The Clicking of Cuthbert by P. G. Wodehouse

The first of two books that he wrote on golfing themes, The Clicking of Cuthbert by PG Wodehouse sparkles with typical Wodehousian wit, humor and general goofiness! An avid golfer himself, Wodehouse published the ten stories in this volume in 1922. In 1924, an American edition titled Golf Without Tears was published. Since then it has enjoyed undimmed popularity among both Wodehouse fans and golfing enthusiasts. Nine of the stories contained in this book are narrated by the Oldest Member, a character who has become a cult figure among Wodehouse fans. He is a nameless character who is perennially seated on the terrace of a nameless golf club somewhere in England. An Ancient Mariner-like figure, the Oldest Member is ever eager to engage others in conversation and relate a pithy story from his boundless experience. Every story is a gem and peppered with memorably funny characters. What is so delightful about The Clicking of Cuthbert is that you don’t really need to be a golfer to appreciate these stories. Of course they are liberally sprinkled with technical terms, but for the uninitiated reader, this is a great opportunity to get familiar with this very popular sport. Terms and jargon may have altered a little since the book was published, but nothing distracts from the humor and hilarity! Three of the stories have been adapted to film and many of them were published in different journals like the Saturday Evening Post, The Strand Magazine and Collier’s. Most of the stories concern sentimental dilemmas that the hero/heroine are embroiled in. The tales are couched in some of the most entertaining and enjoyable turns of phrase ever to be found in the English language and you’ll often find yourself bursting out aloud into laughter as you read – and continuing to smile long after you’ve put the book down! Fun for the entire family!