Dave Blicq

While some of the subplots added to the literary experience, there is a repetitious tendency to be significantly more descriptive than necessary. And while it was a worthwhile experience overall (reading both books) there were definitely stretches where the trivial detail outweighs the actual plot lines. Some parts were quite entertaining, while others seemed to be unnecessarily padded. I read extensively every day - I am not put off by larger novels; provided the value is there. I liked the concepts, but think had I been editing the two books that they would easily compress into a well-rounded single novel.

Three Men in a Boat blends humour, philosophy, wisdom, and perhaps a teary eye to the coming of mechanization and the end of more pastoral times. It is a masterpiece of dry, self-mocking, classic Victorian wit that will give you many a heart-felt laugh, and is remarkably timeless. "I know these idiots" is a silent refrain always lurking in the background. I can think of no other work that is so consistently funny and uplifting. A toast to Jerome!