I’m 28 and getting back into reading after like, a 10 year hiatus. I recently got a kindle and am looking for suggestions! I grew up on Lemony Snicket (though I recently read Poison for Breakfast which I loved.) I just finished the Hitchhiker’s Guide series, and I’m currently working my way through the Bertie and Jeeves books by Wodehouse.
I thought I’d reach out to real book people- what else is out there? I like the cheekiness/cleverness of the narrators more than anything, the plot and characters are relatively secondary to me. I’m not necessarily asking for comedies, but something with that kind of tone. Sorry if I’m not explaining it well, again, it’s been a long time!
Thanks in advance
by Whytebrian
8 Comments
The next level of this kind of writing is Kurt Vonnegut.
My review of the book below fits exactly into your request for snark, lol.
I WILL INCLUDE THE AUTHOR AND TITLE OF THIS BOOK after I present to you the following scene I would have written if I had authored the book. Human Resources Director’s Evaluation of employee Marcellus, the octopus. “Well Marcellus, I’m not sure what to make of you. Your attitude is contagious. Since you’ve been here your attitude has negatively influenced every cat on the planet.” Marcellus, “Sir, you promised me that if I lived here I would be happy forever. I. Am. Not. Happy. Things need to change. I’m serious. I’ve been in touch with the felines here. I’ve had the opportunity to influence their thoughts and behaviors. I feel that I have done a great job; you should have allowed me to train the dogs here, but noooo, of course not. Look! Here is proof how I have influenced the felines- The cat’s diary versus the dog’s diary.
Cat: ‘It’s day number 1,852 of my captivity. My captors really love their newly upholstered couch-it’s my new scratching post.’ This diary is sardonic, disdainful of its humans’ love for them.
The dog’s diary- Wiggles tail, writes in its diary. It’s day number 1832 of living with these wonderful humans. I’m so happy that I’m with them! Oh! A newly upholstered couch! I’ll make sure that the cat doesn’t’t get near it. The dog simply melts with joy when his humans get home. The preceding is not part of the book.
Here is my review: “Remarkably Bright Creatures,” by Shelby Van Pelt. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ NOT A SPOILER. Adorable story narrated by the snarkiest, yet loving octopus named Marcellus. He has an understated, dry sense of humor. How he interacts with humans is predicated on this unparalleled ability to determine if a person is deserving of his kindness or maybe not. This is such a feel good read/listen. I listened to it on Libby. I think the audiobook version makes it so much better because of Marcellus’ snark.
I think you might enjoy Terry Prachett’s writing style, and considering all the different sub-series and standalones Discworld consists of you’re bound to find something you’ll enjoy!
cold comfort farm
a connecticut yankee in king arthur’s court
You mentioned Snicket and your love of snarky characters. This one should be heard not read
“The Eyes and the Impossible,” by Dave Eggers. This has become my favorite (audio)/book of ALL TIME! The audiobook is narrated by the main character; a talking dog. He and his friends, seagulls, racoons, bison, goats, horses, birds of other kinds, squirrels and other land, sea and air animals and fo wl live in a huge parcel of park/forest suttounded by a body of water, face everyday challenges. One day the dog concocts an almost impossible plan. Will he succeed? I’m not telling.
The main character in this book is a middle aged woman but there is no one snarkier than her.
“Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers,” by Jesse Q. Sutanto
Robert Rankin and Tom Holt might suit you. Terry Pratchett too but I imagine everyone will suggest him.
Another next level would be: George MacDonald Fraser’s Flashman series, check it out!