The Story

Jeremy Garnet, a moderately successful novelist, is trying to enjoy a quiet seaside holiday to write his next book. His peace is shattered by the arrival of Stanley Featherstonehaugh Ukridge—a larger-than-life, eternally broke optimist with a grand plan. Ukridge has decided to make his fortune by running a chicken farm, and he strong-arms the reluctant Jeremy into being his partner. What follows is pure, joyful chaos. The chickens have a mind of their own, the local professor (and his lovely daughter) are less than thrilled with their new neighbors, and every money-making scheme seems to backfire spectacularly. At its heart, it's a story about Jeremy trying to navigate this farmyard disaster while also pursuing a romance that seems just as complicated.

Why You Should Read It

This is Wodehouse at his most cheerfully anarchic. Ukridge is a glorious character—all bluster and big ideas, completely unaware of his own incompetence. You can't help but laugh at his unwavering confidence. Jeremy is the perfect straight man, and his dry observations on the mess around him are priceless. The romance is sweet and funny, never mushy. It’s a book that doesn't take itself seriously for a second. It’s just a delightfully silly, incredibly kind-hearted romp that makes you feel good. The humor comes from the characters and their hopeless situations, not from mean-spirited jokes.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who needs a break from heavy, serious stories. If you love classic British comedy, eccentric characters, and stories where the biggest crisis is a runaway hen, you'll adore this. It’s also a great introduction to Wodehouse if the world of Jeeves and Wooster feels a bit daunting. Think of it as a literary sitcom—easy to pick up, packed with laughs, and guaranteed to leave you smiling. A genuine comfort read.