by Temujin

I can't be certain, but I think I've now read every Adrian Mole book that Sue Townsend has written. For those who don't know, Mole is the main character and the books consist of his diary entries. As ever, Townsend has dealt with both smaller issues affecting everyday people (such as personal debt and the troubles of writing a rejection letter) through to the most important political lies told: WMD. There's somewhat more swearing than I recall with earlier books, but that could be my memory trying to persuade me Townsend is aiming the books at her slightly ageing readership. The book is as witty as any of its predecessors, and personally I think it may be the best yet. It combines sharp wit, hilarious humour and deft observation of British society throughout. Easy to read, I flew through the four hundred or so pages in a couple of days. Like Wild Swans (by Jung Chang) it was a very enjoyable book that virtually read itself. I recommend this to anyone, excepting the following:

• Health food fanatics
• Hypochondriacs
• Dolphins that have been violated
• Swans
• Tony Blair