What do you think?
Rate this book
How Not to Murder Your Grumpy
Before you push your Grumpy off the next bridge, look no further!
Is your Grumpy Old Man getting under your feet? Is he wrestling with retirement? Are you wondering if you should bundle him up and entrust him to basket-weaving classes? Then this book could be the answer to your prayers. This light hearted guide is packed full of lively ideas, anecdotes and quips. Not only does it set out to provide laughs, but offers over 700 ideas and ways to keep a Grumpy Old Man occupied.
From collecting airline sick bags to zorbing, you will be sure to find an absorbing pastime for your beloved curmudgeon. There are examples of those who have faced extraordinary challenges in older age, fascinating facts to interest a reluctant partner and innovative ideas drizzled, of course, with a large dollop of humour.
Written tongue-in-cheek, this book succeeds in proving that getting older doesn't mean the end of life or having fun. It provides amusing answers to the question, "How on Earth will my husband fill in his time in his retirement?" It offers suggestions on what might, or most certainly might not, amuse him. Ideal for trivia buffs, those approaching retirement, (or just at a loose end) and frustrated women who have an irritable male on their hands, this book will lighten any mood and may even prevent the odd murder.
Is your Grumpy Old Man getting under your feet? Is he wrestling with retirement? Are you wondering if you should bundle him up and entrust him to basket-weaving classes? Then this book could be the answer to your prayers. This light hearted guide is packed full of lively ideas, anecdotes and quips. Not only does it set out to provide laughs, but offers over 700 ideas and ways to keep a Grumpy Old Man occupied.
From collecting airline sick bags to zorbing, you will be sure to find an absorbing pastime for your beloved curmudgeon. There are examples of those who have faced extraordinary challenges in older age, fascinating facts to interest a reluctant partner and innovative ideas drizzled, of course, with a large dollop of humour.
Written tongue-in-cheek, this book succeeds in proving that getting older doesn't mean the end of life or having fun. It provides amusing answers to the question, "How on Earth will my husband fill in his time in his retirement?" It offers suggestions on what might, or most certainly might not, amuse him. Ideal for trivia buffs, those approaching retirement, (or just at a loose end) and frustrated women who have an irritable male on their hands, this book will lighten any mood and may even prevent the odd murder.
- GenresHumorNonfiction
106 pages, Paperback
First published May 21, 2013
2 people are currently reading
603 people want to read
About the author
Carol Wyer
37 books1,224 followersUSA Today bestselling author and winner of The People's Book Prize Award, Carol Wyer's crime novels have sold over one million copies and been translated into nine languages.
A move from humour to the 'dark side' in 2017, saw the introduction of popular DI Robyn Carter in Little Girl Lost and proved that Carol had found her true niche.
In 2021, An Eye For An Eye, the first in the DI Kate Young series, was chosen as a Kindle First Reads. It became the #1 bestselling book on Amazon UK and Australia. The third, A Life For A Life, is due out March 15th, 2022, but is available to preorder.
Carol has had articles published in national magazines 'Woman's Weekly', featured in 'Take A Break', 'Choice', 'Yours' and 'Woman's Own' magazines and written for the Huffington Post. She's also been interviewed on numerous radio shows and on BBC Breakfast television.
She currently lives on a windy hill in rural Staffordshire with her husband Mr. Grumpy who is very, very grumpy.
When not plotting devious murders, she can be found performing her comedy routine, Smile While You Still Have Teeth.
To learn more, go to www.carolwyer.co.uk, subscribe to her YouTube channel, or follow her on Twitter @carolewyer
A move from humour to the 'dark side' in 2017, saw the introduction of popular DI Robyn Carter in Little Girl Lost and proved that Carol had found her true niche.
In 2021, An Eye For An Eye, the first in the DI Kate Young series, was chosen as a Kindle First Reads. It became the #1 bestselling book on Amazon UK and Australia. The third, A Life For A Life, is due out March 15th, 2022, but is available to preorder.
Carol has had articles published in national magazines 'Woman's Weekly', featured in 'Take A Break', 'Choice', 'Yours' and 'Woman's Own' magazines and written for the Huffington Post. She's also been interviewed on numerous radio shows and on BBC Breakfast television.
She currently lives on a windy hill in rural Staffordshire with her husband Mr. Grumpy who is very, very grumpy.
When not plotting devious murders, she can be found performing her comedy routine, Smile While You Still Have Teeth.
To learn more, go to www.carolwyer.co.uk, subscribe to her YouTube channel, or follow her on Twitter @carolewyer
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 10, 2013
I feel terrible for saying this but this book was not for me. I don't enjoy doing negative reviews (although, to be fair, on Goodreads two stars = okay) but I didn't find this book to be particularly funny, which is unfortunate for a humor book.
When I saw this book on NetGalley I was very excited. I am in possession of the ultimate grumpy spouse and so I was pumped for a cute little book about how to deal with a sulky man. I was expecting a book very similar to K is for Knifeball An Alphabet of Terrible Advice, which I loved. However, this book isn't really what I expected. It is more of a trivia book under the guise of a humor book. I appreciate that the author did research into different random hobbies, but I was expecting something laugh-out-loud funny and I got more of a dullish fact book. It just didn't suit my tastes. Maybe it is because I didn't get the British humor?
