Customer Reviews

Keeping Up Appearances : Hyacinth Bucket's Book of Etiquette for the Socially Less Fortunate

5 star:		(15)
4 star:		(6)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Following in a somewhat British tradition of having book tie-ins which are not *about* the show so much as a *continuation* of the show, _Book of Etiquette_ is written as though the character of Hyacinth Bucket were sharing a diary with her audience. This makes for some howlingly funny reading, but may disappoint those looking for behind-the-scenes information about the show.

Also, as is the case with the _Yes, Minister_ and Dame Edna tie-in books, a lot of the material has already surfaced in the series. Now, since this material is incredibly funny, it's a joy to have it in the written word. Still, some might feel cheated that the book is more old material than new.

It's also important to point out, I think, that the work is fairly graphic-intensive. There are *lots* of pictures and decorative borders here. These elements obviously cut into the space available for text.

On balance, then, I would very much recommend that you get the paperback version, even if it's a gift purchase. While very funny, the book doesn't warrant the hardbound price.

The Brits have a wonderful knack for taking the scripts (or bits thereof), incorporating them into a book ostensibly written by the character herself, and coming up with something fresh and every bit as hilarious as the series itself. Such is certainly the case with Hyacinth Bucket's Book of Etiquette.

With this book, Hyacinth responds to questions of etiquette from the "socially less fortunate." Her responses and anecdotes (which often contain snippets of dialogue taken from the scripts) are well-seasoned with her own opinions and thoughts; the result is just hilarious. Hyacinth has even included an index for the reader, which contains gems such as "index finger, correct use of" and "husbands, uses of."

For the person who just can't get enough of that Bucket woman, this lovely 191-page book, which contains an abundance of black & white photos (scenes from the series) is a must-have. A book to be read and re-read, it is every bit as enjoyable as the series upon which it is based. Highly recommended!

Allow me to inform you that this book is an essential part to any upper class library. It is with great pleasure to read about Hyacinth's life's triumphant moments and her "hoi polloi" moments too. Just the other day, I was informing our Vicar, Father Andy, at one of our numerous candle light suppers, "... This 'Book of Etiquette' is the reason for the wonderful success of our candle light suppers." This book also makes a great gift to those who may be lacking in some of the elements of the aristocracy. Oh, I must pop off now, my pearl-white slim-line telephone in ringing right now and that must be someone very important. Ta ta.

This tastefully designed Book of Etiquette reveals the invaluable advice of Keeping Up Appearances Hyacinth Bucket who has waged "eternal vigilance against encroaching tides of indelicacy" to make her suburban district "one of the most sought-after postal codes in the land." The book is written in the voice of Hyacinth herself as she answers letters from her myriad of admirers. In this book, the aspiring hostess will learn how to organize a candlelight supper, from designing the proper, embossed, mantelpiece-worthy invitations and planning appropriate seating arrangements to maintaining high standards in the quality of one's bathroom linen. Other topics concern ways to deal with tradesmen, the proper use of the telephone, how to maintain a healthy body and mind, one's role in organized religion and charity work, what books and art to appreciate for a proper cultural education, and the importance of wearing the correct hat. The book is filled with scores of photos from the BBC comedy as well as many references to the many tricky situations Hyacinth encounters-and conquers, of course-in the show. I am removing a star from the score because much of the book is made up of recaps of episodes that most KUA fans have seen many times; however, fans will enjoy the extras tidbits offered here, such as Hyacinth comparing her sisters' personalities to their flowery names, and what attracted her to Richard. There is even a photo of Sheridan (well, sort of).

This book is very well-written and beautifully-designed and not the rush job a lot of these television related books tend to be. There is even an index of topics in the back. Clive Swift (Richard) even remarked on how impressed he was in the book during the Peppermill interview with Patricia Routledge (available as an extra on the DVD "Living the Hyacinth Life"). A must for any fan and remember "keeping up appearances is not the most important thing in life, it is the only thing."

This book is a must-have for any fan of the series "Keeping Up Appearances." The format: Hyacinth Bucket (pronounced "Bouquet", of course) has written this book to help we, the readers, improve our social skills and graces, hopefully avoiding the complications her friends and family have caused her! She cites examples from the first few years of the series of what to do and what not to do (basically, don't do what Onslow does and you're on the right track already)! It is full of photos from the show, and even includes a family tree. A fun item for the Hyacinth fan!

This is one of the best BritCom books I've read in a long time. We delve a little deeper into Hyacinth's personal life.

Hyacinth strikes again, only this time you have a little more insight to her thought process. The book is great. It takes the form of Hyacinth dispensing her advice through examples from the show. I can recall the examples, and you seem to gain a greater understanding of the inner workings of her mind. I will not have you reading lower middle class literature, when this is available.

One section title sums up Hyacinth Bucket to a T: "Putting People in their Places." The book is advice to those who aim to be as perfect as Hyacinth. Learn how to deal with brother-in-laws in dresses, sisters with cracked coffee mugs, and how to handle a shirtless Onslow!

This is a must-buy if you're a Hyacinth Bucktet fan. It's full of the same humor that's in the television series, full of advice and a bit over-winded: just like Hyacinth.Nicely written with lots of B&W photos from the show.

One of the more "civilized" programs on PBS is the"Keeping Up Appearances" TV series.If you appreciate and enjoy "British humor" you will love this book as a companion. Please enjoy it as much as I have. Bob Ingalls