Comics / Humor / Squib

In ‘Tartarin of Tarascon, ‘ Alphonse Daudet masterfully weaves a satirical narrative that critiques the romanticism of heroism and adventure in the 19th-century French provincial life. Daudet’s style …

In ‘Sixes and Sevens, ‘ O. Henry showcases his signature style marked by witty dialogue, intricate plot twists, and a profound understanding of human nature. This collection of short stories captures …

Exactly eight hundred years ago, Magna Carta established the right not to be thrown in the Tower of London for being slightly irritating, which is the closest we've ever got to a written constit …

Silas and Ethel Woodlock retire to spend their twilight years by the sea, only to find themselves traumatised by herring gulls. London journalist Stephen Osmer writes a provocative essay about two pe …

In ‘Condensed Novels, ‘ Bret Harte presents a masterful collection of satirical stories that parody the conventions of contemporary literature, particularly the sprawling novels of his time. His uniq …

Only in Ireland – the funniest, wildest and most absurd stories from Ireland’s local newspapers For anyone with a sense of humour and a taste for the absurd, here are the best of the unique, hilariou …

In ‘The Parenticide Club, ‘ Ambrose Bierce weaves a darkly satirical narrative that delves into the moral complexities of familial obligation and the extremes of human behavior. Through a series of i …

Originally printed as a guide to street slang for men of quality, The Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue is a gem! The avowed purpose of the dictionary was to give men ‘of fashion’ an insight into the i …

We might not like to admit to it, but everyone -even the gentlest of souls -derives a secret guilty satisfaction from the misfortune of others. Tim Lihoreau has made it his business to uncover the my …

In ‘Dodo Wonders, ‘ E. F. Benson masterfully immerses readers in a satirical yet affectionate portrait of early 20th-century English society. The narrative follows the endearing and eccentric Dodo, w …