I think if you are expecting more of a trivia-type of reading experience, then you might be pleased with this book. However, it didn't work for me personally.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
When I saw this book on NetGalley I was very excited. I am in possession of the ultimate grumpy spouse and so I was pumped for a cute little book about how to deal with a sulky man. I was expecting a book very similar to K is for Knifeball An Alphabet of Terrible Advice, which I loved. However, this book isn't really what I expected. It is more of a trivia book under the guise of a humor book. I appreciate that the author did research into different random hobbies, but I was expecting something laugh-out-loud funny and I got more of a dullish fact book. It just didn't suit my tastes. Maybe it is because I didn't get the British humor?
I think if you are expecting more of a trivia-type of reading experience, then you might be pleased with this book. However, it didn't work for me personally.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
April 12, 2013
If only I had come across this fun book sooner, because I have my own Mr Grumpy, and trying to find ways to keep him occupied has been a nightmare, but here Carol E Wyer has come up with such fantastic ideas for hobbies and pastimes, many of which I would never have thought of. I'm gifting my Mr Grumpy this brilliant book for his birthday. Even if he doesn't find something he might like to try from the suggestions detailed, he will indeed be kept amused and out of my hair as he laughs along with Carol's vibrant, humorous style of prose, and learns from the many well-researched interesting facts and fascinating figures presented, all in the light-hearted manner we have come to expect from this author. This is a great book for Mrs Grumpy too, as most, if not all, of the suggestions can be enjoyed by either sex. Who says retirement can be boring? Never – not with so much to explore and do. Another success for Carol Wyer, I am sure.
March 26, 2013
Brilliant book. I really enjoyed proofreading this book.
Oh yes, forgot to say - I am one of the editors at Safkhet Publishing, so I may be biased.
Still, it is very interesting to see all the things that you can do to fend off boredom, whether you are a Grumpy, have a Grumpy, or just need to find something new to do.
A real cornucopia of knowledge from Carol here - take a look and find something that interests you too!
Oh yes, forgot to say - I am one of the editors at Safkhet Publishing, so I may be biased.
Still, it is very interesting to see all the things that you can do to fend off boredom, whether you are a Grumpy, have a Grumpy, or just need to find something new to do.
A real cornucopia of knowledge from Carol here - take a look and find something that interests you too!
April 14, 2013
Probably not the sort of How To book you would think of looking for, is it? This is a hugely entertaining, informative, interesting and fun book of all sorts of things you can suggest to your newly retired better half to keep him out of your hair, and possibly prevent him from becoming a train-spotting anorak and even more grumpy. This isn’t just an A to Z of weird and wonderful activities, it’s delightfully funny and witty, (written by a very lovely funny and witty lady), peppered with fascinating facts and figures and jokes.
There aren’t just twenty-six pursuits to cajole your grumpy into: there are no less than 700. Anything from astronomy and antiques to juggling and jousting to yodelling and zorbing. See, what did I tell you? I was almost tempted to keep this from my very own Grumpy and take up the hobbies myself.
Even if you aren’t approaching those ‘senior’ years, this is a treasure trove of suggestions to keep anyone of any age out of mischief, fit and mentally active.
A superb ‘handbook’ written in Carol’s inimitable style. An absolute gem.
There aren’t just twenty-six pursuits to cajole your grumpy into: there are no less than 700. Anything from astronomy and antiques to juggling and jousting to yodelling and zorbing. See, what did I tell you? I was almost tempted to keep this from my very own Grumpy and take up the hobbies myself.
Even if you aren’t approaching those ‘senior’ years, this is a treasure trove of suggestions to keep anyone of any age out of mischief, fit and mentally active.
A superb ‘handbook’ written in Carol’s inimitable style. An absolute gem.
April 22, 2013
When your Grumpy Old Man is getting under your feet and grumbling about everything from the `state of the economy' to the `rubbish on the TV' you'll know he needs an all absorbing hobby - and this amusing book by the fabulously witty Carol Wyer is just the thing to suggest to him not just one - but hundreds. Although, you may not want him to see the title, not unless of course you really do have a potentially murderous grumpy situation, and then it can be considered fair warning! How Not To Murder Your Grumpy is an outrageously funny and tongue in cheek guide for GOMs everywhere and after reading this guide that might just be an acronym for Giggly Old Man. Totally entertaining and highly recommended!
Thank you to Carol and her publishers for sending me an advance review copy free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Carol and her publishers for sending me an advance review copy free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
April 17, 2013
This is the third book that I have read by Carol Wyer and can honestly say she has not disappointed me. She has an amazing sense of humor. I wasn't sure what to expect by the title of "How Not To...." and it was quite different from the norm (if there is such a thing as norm)! Carol had me on the floor in stitches with some of the things she suggests. My particular favorite was "G" for .....
You'll just have to read it now to see!
You'll just have to read it now to see!
Want to read
May 13, 2013I've heard so much about this book I just have to add it to my reads list.
