Arabian Nights and Greek mythology. The book delves into metafiction, where the story being told is intertwined with the creation of the story itself. John Barth's writing style combines humor, engaging characters derived from myths, and thought-provoking metafiction elements that challenge traditional storytelling conventions.
“At this point I interrupted my sister as usual to say, ‘You have a way with words, Scheherazade. This is the thousandth night I’ve sat at the foot of your bed while you and the King made love and you... - #8
Save:'Miniatures' by John Scalzi is a collection of very short stories, each under 2,000 words, showcasing Scalzi's signature humor and wit. The stories cover a variety of topics, from alien encounters and Pluto's perspective to humorous takes on everyday life scenarios. Scalzi's writing style is fast-paced, punchy, and to the point, often resembling news articles, memos, or interview transcripts. The stories entertain and amuse, offering a glimpse into human interactions with aliens or intelligent machinery in a lighthearted manner.
- #9
Save:'Where the Wild Ladies Are' by Aoko Matsuda is a collection of linked short stories that reimagines traditional Japanese folktales in a modern setting. The stories touch on themes of feminism, societal norms, and Japanese mythology, weaving together a narrative that explores the intersection of the supernatural and everyday life. Matsuda's writing style is described as witty, dark, and twisty, with a feminist flair that adds depth to the retellings of these ancient stories.
“Okay, that’s the right side done. I’ll start on the left now.” From just beside my ear, the beautician’s voice cut through the affirmations with which I was busy filling up every inch of my headspace... - #10
Save:In 'The Seven Dials Mystery' by Agatha Christie, readers are introduced to a different dynamic with young protagonists, Lady Eileen and Jimmy, trying to solve the murders of their friends while uncovering the mysteries of the Seven Dials group. The plot takes unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers engaged till the end. The book is described as a mix of thriller and comedy of manners, set in an English country house with elements of espionage and secret societies intertwined in the mystery.
The story follows Lady Eileen and her friends as they navigate through a murder investigation involving the Seven Dials secret society, espionage, and the discovery of secret formulas. The book is noted for its bantering tone of humor, reminiscent of Wodehouse, and the enjoyable romp through a 1920s English countryside setting. With misdirection, red herrings, and a surprising twist ending, 'The Seven Dials Mystery' provides readers with a fun and engaging read that showcases Agatha Christie's storytelling prowess.
That amiable youth, Jimmy Thesiger, came racing down the big staircase at Chimneys two steps at a time. So precipitate was his descent that he collided with Tredwell, the stately butler, just as the l...
(Also, see 82 recommendations for the series Superintendent Battle )
