Wirral Libraries Bookbuzz discussion

Three hypochondriac adventurers, and a dog, decide that a camping trip up the Thames would be a jolly wheeze. What could possibly go wrong?
A comical look at three very English gentlemen and their mishaps and adventures, written in 1889.

There isn't really a plot to this book, just a series of amusing occurrences that take place on a boat trip. It has been described as an ageless satire of the late Victorian "clerking classes". I didn't find it hilariously funny but mildly amusing, perhaps it is just my sense of humour.

Jerome does, however, have a beautiful poetic way of writing in his descriptive passages but then always rounds it with an unexpected wittiness. In some ways this rather made for a unsatisfactory read as I felt the two standing alone as two separate books would have been more appealing : a full on comedy and a well written travel log. Indeed Jerome did begin the book as a serious travel book and I think it shows.

There was merriment throughout the book of a slapstick nature, but there was also a poignant side to the book. As an example, the story behind the body in the river was a meaningful comment on the treatment of unmarried mothers.

Not bad read but not one that I would revisit. Three stars.

I remember starting this while at college studying dietetics though I never finished it. I remember its discussion of their hypochondriac tendencies making me smile. We were studying diabetes at the time and I think all of us would admit to convincing ourselves we were peeing more than normal and must have diabetes so I could really relate!