May 25, 2013
Ironically idealistic and yet so true this must-read guide is so hilarious, as to have you in stitches!
As a huge fan of Carol E Wyer’s “Mini Skirts and Laughter Lines” and “Surfing in Stilettos”, I was unreservedly jumping up and down squealing with delight upon encountering this new book.
Enduring the irritability caused by ‘Grumpy Old Men’ is customary in latter years, and so this pocket book full of possibilities not only aids the forlorn female but creates joy with humor. Saving sanity and instilling hope are only just two of the things that this book presents, as well as planting a rather large cheesy grin upon one’s face as the remarks and cliché ‘hit home’. Identifiable comments and accurate assessment of the grumpy male had me laughing-out-loud with tears trickling down my cheeks ~ Carol E Wyer certainly has acute familiarity.
Some habitual moaning may include rants regarding the failing economy, pot holes in the road or the classic ‘weather’ quarrel. Whatever the grumpy old man throws at you the handy hints within this book help you to “keep your pecker up” and remind you that: a Grumpy is for life, not just for Christmas! If your GOB would benefit from taking up a new hobby, then what about suggesting aviation? After all, he can’t annoy anyone at fifty feet in the air…plus collecting antique airplanes will take him to places far and wide. If not, there is always Gardening or Golf that is relaxing and will calm those creases in his brow and maybe mask those frowns?
Between the giggles this brilliant book brings to the fore such sincerity and warmth, as to touch you personally and connect with you wholeheartedly. The author continues to put herself into her work, hence why it ‘strikes a chord’ in all of us readers ~ she is as human as you or I. Exquisitely evocative and truth-drawing, I would like to congratulate Carol on her latest and greatest achievement which I absolutely LOVE. Fabulously fun and full of dry-humor and light-hearted banter this is a wonderful read for all!
*I was sent a copy of “How not to murder your grumpy” by Carol E Wyer herself. I would like to thank the author for this*
As a huge fan of Carol E Wyer’s “Mini Skirts and Laughter Lines” and “Surfing in Stilettos”, I was unreservedly jumping up and down squealing with delight upon encountering this new book.
Enduring the irritability caused by ‘Grumpy Old Men’ is customary in latter years, and so this pocket book full of possibilities not only aids the forlorn female but creates joy with humor. Saving sanity and instilling hope are only just two of the things that this book presents, as well as planting a rather large cheesy grin upon one’s face as the remarks and cliché ‘hit home’. Identifiable comments and accurate assessment of the grumpy male had me laughing-out-loud with tears trickling down my cheeks ~ Carol E Wyer certainly has acute familiarity.
Some habitual moaning may include rants regarding the failing economy, pot holes in the road or the classic ‘weather’ quarrel. Whatever the grumpy old man throws at you the handy hints within this book help you to “keep your pecker up” and remind you that: a Grumpy is for life, not just for Christmas! If your GOB would benefit from taking up a new hobby, then what about suggesting aviation? After all, he can’t annoy anyone at fifty feet in the air…plus collecting antique airplanes will take him to places far and wide. If not, there is always Gardening or Golf that is relaxing and will calm those creases in his brow and maybe mask those frowns?
Between the giggles this brilliant book brings to the fore such sincerity and warmth, as to touch you personally and connect with you wholeheartedly. The author continues to put herself into her work, hence why it ‘strikes a chord’ in all of us readers ~ she is as human as you or I. Exquisitely evocative and truth-drawing, I would like to congratulate Carol on her latest and greatest achievement which I absolutely LOVE. Fabulously fun and full of dry-humor and light-hearted banter this is a wonderful read for all!
*I was sent a copy of “How not to murder your grumpy” by Carol E Wyer herself. I would like to thank the author for this*
April 9, 2013
How Not to Murder Your Grumpy is a "must-read" for anyone living with a grumpy. It is intended for women who are fed up with their grouch bags but it applies equally well to women. Since reading it I have been overcome with an urge to buy a Tamagotchi and take up wing-walking.
It is essentially a list and explanation of hobbies, littered with jokes and short personal experience stories, but it had me wiping tears from my face as I imagined my other half taking up some of the outlandish suggestions that Carol E Wyer makes.
Buy it for yourself to read (make sure you are alone in a room and not in the office), then give it to your partner in the hope that they will be crazy enough to pursue one of the suggestions and give you both another laugh. Top book. Recommend it highly.
How Not to Murder Your Grumpy
It is essentially a list and explanation of hobbies, littered with jokes and short personal experience stories, but it had me wiping tears from my face as I imagined my other half taking up some of the outlandish suggestions that Carol E Wyer makes.
Buy it for yourself to read (make sure you are alone in a room and not in the office), then give it to your partner in the hope that they will be crazy enough to pursue one of the suggestions and give you both another laugh. Top book. Recommend it highly.
How Not to Murder Your Grumpy
April 15, 2013
The title alone was enough to get me to read this hilarious how-to. Ms. Wyer lists, from A to Z, hundreds of suggestions to get your own GOM (grumpy old man) off the couch and living life (and out of your hair). I'm sure many of us can sympathize with the "man-at-home-driving-me-nuts" syndrome for which this book was written.
