The Diary of a Nobody
George Grossmith (1847-1912)
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Genres
Summary
Grossmith’s comic novel unveils the daily chronicles of the pompous and clumsy middle-aged clerk Charles Pooter, who has just moved to the London suburb of Holloway with his wife Carrie. Nonetheless, the family’s fresh start is not quite what they had in mind. Set in the late Victorian era, the diary accurately documents the manners, customs, trends and experiences of the time. First appearing in Punch magazine through the years 1888-89, The Diary of a Nobody was first published in book form in 1892 and has entertained readers ever since. Written as diary entries, the novel records the daily mishaps and follows the humiliations of the Pooter family. Life in the Pooter household consists of busy interactions, endless renovations and mundane chores, giving the impression of an ordinary functioning family. However, it is this simplicity that ignites humor as the scenarios are played out. The social ladder is of key importance in the novel, as the Pooters high social aspirations are depicted through their humorous attempts to conceal their lower middle class status. Unsurprisingly, their attempts backfire and only make them look more ridiculous in the eyes of their acquaintances. Pooter’s obliviousness and pretentious behavior is often the core of his minor feuds and public acts of humiliation. Moreover, fuel is added to the fire when the reckless Lupin suddenly appears at his parent’s doorstep and merely sheds more light and embarrassment on the household. Throughout the satire, Pooter is nothing less than a magnet for trouble and must face the never ending cycle of social gatherings, home renovations and finding solutions to work and family differences. Victorian society, social class and self-importance are just some of the themes explored in these humorous, yet strikingly familiar everyday situations. The wits and creativity with which Grossmith cautiously illustrates Victorian society and its synthetic values throughout the novel, is what truly marks the novel as a work of genius. For it is the empty vessels that make the most sound.
Reviews
Julie
Um um um.... that was the strangest “book” I have ever listened to. The narrator did a wonderful job, but the book was literally just a diary. Sorry but I don’t recommend it unless you are really lonely. :0/
Timothy
I really like the story and the guy who is reading the story but I had to stop at chapter 4 because I was feeling stressed as it went along. There were some sarcastic parts in it that made me feel stressed. I am disappointed because I thought it might be a book I love.
San
So enjoyed this story - hated it to end
"b" to the "e" to the lla
the book is kind of boring!!!!!
Stef
I didn't know what to expect when I decided to open this book. I was VERY surprised! I thought this book was a hoot! The reader was spot on!
Loved it
This is a very funny book, especially if you like dry humor. The reader was really excellent and perfect for the part. ThIs was very professional sounding, which was quite a pleasant surprise because it is not often the case on free audiobooks. Wish he would record more!
Delightfull and amusing read, love the satirical portrayel of the characters.
Mike
The reader was excellent but I was bored.
Michael D
Well i was not sure what the book was going to be worth it. However with this reader with the voice he has makes this book come to life and very well worth the time. I enjoyed the book and i think the reader made this possible. I am glad you have found this reader. Thanks for the Entertainment.
constance spilhaus
Subtle, not silly, reader was excellent-just the right low-keyed tone.
Kemba
This is a very hilarious book I recommend this book.
Kate
Excellent and light hearted story with a great reader! Thanks!!!
Christin S.
This is a light-hearted and very fun read. The reader was perfect.
Delighted
What a total delight. The story is fascinating, charming, and full of character while remaining understated and suave. Martin Clifton is a masterful narrator, and I notice his stories have been selected as favorites. Listening to this book was a wonderful experience.
Lilly bean
Delivered just right. Martin Clifton to me felt like Mr. Pooter him self.
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