Books Like...
The Loved One by Evelyn Waugh is a satirical novel that offers a biting commentary on the burial traditions and funeral industry in California, particularly in Hollywood. The plot revolves around Dennis Barlow, a British poet who finds himself entangled in a love triangle with Aimee Thanatogenos, a cosmetician at Whispering Glades Memorial Park, and Mr. Joyboy, the head mortician. Through absurd and humorous situations, Waugh skewers the American way of death, exploring themes of vapidness, broken systems, and cultural differences between the British ex-pat community and American society.
The novel is praised for its incisive satire, dark humor, and sharp wit in exposing the absurdity of American funeral customs and Hollywood society. Waugh's writing style is described as economical yet impactful, with a keen eye for detail and a talent for creating vivid, flawed characters that add depth to the humorous narrative.
If you liked The Loved One, here are the top 69 books to read next:
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Save:The Day of the Locust by Nathanael West is a novel set in Hollywood in the 1930s, exploring the dark side of the entertainment industry through the eyes of various characters. The book delves into themes of decadence, desperation, and disillusionment, portraying a world where individuals are driven to ruin by their pursuit of fame and fortune. The writing style is described as skillful and precise, with vivid descriptions that bring the characters and setting to life, even though the plot may seem disjointed at times.
Around quitting time, Tod Hackett heard a great din on the road outside his office. The groan of leather mingled with the jangle of iron and over all beat the tattoo of a thousand hooves. He hurried t... - #2
Save:'Scoop' by Evelyn Waugh is a satirical novel that follows the misadventures of William Boot, a rural journalist who is mistakenly sent to cover a war in the African kingdom of Ishmaelia. The book humorously portrays the absurdity of journalism, colonialism, and foreign affairs, with a sharp wit and clever writing style that captures the chaotic world of Fleet Street and the comical misunderstandings that arise in a war zone. Through mistaken identities, farcical situations, and quirky characters, Waugh creates a hilarious and insightful commentary on the press, politics, and society of the time.
While still a young man, John Courteney Boot had, as his publisher proclaimed, “achieved an assured and enviable position in contemporary letters.” His novels sold fifteen thousand copies in their fir... - #3
Save:"Hope: A Tragedy" by Shalom Auslander follows Solomon Kugel, a Jewish man who moves with his family to an old farmhouse in a quiet American village. The story takes a darkly comic turn when Kugel discovers a long-term squatter in the attic claiming to be Anne Frank, who spends her time writing a new novel. explores themes of survival, guilt, and the absurdity of life, with Kugel's mother claiming to be a Holocaust survivor despite living a safe life in the USA, adding a layer of dark humor to the narrative.
The plot of the book revolves around Kugel's interactions with the eccentric characters in the town, his obsession with death and hope, and the unexpected presence of Anne Frank in his attic. Auslander's writing style is described as fast-paced, full of punch-you-in-the-face humor, and original, with a mix of mordant humor and absurdity that keeps readers engaged despite the repetitive nature of some jokes and themes.
There you are, pounding on the windows, climbing higher and higher through your burning home, trying to get away, to get out, hoping that if you can just avoid the flames, perhaps you’ll survive the f... - #4
Save:'Calypso' by David Sedaris is a collection of personal essays that delve into the author's life, family dynamics, and experiences. Through a mix of humor and introspection, Sedaris touches on topics such as aging, relationships, his family's quirks, and dealing with difficult issues like his sister's suicide and his father's health. The writing style is described as raw, humorous, and at times poignant, offering a unique perspective on everyday life and personal struggles.
In late May 2013, a few weeks shy of her fiftieth birthday, my youngest sister, Tiffany, committed suicide. She was living in a room in a beat-up house on the hard end of Somerville, Massachusetts, an... - #5
Save:In 'Mother for Dinner' by Shalom Auslander, the story revolves around a large family of siblings who must come together to witness the death of their mother and then partake in the Cannibal tradition of consuming her body. Through this darkly humorous premise, the author satirizes society's obsession with identity, culture, and tradition. The narrative cleverly explores themes of family dynamics, societal norms, and the complexities of individuality within a group setting.