Not yet at that special time of life when you too will be able to spend quality time 24/7 with your significant other? Read this book to get a step-up on what to do to send him on his way, happy and engaged, leaving you to get on with your own interests. Written in Carol Wyer's inimitable and witty style, HNTMYG is chock-full of great ideas (and some definitely tongue-in-cheek) for anyone at any age to live life to its fullest. My main take-away? You're never too old to try new things--be it hub-cap collecting or Morris dancing. And now, I'm off to sign up for mud larking...
Not yet at that special time of life when you too will be able to spend quality time 24/7 with your significant other? Read this book to get a step-up on what to do to send him on his way, happy and engaged, leaving you to get on with your own interests. Written in Carol Wyer's inimitable and witty style, HNTMYG is chock-full of great ideas (and some definitely tongue-in-cheek) for anyone at any age to live life to its fullest. My main take-away? You're never too old to try new things--be it hub-cap collecting or Morris dancing. And now, I'm off to sign up for mud larking...
April 15, 2013
Carol Wyer has a wonderful sense of humor, as anyone who has read her other books is well aware of. In "How Not to Murder Your Grumpy", she entertains the readers with an A to Z list of activities guaranteed to keep your grumpy out of your hair. Some of the suggestions are very unusual but most are quite doable.
You can tell the author did a lot of research to come up with all this material and with Wyer's light-hearted style of writing (including some terrible jokes and puns), the reader never gets bored.
This is a fun book to read and I recommend it to everyone, even to those who do not have grumpies to deal with. You will enjoy!
You can tell the author did a lot of research to come up with all this material and with Wyer's light-hearted style of writing (including some terrible jokes and puns), the reader never gets bored.
This is a fun book to read and I recommend it to everyone, even to those who do not have grumpies to deal with. You will enjoy!
April 6, 2013
Carol is a wonderful writer - and very very funny!
April 6, 2013
What a well-written, exceptionally funny book. I succeeded in making the entire compartment of the rush hour train stare at me as I tried desperately not to laugh out too loud.
This book is packed with facts, stories and hilarious suggestions. It is all written in a very relaxed easy style which only serves to make you feel as if you having a snigger with a friend.
Excellent book from a very witty author. How Not to Murder Your Grumpy
This book is packed with facts, stories and hilarious suggestions. It is all written in a very relaxed easy style which only serves to make you feel as if you having a snigger with a friend.
Excellent book from a very witty author. How Not to Murder Your Grumpy
June 29, 2013
i was literally pmsl all way through this book i have never laughed so much at any book i have read was so funny id thoroughly recommend it it will cheer u up no end well done carol cant wait for your next one hope its as good
June 7, 2013
Snicker. Chuckle. Guffaw. Snort. This 89-page e-book should elicit some humorous reaction.
Styled in a quick-witted British pacing, the book serves as a manual to activate a retiree. This cheeky presentation is slanted more as a woman’s guide to encourage her GOM (Grumpy Old Man). But the suggestions can be reflective—a mirroring for any person in retirement who needs to engage in some activity.
The reader is taken alphabetically from “aeroplane” and “archery” to “zorbing” and “Zumba” as examples of tempting pastimes that the GOM might pursue. Blended into a hobby’s description or explanation are historical events, trivia associations, and category award winners from the Guinness World Records.
Puns and word play abound liberally in Wyer’s slick style. Also, quirky riddles are interspersed throughout. For example, “Q: What do you call an American drawing? A: A Yankee Doodle.” Groan, if you must; but, believe it or not, that’s what passes as “humour” in this work.
It is possible that a non-British audience might be clueless about some parochial material. We might miss the importance of “Kinder Eggs” or “PG Tips.” And, references to Only Fools and Horses (1980s’ BBC comedy series) or to the Harry Enfield and Paul Whitehouse sketches will prove meaningless to a foreigner. But the reader might translate some insular items: “Kendall Mint Cake” as York Peppermint Patty and “Meccano” as an erector set.
There are a few grammatical gaffes in this publication. Some hyphenation would allow the text to be better read. Numbers, especially percentages, are handled inconsistently. And, of course, British spelling can be off-putting to an American audience; although the reader might learn a few new terms for crossword puzzles: e.g., “rumbustious” (“rambunctious”).
Despite any different spellings, the humor in this guide enlivens the panoply of thoughtful suggestions. The work is a delightful, enlightening entertainment. Then, “Bob’s your uncle,” a pensioner just might launch into a new pastime.
Styled in a quick-witted British pacing, the book serves as a manual to activate a retiree. This cheeky presentation is slanted more as a woman’s guide to encourage her GOM (Grumpy Old Man). But the suggestions can be reflective—a mirroring for any person in retirement who needs to engage in some activity.
The reader is taken alphabetically from “aeroplane” and “archery” to “zorbing” and “Zumba” as examples of tempting pastimes that the GOM might pursue. Blended into a hobby’s description or explanation are historical events, trivia associations, and category award winners from the Guinness World Records.
