reviews
Oct 10, 2007
Modbon
rated it: 
One of my favorite Thurber collections. The first half of this book (I have the 1937 ed.) dissects (with snarky glee) Depression-era self-help books. Oddly enough, self-help books haven't really changed all that much in 70-plus years. There are none so pompous as those who would tell others how to behave, and Thurber skewers them deliciously.
The second half of the book contains a collection of essays, with some short fiction and some commentary, and includes Thurber's memories of the More...
The second half of the book contains a collection of essays, with some short fiction and some commentary, and includes Thurber's memories of the More...
Nov 01, 2010
Rebeck
rated it: 
"Her smile, under her considerable mustache, was quick and savage and frightening, like a flash of lightning lighting up a ruined woods." Favorites are "The Breaking Up of the Winships" and the criticism of doing a "laughing imitation of a butler" to corral cocktail party guests into the dining room. Ahhhhh time to pick the next one up.
Dec 26, 2007
ben
rated it:
The first half of this book is Thurber attacking the 1930s self-help book industry, which is a pretty easy target. The short writings are great but where Thurber really shines is when he is recounting funny stories, of which there are several in this book. He had me in tears more than once.
Dec 24, 2011
Elizabeth
rated it:
It's not the best of Thurber's collections but it's got some classic moments in it. And it does contain probably my favourite essay, "The Admiral on the Wheel."
Jan 31, 2008
Rebecca
rated it:
James Thurber exposes absurdity lurking everywhere in his world. Written 70 years ago, these essays ring just as true and funny today.
Mar 01, 2008
Thom
rated it:
One of the first replies to the (then) growing market of 'self help' gurus. Funny.
Jan 29, 2012
Mar 11, 2011
Nov 04, 2010
Sep 15, 2010
Mar 10, 2011
Jun 13, 2010
