Customer Reviews

Fun Run and Other Oxymorons: Singular Reflections of an Englishman Abroad

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is a largely funny collection of short, independent anecdotes, fictions and would-be essays by columnist Joe Bennett. Funny as they are, however, Fun Run is more than a humor book.

There's serious work behind Bennett's crafted silliness and brilliant satire. His columns methodically strip bare every institution, social trend, and public figure that carry the scent of pretension - himself included.

Fun Run looks at cappuccinos, government speak, home repair, vitamin therapy, Russian fishermen and American foreign aggression. In the process, Bennett plays with a range of styles and tones, at turns didactic, absurd, ironic and thoughtful. His range is so broad that readers who like predictability might disapprove. I didn't.

I enjoyed how Fun Run changed rhythm, tone and thematic scope with each column. I usually put books by columnists down after 15 minutes because they become predictable and repetitive. I stayed with Fun Run for a good evening - it captivated me with its variety.

Fun Run is a fun read. It entertains and enlightens, and Bennett has a tremendous command of language.

Joe Bennett's humour has a way of making you smile even when you don't want to! Bennett's witty and original way of explaining everyday occurences has an effect that makes you think how funny (and strange) life really is. Get this book!