Hi everyone! I hope you’re all well. Today is Friday, which means it’s time for another review, and today I’m reviewing Cunk on Everything: The Encyclopedia Philomena by Philomena Cunk.
Cunk on Everything: The Encyclopedia Philomena by Philomena Cunk was initially published in November 2018 by Two Roads and is 289 pages long.
The Plot
This hilarious book is an extension of the wonderfully satirical TV series ‘Cunk On…’ created by Charlie Brooker, which features a character played by the talented actress and comedian Diane Morgan.
Now, Philomena has a book!
Characters
Philomena Cunk embodies the ultimate in ditziness and naivety, making her the perfect vehicle for parodying the absurdities of mainstream ideas and assumptions. Throughout the book, just as in the series, Cunk shares some of the knowledge she has learned from the experts, presenting it to readers in her unique, inimitable way.
Writing Style
After reading Cunk on Everything: The Encyclopedia Philomena, one cannot help but feel a sense of awe at the comedic brilliance that is Philomena Cunk.
Cunk on Everything takes the form of an encyclopaedia, covering various topics including history, science, language, politics, and culture, all brilliantly dissected by Philomena Cunk and her amusingly naive and utterly ridiculous take on the world is amplified in the written form, allowing the reader to savour every ridiculous statement she makes.
Initially, I was worried that the ‘Cunk On…’ TV series wouldn’t translate well into book form. I thought, there’s no way they’ll be able to get all that makes Philomena Cunk who she is and lay it down on paper. However, I needn’t have worried; Cunk’s unique voice and delivery, which is dry, witty, and often absurd, shine right on through the words. So much so that I could hear Cunk (aka Diane Morgan) speaking the words in my head as I read them.
The way she mixes historical facts with personal observation and nonsensical musings is nothing short of genius.
Despite the many jokes and chuckles that the book contains, however, there is a surprising amount of depth and insight to be found within its pages. Cunk may be a fictional character, but her observations about humanity are often spot-on, and she manages to expose many of the contradictions and inconsistencies that lie at the heart of our society.
Final Thoughts
Cunk on Everything: The Encyclopedia Philomena is a book you won’t want to put down; it’s hugely entertaining and highly laugh-out-loud funny. It is such an easy read.
It’s a book that will appeal to any fan of the ‘Cunk On…’ series or anyone with a sense of humour. I highly recommend it. You will laugh your socks off at its silliness and absurdity, and it’ll stay with you for a long time.
I am giving Cunk on Everything: The Encyclopedia Philomena a 9/10.
Are you a fan of Philomena Cunk or any of the ‘Cunk on…’ series? Have you read Cunk on Everything? Let me know what you think!
As ever, thank you for spending some time reading my review today. It really means the world.
until next time,
George
© 2023 GLT
Categories: Book Reviews, Reading
GEORGE L THOMAS 
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