Puns and word play abound liberally in Wyer’s slick style. Also, quirky riddles are interspersed throughout. For example, “Q: What do you call an American drawing? A: A Yankee Doodle.” Groan, if you must; but, believe it or not, that’s what passes as “humour” in this work.
It is possible that a non-British audience might be clueless about some parochial material. We might miss the importance of “Kinder Eggs” or “PG Tips.” And, references to Only Fools and Horses (1980s’ BBC comedy series) or to the Harry Enfield and Paul Whitehouse sketches will prove meaningless to a foreigner. But the reader might translate some insular items: “Kendall Mint Cake” as York Peppermint Patty and “Meccano” as an erector set.
There are a few grammatical gaffes in this publication. Some hyphenation would allow the text to be better read. Numbers, especially percentages, are handled inconsistently. And, of course, British spelling can be off-putting to an American audience; although the reader might learn a few new terms for crossword puzzles: e.g., “rumbustious” (“rambunctious”).
Despite any different spellings, the humor in this guide enlivens the panoply of thoughtful suggestions. The work is a delightful, enlightening entertainment. Then, “Bob’s your uncle,” a pensioner just might launch into a new pastime.
June 5, 2013
Carol E. Wyer is a lovely, funny lady. I have appreciated her humor since I discovered her blog before her first novel (Mini Skirts & Laughter Lines) came out. I looked forward with eager anticipation to the review copy of How Not to Murder Your Grumpy which she arranged to have sent to me at the earliest possible moment.
In the book she offers us all sorts of tips on how to keep our husbands amused and out of our hair once they decide to retire. I'm not quite there yet, but I certainly know the male species well enough to know how they can get underfoot if they're home with their spouse too long too often. The tips she offers range from the intellectually interesting (stamp collecting, bird watching) to the interestingly obscure (Korfball, anyone?) to the downright unusual (rabbit show jumping?). And the commentary that accompanies these suggestions range from the mildly amusing to the more infrequent laugh-out-loud hilarious.
Which brings me to my take on the book....it was a pleasant enough read and it did provide amusement, but I'm afraid it wasn't quite as funny as anticipated. I have to say that I have laughed and chuckled far more often when reading Carol's blog than I did while reading her how-to book on keeping the hubby entertained. A nice quick read for a solid three-star outing which just didn't quite knock it out of the park for me.
This review was first posted on my blog My Reader's Block. Please request permission before reposting any portion. Thanks.
[Disclaimer: This book was sent to me as a review copy by the author. My review policy is posted on my blog, but just to reiterate...This review copy was offered to me for impartial review and I have received no payment of any kind. All comments are entirely my own honest opinion.]
In the book she offers us all sorts of tips on how to keep our husbands amused and out of our hair once they decide to retire. I'm not quite there yet, but I certainly know the male species well enough to know how they can get underfoot if they're home with their spouse too long too often. The tips she offers range from the intellectually interesting (stamp collecting, bird watching) to the interestingly obscure (Korfball, anyone?) to the downright unusual (rabbit show jumping?). And the commentary that accompanies these suggestions range from the mildly amusing to the more infrequent laugh-out-loud hilarious.
Which brings me to my take on the book....it was a pleasant enough read and it did provide amusement, but I'm afraid it wasn't quite as funny as anticipated. I have to say that I have laughed and chuckled far more often when reading Carol's blog than I did while reading her how-to book on keeping the hubby entertained. A nice quick read for a solid three-star outing which just didn't quite knock it out of the park for me.
This review was first posted on my blog My Reader's Block. Please request permission before reposting any portion. Thanks.
[Disclaimer: This book was sent to me as a review copy by the author. My review policy is posted on my blog, but just to reiterate...This review copy was offered to me for impartial review and I have received no payment of any kind. All comments are entirely my own honest opinion.]
January 2, 2014
Let me preface this review by saying I am not married nor retired. However, I live with my parents who are retired, and I can somewhat sympathize with some of what is depicted in this book. After all, my mother and I are dealing with a GOM on a daily basis! Our problem is that no matter what we do, we can't seem to keep him involved in hobbies and other things for a long enough time. He always comes back somehow!!
In this very smart, entertaining book, the author has created a survival for women to deal with their husbands following retirement. Or maybe just in general. I believe most women have been at wit's end with the men in their lives, and retirement only makes things more difficult. Carol Wyer has organized this book in such a way that the reader can quickly find suggestions to aid women in remaining sane with a Grump at home. After all, we know that murder is illegal, so it is in everyone's best interest to find legal hobbies and amusements to occupy these potential nuisances. And the author speaks from her own personal experience--she has tried many of the ideas herself with differing degrees of success.
There is no profanity about which to caution the reader, and certainly no sex scenes. There are a couple of suggestions that could be potentially offensive, but in light of the author's purpose for writing, I didn't see this as an issue. I was glad that I was somewhat familiar with UK jargon, but I am certain that some of the references went over my head. I greatly anticipate reading more from this author!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
In this very smart, entertaining book, the author has created a survival for women to deal with their husbands following retirement. Or maybe just in general. I believe most women have been at wit's end with the men in their lives, and retirement only makes things more difficult. Carol Wyer has organized this book in such a way that the reader can quickly find suggestions to aid women in remaining sane with a Grump at home. After all, we know that murder is illegal, so it is in everyone's best interest to find legal hobbies and amusements to occupy these potential nuisances. And the author speaks from her own personal experience--she has tried many of the ideas herself with differing degrees of success.
