Fun and quick read. Would suggest leaving the dictionary bit to read a little at a time. Read it straight thru and found that it made me a bit less receptive for our author's humour. There are possibly one too many "couldn't be bothered" or "this is possibly a lie" for some jargon definitions. But as stated, this certainly not the OED. ( )

The Septic's Companion came to me via of Early Reviewer's but is not listed on my list. I do want to review this, though, because it is essential reading for anyone who has been to England or plans to go. It is mixed with humor and also knowledge of things you may have wondered about. It is small, small enough, in fact to carry with you to read when you want to be amused. It is also full of comments that could start a conversation with anyone when wondering what next to say. If you love language, then by all means, don't miss this slightly poke at England. ( )

this little book is pretty darned useful as a little dictionary of contemporary English slang, because it captures not only the translation but all the nuance attached. added it to my reference books on language, for when i'm writing British characters. but beyond that, the guy is really funny - about British foibles, various terms, and last but not least himself. so this too-slim volume (hey, take a note: there goes the raison d-'etre of that "mercifully brief") would still be a keeper even if the reader wasn't all that interested in the slang. i mean, really, there's slang, and then there's slanging, and the author's got a pretty good line on both. ( )

An excellent and very humorous book. excellent companion piece for fans of All things British! ( )

I LOVED this book. I don't normally read dictionaries, but I couldn't resist this one once I started reading. 'The Septic's Companion' is an irreverant look at all things British. The first half of the book talks about history, geography, weights and measures - you know, the dull stuff you usually skim through in other books in order to get to the important parts. Don't do that! The first half is unbelievably funny while still providing the reader with a cultural knowledge base. From how to drive on the 'wrong' side of the road to the proper way to buy a round of drinks, this book is both informative and entertaining. My favorite chapters explained the politics and geography of the United Kingdom - and while it's a proven fact that politics and geography are two of the most boring subjects on Earth, the author has presented the basics in a way that's easy to remember and surprisingly humorous. The latter half of the book is devoted to a dictionary of terms (like 'brolly' and 'squiffy') and phrases (such as 'off one's onion' and the more traditional 'Bob's your uncle'). One of the funniest books I've ever read - 'The Septic's Companion' is a definite keeper. If you have ever read a British book, or are planning a trip to the U.K. (or have ever THOUGHT of anything British), you should get this book! ( )