# Don't Stop the Carnival

By Herman Wouk

Profile: https://hahafiction.com/books/don-t-stop-the-carnival-c3fc4188/

Norman Paperman leaves his work as a New York press agent to buy a Caribbean hotel. Middle age seems a good time for a fresh start in the sun. The Gull Reef Club soon gives him more immediate matters to worry about.

## What makes it funny?

Norman’s tropical escape fills up with ants, plumbing failures, staffing trouble and an earthquake. A hotel requires attention even when its owner came to the island hoping to relax.

### The comedy at work

The jokes follow the practical cost of Norman’s reinvention. Every problem with the business makes his dream of carefree island living harder to maintain.

### Try this if…

Readers who enjoy hotel mishaps and disastrous business ventures may recognize the appeal of a holiday fantasy becoming a demanding job.

### Good to know

Marital temptation and serious events accompany the comedy. Kirkus found the dialogue mechanical and was unconvinced by the humor. The novel later inspired a Jimmy Buffett musical.

## What to expect

- Genre: Contemporary & literary
- On the shelf: Workplace comedy
- Kind of humor: Situational comedy
- Format: Novel

## A few distinguishing details

- A New York press agent buys a Caribbean hotel
- Island escape becomes a string of business emergencies

## Sources & further reading

- Review: [Kirkus review](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/herman-wouk/dont-stop-the-carnival)
- Publisher: [Publisher](https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/herman-wouk/dont-stop-the-carnival/9780316955126)