When Grandmama Fell Off the Boat: The Best of Harry Graham Inventor of Ruthless Rhymes

by Harry Graham, Miles Kington (Introduction)

This anthology is a collection of rhymes by the Edwardian humourist, Harry Graham. The comic light verse is illustrated with period line drawings.

Genres: Poetry

160 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 1986

About the author

Jocelyn Henry Clive "Harry" Graham was an English writer known for his darkly humorous verse, journalism, and lyric writing for operettas and musical comedies. Initially serving as an officer in the Coldstream Guards, he later became a full-time writer. His Ruthless Rhymes, published under the pseudonym [link=Col. D. Streamer|24069698], remain his most famous work, showcasing his talent for grotesque humor and wordplay. He also wrote lyrics for successful stage productions, including The Maid of the Mountains and English adaptations of operettas like The Land of Smiles. His best-known lyrics include You Are My Heart’s Delight and Goodbye.

Reviews

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Clever and witty.

[Gerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author of 'Ruthless Rhymes' is presented here in a sort of 'best of'. And without doubt they are the best as they are the wittiest and most telling verses that he wrote.

The word ruthless fits most of them for, memorable as they are, they portray black humour all along the way. And they are brilliant.

Anyone who has let Harry Graham pass them by should address this book and have a try. You won't regret it!

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has to be one of my favorite books of poetry (it totally counts). I remember picking it off my mothers bookshelf when I was 8 or 9 and I haven't given it back since.

[Louise Leetch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just lots of very silly, sometimes macabre rhymes written in the 20's and 30's

[Steven Heywood · Rating 4 out of 5]

A childhood favourite