There is no profanity about which to caution the reader, and certainly no sex scenes. There are a couple of suggestions that could be potentially offensive, but in light of the author's purpose for writing, I didn't see this as an issue. I was glad that I was somewhat familiar with UK jargon, but I am certain that some of the references went over my head. I greatly anticipate reading more from this author!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
July 30, 2013
When I first saw the title of this book, I immediately thought to myself... what is a Grumpy? Well, it's a grumpy old man who has retired, hangs around the house all day bored after working all those years. You know the ones that don't know what to do, they get in your way and disrupt the routine you've had for years.
If you happen to have a Grumpy hanging about, this book will give you ideas to keep him busy with a hobby. The author really did a lot of research because she has managed to find over 700 (from A to Z) ideas and ways to keep a Grumpy busy and you out of jail for killing him!
It was a fun read with lots of different ideas, some that I found interesting for me. If you are looking for a humorous book that is different and a quick read, you'll like this one.
* I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
If you happen to have a Grumpy hanging about, this book will give you ideas to keep him busy with a hobby. The author really did a lot of research because she has managed to find over 700 (from A to Z) ideas and ways to keep a Grumpy busy and you out of jail for killing him!
It was a fun read with lots of different ideas, some that I found interesting for me. If you are looking for a humorous book that is different and a quick read, you'll like this one.
* I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 12, 2013
This book is such a fun read! Carol provides the reader with over 700 ideas of how to keep a Grumpy Old Man occupied. In fact, I believe these super tips work on every boy/man no matter the age.
I love the bright and yellow cover! I have never seen a book before that was this striking. Good on you Carol .
I don’t necessarily think that this book is for reading in one go but rather for picking it up from time to time to flip through the pages to find the ideal occupational tool for a Grumpy (husband, dad, uncle etc.). How I keep my Grumpy happy? I give him this book to read – he laughs out loud and is instantly in a better mood
This utterly hilarious read made for a perfect break for me during a busy day at work (my spirits were lifted immediately!).
I love the bright and yellow cover! I have never seen a book before that was this striking. Good on you Carol .
I don’t necessarily think that this book is for reading in one go but rather for picking it up from time to time to flip through the pages to find the ideal occupational tool for a Grumpy (husband, dad, uncle etc.). How I keep my Grumpy happy? I give him this book to read – he laughs out loud and is instantly in a better mood
This utterly hilarious read made for a perfect break for me during a busy day at work (my spirits were lifted immediately!).
May 11, 2013
My wife asked me to read this book after she read it and kept me awake at night because she kept laughing at it. I was very sceptical as I don't think I am at all grumpy and I was concerned that she had taken some of the ideas from it to heart.
It was very entertaining and Carol E Wyer managed to make me laugh too at some of the funny suggestions. This is rare indeed. I had to ask my wife what a Tamagotchi was but I mostly found myself fascinated by the trivia in the book.
The book is very well written with a nice easy conversational style and punctuated with stories and jokes.
I liked it very much and I am hoping my wife arranges some of these activities for my next birthday.
It was very entertaining and Carol E Wyer managed to make me laugh too at some of the funny suggestions. This is rare indeed. I had to ask my wife what a Tamagotchi was but I mostly found myself fascinated by the trivia in the book.
The book is very well written with a nice easy conversational style and punctuated with stories and jokes.
I liked it very much and I am hoping my wife arranges some of these activities for my next birthday.
May 11, 2013
I was rather hoping that this book would give me an idea of how to go about disposing of my other half. I should have realised that it would detract me from murder and in fact has encouraged me to take up dance classes and enrol my man in some sailing lessons.
How Not to Murder Your Grumpy is a fun book. It is the sort of book you give your best friend or your mother. It is the sort of book that you can enjoy on several levels. Most of all, it the sort of book that will help you when you are wondering what to do with your man.
Mine retired last month. Thank heavens I found this book in time.
How Not to Murder Your Grumpy is a fun book. It is the sort of book you give your best friend or your mother. It is the sort of book that you can enjoy on several levels. Most of all, it the sort of book that will help you when you are wondering what to do with your man.
Mine retired last month. Thank heavens I found this book in time.
October 2, 2013
The author very kindly sent me this book in exchange for an honest review.
I read this book (almost) in one sitting! Ok, it is a pretty slim volume, but even so ....!
To be honest, I didn't like it as much as Carol's other book Mini Skirts and Laughter Lines, but it was still very funny.
My grumpy is still alive and moaning, so the book must have worked, lol.
I read this book (almost) in one sitting! Ok, it is a pretty slim volume, but even so ....!
To be honest, I didn't like it as much as Carol's other book Mini Skirts and Laughter Lines, but it was still very funny.
My grumpy is still alive and moaning, so the book must have worked, lol.