The book is written in a witty and satirical style, using irony and humor to delve into serious topics such as culture, family, and the immigrant experience. Auslander's unique writing approach challenges readers to question societal norms and traditions, while also providing a thought-provoking commentary on the nature of identity and belonging.
They’re revolting, head to toe (the head is the worst part). No amount of seasoning will change that, ask anyone who’s consumed one. You can broil them, you can sous vide them, you can dehydrate them ... 'A History of the World in 101 2 Chapters' by Julian Barnes is a collection of stories and essays that explore historical events and themes from Noah's Ark to a futuristic perspective on death. The writing style is described as clever, deceptively easy to read, and playful, with different voices and narratives interlocking to create echoes and resonances throughout history. The book delves into the arbitrary nature of history, narrativity, and belief, with a predominant darkly comic mood and a variety of writing styles that showcase Barnes' writing talent.
THEY PUT THE BEHEMOTHS in the hold along with the rhinos, the hippos and the elephants. It was a sensible decision to use them as ballast; but you can imagine the stench. And there was no-one to muck ...- #7
Save:In "Vile Bodies" by Evelyn Waugh, readers are transported to the post-World War I era where the Bright Young Things of Mayfair navigate a world filled with parties, satire, and a sense of impending doom. The central characters, Adam and Nina, find themselves amidst a whirlwind of events and secondary characters, leading to a fragmented yet enjoyable narrative. Waugh's writing style blends humor, satire, and a dark undercurrent, offering a glimpse into the frivolous yet complex lives of the upper class.
The book delves into themes of class, frivolity, satire, and a mix of innocence and sophistication among the Bright Young Things, providing a snapshot of a generation living in the aftermath of war while indulging in capricious escapades. Waugh's witty and satirical approach, along with the vivid assortment of characters and jigsaw of amusing situations, creates a narrative that oscillates between funny, bitter, and reflective, ultimately capturing the essence of a society on the brink of change.
With Asiatic resignation Father Rothschild S.J. put down his suitcase in the corner of the bar and went on deck. (It was a small suitcase of imitation crocodile hide. The initials stamped on it in Got... - #8
Save:'Lucky Jim' by Kingsley Amis is a humorous novel set in a university environment, following the misadventures of Jim Dixon, a history professor who despises his job and the academic world he is a part of. The story delves into the comedic situations Dixon finds himself in, from dealing with his colleagues and friends to navigating relationships and social expectations. The writing style is described as clever, British, and filled with creative humor that captures the essence of academic life in the 1950s.
“THEY made a silly mistake, though,” the Professor of History said, and his smile, as Dixon watched, gradually sank beneath the surface of his features at the memory. “After the interval we did a litt... - #9
Save:Put Out More Flags by Evelyn Waugh is a satirical novel set during the early days of World War II, focusing on the reactions and behaviors of the British upper class society. The novel follows characters like Basil Seal, who navigates through the chaos of the war with opportunism and mischief, while providing a darkly humorous and cultured outlook on the societal changes brought by the wartime circumstances. The plot is somewhat desultory, with an ensemble cast adapting to the challenges of wartime England in their own unique ways, all underpinned by Waugh's sharp satirical style and sophisticated misanthropy.
In the week which preceded the outbreak of the Second World War—days of surmise and apprehension which cannot, without irony, be called the last days of peace—and on the Sunday morning when all doubts... - #10
Save:A Fraction of the Whole by Steve Toltz is a rollicking and epic novel that follows the lives of the Dean family, focusing on the complex relationship between the eccentric father Martin, infamous criminal uncle Terry, and the reflective son Jasper. The book is filled with bizarre plots, sharp twists, and a mix of black humor and heartbreak, offering a unique combination of adventurous storytelling and deep humanistic tragedy. Set in Australia but with detours to Thailand, the novel delves into themes of family dynamics, misanthropy, philosophy, and the complexities of human relationships, all wrapped in a package of outrageous characters and unpredictable plot developments.
I’ve been asked the same question again and again. Everyone wants to know the same thing: What was Terry Dean like as a child? They expect tales of kiddy violence and corruption in the heart of an inf...
