Henry Alford (2) (1962–)

I had no idea that this book would be so funny, although I suppose the title should have given me a clue. For example, these two lines: "We are, all of us, every day, adding to the Wikipedia entry for humanity. We are, all of us, eternally, inheriting and bequeathing the toilet seat" (27). With good humor and funny anecdotes, Alford argues that "contrary to popular opinion, manners are not a luxury good that's interesting only to those who can afford to think about them... to practice good manners is to confer upon others not just consideration but esteem" (32).… (mer)

This is one of the most hilarious books I have ever read bar none.

First, Alford provides some incredibly witty accounts of different "investigations" he conducts in New York City, such as hiring a clutter consultant, trying to get some fake heirlooms auctioned off at Sotheby's, trying to find a good bed and breakfast in Manhattan, hiring a nude housecleaning service, etc. In between each of these stories are some hilarious lists, such as "What if Frank Sinatra taught acting at UCLA" or "What if unemployed actors worked at banks instead of restaurants". The whole thing is great.

I found myself consistently laughing at some of the things Alford did in his investigations, such as gauging what happened when he asked the nude housecleaners to do things like bleach his tub or wash his windows from the outside. All in all, this is a very satisfying book for any fan of humor.… (mer)