I bought this book from the Quality Paperback Book Club in 1983 or soon thereafter. Ever since, its highlights have been an important part of my brain, such as Winston Churchill's comment to Lady Astor regarding his tea or Gore Vidal's thoughts on success. This book contains some of the absolutely most profound and funniest statements ever made by men or women, and its focus means it gives more pleasure per page than a larger book of quotations.

On the other hand, it hasn't always aged well. The editor has a particular hatred for punk rock, which he brings out for some unknown reason during at least two of the interviews with curmudgeons that break up the quotes by alphabetical subject. The book also directs a lot more vile against women than men, although a few of the observations about men may make up for several of the ones about women. Still, most of the curmudgeons, past and present, are men, so it isn't that surprising. All the usual suspects are here--W.C. Fields, Oscar Wilde, George S. Kaufman, Groucho Marx, and on and on and on. This is still a book everyone should have. Be prepared to be insulted, disgusted, and made to laugh out loud. ( )

A book of quotations by curmudgeons on a variety of topics. Some sparkle with brilliance, some with humor. A few are malicious, even nasty. Many are keepers worthy of your notebooks.

This book resembles Ambrose Bierce’s “Devil’s Dictionary” but is derived from a variety of authors, not just one. They range from Voltaire and Oscar Wilde to Woody Allen and Johnny Carson. From Ben Jonson to Al Capp, arranged alphabetically by subject matter.

Included are interesting short bios of prominent world-class curmudgeons. They were a neurotic bunch, but brazenly outspoken. Their zany antics are amusing to read about.

It is not necessary to hate mankind to enjoy this book, but it would help. There is something here to please everyone except Pollyannas, to whom it is not recommended. But if you are in a sour mood or lean toward the cynical or pessimistic, you can’t go wrong with this one. ( )

A good collection of some of the great quotes from notable (and not so notable) critics, commentators, and grumps. The sharp humour in most of these keeps the collection from bringing you down, but I wouldn't recommend reading this all in one sitting.

Os. ( )

More grumpy quotes. Most are well-known, but a few brought a new smile to my face. ( )