On the HahaFiction shelf
Don't Stop the Carnival
by Herman Wouk
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.
From the publisher’s blurb
“captures the comedy and tragedy of island life”Read the full description at Little, Brown Paperbacks
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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.
A few distinguishing details
- A New York press agent buys a Caribbean hotel
- Island escape becomes a string of business emergencies
More funny workplace comedy
Sources & further reading
- Kirkus review
Review
- Publisher
Publisher
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