Decline and Fall.

You can probably see by the state of this book that it's been read many many times; mostly by me. The book is dated 1937, so it was pre-owned even before it came my way. I first read it when I was still at school, probably around 1963.

Decline and Fall, by Evelyn Waugh, is amongst my top 10 favourite books. I cannot tell you how many times I've read it. It describes a world I know extremely well, both as pupil and teacher; although my experiences are nothing like the ones in the book.

For me it's a 'laughing out loud' book. It is very funny from beginning to end.

The main character, Paul Pennyfeather, was unfairly sent-down from Oxford, where he had been 'reading for the church', and takes the only job available to such disgraced gentlefolk; teaching in a boys private school in N Wales; probably near Trelawnyd (it does mention being close to Llandudno). His adventures begin!

I think this may be the final time I read my crumbling edition. It's really is about to fall to bits. I must remember to buy a new edition.

Waugh is a good story-teller, and his humour is second to none. If you're looking for a fun read, then this might well fit the bill. Enjoy.