The Walpole orange: A romance

The late Frank Muir was a consummate writer of humorous prose. He has long been linked with Denis Norden in a successful career in British broadcasting. This book fairly drips with englishness and is a delight to read and an even greater delight to listen to when read by the author in his slighty lispish manner. I bought the 'What a Mess' series of childrens books by this author well before it was picked up for televising and our children now borrow them in turn for their own families.

I wish Frank Muir had written more books like this. I found it a delight to read and I can only describe it as a warm and humorous story to sink into. The only fault I found with The Walpole Orange was that it ended, as all good things do. It delves into the crux of how the Lords and Old Boys of a gentlemens club really want to celebrate the clubs 250th anniversary. Plans keep falling flat and the club secratary is frantic that the whole thing will be leaked to the press. Secrecy is paramount! The Belly dancers aren't what they seem and there could be more to the alternative act than what has been promised. The characters in The Walpole Orange make the whole story come alive. If you enjoy good old british comedy then be prepared for a good laugh and a good read.