June 20, 2013
Review to follow
August 7, 2013
Okay, must start this review out by saying that the book How Not to Murder Your Grumpy by Carol E. Wyer cracked me up when I first saw the title. Well…actually, I was more confused at first. I thought grumpy meant grandpa, and I originally thought the book was actually about murder. However, when I read an excerpt from it, I immediately knew I had to read this. Because it is not, in fact, about real murder and grandpas, it is about GOMs (Grumpy Old Men a.k.a Husbands) and wives who just want them out of their hair. It is about finding something to do in the retirement age.
I realized, though, that this book doesn't just have to apply to older people. It can apply to us younger generations as well. There are so many activities to be done around the world, so many interesting and wonderful things that can spice up life. In fact, this book gave me several ideas on things I might want to do in the near future. Things like hunting for sapphires and diamonds, or extreme ironing (something my cousin just recently started), or even putting together the world’s largest jigsaw puzzle (It is called Double Respect and has approximately 32,256 pieces…all half an inch in size.) No, I am not crazy…I just really like puzzles.
Along with informing the reader about things that we can do, there are also anecdotes, jokes, and the occasional fun fact.
For me, this book went very quickly and I quite enjoyed it. From A to Z, Carol Wyer has included an activity for everyone. And I mean everyone…
Although, I would like to point out to Mrs. Wyer that Quidditch has actually become a real thing in the ‘muggle’ world. It was established as a real-live sport in 2005 in Middlebury, Vermont, and one of these days I vow to join a team.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves an interesting and entertaining read.
I realized, though, that this book doesn't just have to apply to older people. It can apply to us younger generations as well. There are so many activities to be done around the world, so many interesting and wonderful things that can spice up life. In fact, this book gave me several ideas on things I might want to do in the near future. Things like hunting for sapphires and diamonds, or extreme ironing (something my cousin just recently started), or even putting together the world’s largest jigsaw puzzle (It is called Double Respect and has approximately 32,256 pieces…all half an inch in size.) No, I am not crazy…I just really like puzzles.
Along with informing the reader about things that we can do, there are also anecdotes, jokes, and the occasional fun fact.
For me, this book went very quickly and I quite enjoyed it. From A to Z, Carol Wyer has included an activity for everyone. And I mean everyone…
Although, I would like to point out to Mrs. Wyer that Quidditch has actually become a real thing in the ‘muggle’ world. It was established as a real-live sport in 2005 in Middlebury, Vermont, and one of these days I vow to join a team.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves an interesting and entertaining read.
February 14, 2016
In How Not To Murder Your Grumpy, author Carol E. Wyer has drawn on her own personal experience of life with a retired 'grumpy' ageing husband at home to write an humourous book highlighting many ways, over 700 suggestions in fact, to keep just such a husband occupied and therefore not drive you to distraction!
I've enjoyed Carol E Wyer's writing in her fiction novels that I've read (Mini Skirts & Laughter Lines and Surfing in Stilletos) and that same witty, cheeky but warm-hearted humour is again in evidence here, together with a slightly more factual element to the content, this time in a shorter work that is fun to just pick up and read a few passages or pages from.
Presented as an A-Z guide to activities ranging from fun, to sporty, serious and just bizarre, there are passages on everything from furniture restoration, to campanology, bodyflying and yodelling, all included here with the ultimate aim of encouraging 'your beloved Grumpy...to stop wrestling with retirement and tackle a new venture.'
I was tickled by some of the ideas here and by the variety of potential activities, and enjoyed reading about some of the people who have tackled these pursuits, including the 96 year old man mastering Zumba!
I was also glad to read the 'Author's note: No Grumpy Old Men were harmed in the writing of this book.' :-)
I've enjoyed Carol E Wyer's writing in her fiction novels that I've read (Mini Skirts & Laughter Lines and Surfing in Stilletos) and that same witty, cheeky but warm-hearted humour is again in evidence here, together with a slightly more factual element to the content, this time in a shorter work that is fun to just pick up and read a few passages or pages from.
Presented as an A-Z guide to activities ranging from fun, to sporty, serious and just bizarre, there are passages on everything from furniture restoration, to campanology, bodyflying and yodelling, all included here with the ultimate aim of encouraging 'your beloved Grumpy...to stop wrestling with retirement and tackle a new venture.'
I was tickled by some of the ideas here and by the variety of potential activities, and enjoyed reading about some of the people who have tackled these pursuits, including the 96 year old man mastering Zumba!
I was also glad to read the 'Author's note: No Grumpy Old Men were harmed in the writing of this book.' :-)
September 15, 2013
The premise of this book is simple. Just like mothers with kids out of school for the summer need to find fun activities to prevent boredom in the kids and maintain their own sanity, retired husbands need the same attention. Wyer lists ideas arranged from A to Z for hobbies and other activities that could potentially keep hubby busy and out of the way of their poor, suffering spouse. The book is a quick, light-hearted read, with the primary goal of getting a laugh, but still with enough information that it might spark an idea and sometimes point you in the right direction for more information. It’s sprinkled throughout with interesting and entertaining trivia and the occasional joke.
