enjoyable, well researched and funny book. ( )

This is a strange book. At the bottom of each page is a short joke and the chapters are liberally sprinkled with quips and shaggy dog stories (see the book for an explanation as to whence that term was derived): at the same time, it is a well researched history of humour and a review of current ideas as to the value and scope of wit.
The only point at which I find myself at issue with the authors' generally well thought out argument is when they broach the subject of the boundaries of taste and humour. Jimmy Carr and Lucy Greeves who, otherwise cover the broad swathe of their topic with an admirable impartiality, seem to say that anything goes in humour; religion should be big enough to take a little chiding upon the chin - but, of course, racist jokes are unacceptable and we need to avoid cheap shots at a person's infirmities. These appear to be pretty arbitrary distinctions and i presume that we must assume that humour must not transgress the boundaries that I hold to be important, but your limits are fair game to be tested by my "wit". Comedians should tackle whatever subject they feel the need to assault, but at the same time, they must expect a backlash should they trample too greatly upon our beliefs ( )

One of the quotes on the back cover (from David Walliams) says "Like most people, I hate Jimmy Carr. But this book is actually ok." And this quote is a fair description of my thoughts on this book also. ( )

This book takes a look at the science behind jokes, stand-up and comedy, and is also full of jokes - at least one at the bottom of each page, many of which made me laugh out loud.

It takes the subject of joking pretty seriously - why do we laugh, what are jokes for, when are jokes unacceptable, etc etc. The intelligent and wide-ranging thread is full of interesting snippets and examples to take you through the sometimes deceptive world of comedy.

Fully recommended! ( )