Norman Thelwell (1923–2004)

As every, Thelwell's eye for the ridiculous, playing with language, and summarising the many frustrations of a given hobby are on point. The book itself has dated both well and poorly. Gardening itself has only changed superficially, but some of the interactions between individuals was just a bit off.

This tongue in cheek cartoon guide covers all aspects of gardening, from how to make a hole in the frozen fish pond to how to get your mower out of the shed, and includes a calendar of essential work throughout the year.

To be honest, I bought a used hardcover first edition of Penelope as a Christmas present for my horse-loving, Thelwell fan best friend. I decided to read for myself first. Yes, I chuckled a lot. I think my favorite of these newspaper cartoon reprints was the one where Penelope's pony, Kipper, decided to lie down in the middle of the high street. Quick thinking there, Penelope.

The perfect gift for any sailor who has misinterpreted a distress signal, worn stilettos on board, abandoned ship, or experienced irreparable damage to their social status at the club. Norman Thelwell was a keen observer of the foibles of the British at work and play. He is best known for his small, round and hairy ponies and their small, equally round little girl owners.