Let's be clear: this isn't a novel. Parodies of the works of English & American authors, vol. II is exactly what the title promises. Edited by Walter Hamilton, it's a curated anthology of satirical poems and pieces written in the 19th century. The 'plot' is the journey through different literary styles, each one twisted just enough to be funny. You'll read a take on Tennyson's epic, flowing verse that suddenly gets bogged down in absurd details. You'll find a parody of Poe's gloomy, rhythmic 'The Raven' that turns the whole thing into something wonderfully silly. It's a literary hall of mirrors, where every reflection is a grinning, slightly distorted version of a famous face.

Why You Should Read It

First, it's genuinely funny. The humor has lasted over a century because it's smart—it comes from a place of deep familiarity. These parodists had to know the original works inside and out to mimic them so well. Reading it feels like you're in on a brilliant inside joke with the wittiest people from 1885.

More than that, it's a refreshing reminder that even the most revered artists weren't above a little ribbing. It humanizes these monumental figures. After reading a spot-on parody of Longfellow's earnestness or Dickens's sentimentality, you go back to the originals with fresh eyes and maybe a smile. It doesn't diminish the classics; it just adds another layer to our enjoyment of them.

Final Verdict

This one is perfect for classic literature lovers with a sense of humor. If you've slogged through Evangeline or pondered In Memoriam and thought, 'I see why this is important, but wow, it's heavy,' this book is your palate cleanser. It's also great for writers, as a masterclass in style and voice. A word of caution: you'll get a lot more out of it if you're already somewhat familiar with the authors being parodied. Think of it as the bonus features on a DVD of literary history—not the main event, but a surprisingly entertaining and insightful companion that makes you appreciate the whole show even more.