The Diary of a Nobody
by George and Weedon Grossmith
The diary of the "Pooter" family proved to be a popular choice for AA bookclub members and led to a good discussion in the review.
The book stems from the late Victorian era, 1888, and superficially is a series of diary entries reflecting the misfortunes (and occasional reversal) of Charles Pooter, his wife Carrie and son Lupin.
Co-author (and brother) Weedon enabled line drawings of characters and scenarios which added greatly to the enjoyment for those fortunate to have a good printed copy.
Image: George (holding his hat) and Weedon Grossmith, image from Wikipedia.
The Grossmith brothers clearly had a great understanding of humour not only creating the Diary which lives on as a classic piece of literature, but going on to influence comic opera and publications such as Punch magazine.
With genteel and eccentric but also caring characters, hilarious cameos, and social blunders and apposite illustrations, The Diary made for an enjoyable read.
The social parallels and similarities between Victorian Society and our “modern” society were drawn out in the club discussion.
The book also underlined the value of the club as several members enjoyed the read and would not have read the book without it being a club choice.
Score on the door: 3.9 shiny stars. PC, 14th October 2018.
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