Although the book has a definite British-bent, most of the ideas will be familiar to those anywhere in the world. A few may not be, which when I was reading only served to get more laughs. One example is “Molly Dancing,” where the participants “wave hankies and bells ... and shout a lot.” Those wacky Brits.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
Although the book has a definite British-bent, most of the ideas will be familiar to those anywhere in the world. A few may not be, which when I was reading only served to get more laughs. One example is “Molly Dancing,” where the participants “wave hankies and bells ... and shout a lot.” Those wacky Brits.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
September 1, 2013
This is another entertaining and fun read from author Carol E. Wyer. This is a great little book that is packed full of ideas and activities, to help keep your Grumpy amused and help them find an interest and hobby that will make them feel useful again after they retire or are just a general grump. Ideas that will hopefully put a big smiley face on your Grumpy, once he has found a new life purpose and new challenges.
All in good fun and filled full of humour and some crazy fun ideas, Carol lists her activities in alphabetical order and there are lots and lots of ideas over seven hundred worth to get your Grumpy going into trying out new things. I have to say I would not mind giving some of the activities included in this book a go! I also enjoyed Carol’s jokes and statistics and interesting facts about older people and what they have gone onto achieve in later life.
This is a book guaranteed to have you laughing out loud and if you do live with a Grumpy the book itself will give you a much needed break to recharge your batteries and on a more serious note actually help you out for real by giving you an idea that just might work!
Thoroughly good fun!
All in good fun and filled full of humour and some crazy fun ideas, Carol lists her activities in alphabetical order and there are lots and lots of ideas over seven hundred worth to get your Grumpy going into trying out new things. I have to say I would not mind giving some of the activities included in this book a go! I also enjoyed Carol’s jokes and statistics and interesting facts about older people and what they have gone onto achieve in later life.
This is a book guaranteed to have you laughing out loud and if you do live with a Grumpy the book itself will give you a much needed break to recharge your batteries and on a more serious note actually help you out for real by giving you an idea that just might work!
Thoroughly good fun!
June 9, 2013
Over 700 ideas how to... make busy your 'Man of the house' without making you busy... or just plain - 700 ideas how to avoid jail...
Although this was the first of Wyer's book in my hands... actually a book in a long time... I know that I will look for her books again. So much laughter, so many great ideas... well, for my Mr. G several of them wouldn't do, as he does them already... Yes, I taught him well.. ;)
Anyway - I know I will read this book in following years for sure, looking for some more ideas, how to keep him busy, without making me annoying when I needed to read a book...
Well, one idea was particularly in my interests as he likes doing it already... well at least half way - I will have to (well, later at least) encourage his lawn mowing love into perhaps a real lawn mowing racing... not bad, really not bad at all...
Although this was the first of Wyer's book in my hands... actually a book in a long time... I know that I will look for her books again. So much laughter, so many great ideas... well, for my Mr. G several of them wouldn't do, as he does them already... Yes, I taught him well.. ;)
Anyway - I know I will read this book in following years for sure, looking for some more ideas, how to keep him busy, without making me annoying when I needed to read a book...
Well, one idea was particularly in my interests as he likes doing it already... well at least half way - I will have to (well, later at least) encourage his lawn mowing love into perhaps a real lawn mowing racing... not bad, really not bad at all...
May 28, 2013
Hundreds of helpful hints for dealing with the Grumpy Old Man in your life!
Here's a book with literally hundreds of ideas for getting your Grumpy Old Man out from under your feet - more hobbies and activities than you can shake a stick at, all delivered with Wyer's adorable sense of humour (three parts mischief, two parts gossipy friend, four parts funny lady).
While doubtless aimed at newly-retired couples looking for a wealth of ideas of things to do and explore (and giggle while doing so), almost anyone looking for a hobby would enjoy reading through the suggestions Wyer makes. Clearly a great deal of effort has gone into this, and as with her other titles, Wyer hits the target dead centre.
Highly recommended.
Here's a book with literally hundreds of ideas for getting your Grumpy Old Man out from under your feet - more hobbies and activities than you can shake a stick at, all delivered with Wyer's adorable sense of humour (three parts mischief, two parts gossipy friend, four parts funny lady).
While doubtless aimed at newly-retired couples looking for a wealth of ideas of things to do and explore (and giggle while doing so), almost anyone looking for a hobby would enjoy reading through the suggestions Wyer makes. Clearly a great deal of effort has gone into this, and as with her other titles, Wyer hits the target dead centre.
Highly recommended.
June 5, 2013
Not only a great guide as how not to murder your grumpy by keeping him from getting under your feet, this is also full of 'jokes' (most of them pretty bad it has to be said but that's more than OK with me) and interesting facts that who knows may well come in useful should you or your grumpy decide to join a quiz team which incidentally is just one of the many, many pastimes suggested in this A to Z guide of activities.
A fun book with some 700 suggestions ranging from Aviation by way of Molly Dancing through to Zumba, at less than 100 pages I wish it was longer.
Copyright: Petty Witter @ Pen and Paper.
A fun book with some 700 suggestions ranging from Aviation by way of Molly Dancing through to Zumba, at less than 100 pages I wish it was longer.
Copyright: Petty Witter @ Pen and Paper.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews