Stories of Comedy   By: Rossiter Johnson (1840-1931)

Stories of Comedy by Rossiter Johnson is a collection of comedic tales that will surely bring a smile to any reader's face. This anthology explores various aspects of humor, presenting a wide range of hilarious narratives that will leave you in stitches.

One of the highlights of this book is the diverse selection of stories. Johnson includes classic comedic tales from renowned authors such as Mark Twain, O. Henry, and Edgar Allan Poe. These stories are a testament to the timelessness of comedy, as they still manage to evoke laughter even in the modern era.

The author's writing style is engaging and witty, effectively capturing the essence of each story. Johnson's ability to set up humorous situations and deliver punchlines with precision is commendable. He effortlessly navigates between irony, satire, and wordplay, ensuring that readers will be thoroughly entertained from start to finish.

A notable aspect of this collection is the variety of comedic themes presented. From clever misunderstandings to absurd situations, the stories explore different forms of comedy. This diversity keeps the reading experience fresh and prevents the humor from becoming mundane or predictable.

Another strength of Stories of Comedy is its ability to evoke genuine laughter. The stories are filled with comical characters, witty dialogue, and hilarious plot twists that will make you burst into laughter. Johnson's skillful storytelling ensures that the humor is never forced, resulting in a genuinely enjoyable reading experience.

While the book primarily focuses on humor, it also manages to touch on deeper human emotions. Some stories blend comedy with heartfelt moments, providing a unique balance that adds an extra layer of depth to the overall reading experience. This ability to mix humor with sentimentality adds another dimension to the stories, making them more relatable and resonant.

However, there are a few minor drawbacks to consider. Some stories in the collection may feel slightly dated, as the book was originally published in the late 19th century. Additionally, the writing style may be more formal compared to modern comedic works, which might not appeal to all readers.

In conclusion, Stories of Comedy by Rossiter Johnson is a delightful anthology that showcases the timeless art of humor. From witty one-liners to clever plot twists, this collection offers a diverse range of comedic tales that will leave you chuckling long after you've finished reading. Whether you're a fan of classic humor or simply looking for a good laugh, this book is a must-read.

First Page:

Barny O'Reirdon was a fisherman of Kinsale, and a heartier fellow never hauled a net nor cast a line into deep water: indeed Barny, independently of being a merry boy among his companions, a lover of good fun and good whiskey, was looked up to, rather, by his brother fishermen, as an intelligent fellow, and few boats brought more fish to market than Barny O'Reirdon's; his opinion on certain points in the craft was considered law, and in short, in his own little community, Barny was what is commonly called a leading man... Continue reading book >>