Review HOW NOT TO MURDER YOUR GRUMPY by Carol E. Wyer

How Not To Murder Your Grumpy by Carol E. Wyer
Published by Safkhet Publishing
Publication Date: June 1, 2013
ISBN-10 1908208163
ISBN-13 978-1908208163
Pages: 106
Review Copy from: Author and Providence Book Promotions
Edition: Kindle
My Rating: 4

Synopsis:
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 humor. 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.

My Thoughts and Opinion:
I was first introduced to this author when I found her blog, Facing 50 with Humor. So when she contacted me to read and review her 1st book, exactly 2 years ago, Mini Skirts & Laughter Lines, I knew it would be enjoyable and funny, which it was.

Fast forward to a few months ago when I received an email asking if I would read and review her latest book, How Not To Murder Your Grumpy. When I read the synopsis, my first thought was, this is perfect! Over the past few months my husband (or as Carol has renamed the species, Old Grumpys) has been talking about when he plans to retire and I have to be honest, anxiety has set in thinking what will he do all day every day, my peaceful days will be no longer, will he be underfoot.

In How Not To Murder Your Grumpy, the author, has listed many activities, from A-Z, that one can be involved with to fill the days. Some are obvious, some I would never have thought of and some are down right hysterical. Each chapter, a different letter, has many suggestions to keep a Grumpy occupied. What I found funny were the author’s descriptions, dry humor editorial comments and riddles.

For example, on archery. A description of the sport is given and then…….

Archery is one of the most ancient sports known to mankind. In Ancient times and the medieval period, this activity was used for protecting people from enemies and for hunting wild animals. Today, it is regarded as a recreational activity or sport, and is looked upon as a way to improve concentration, mental strength, and precision…..where was I? Oh yes, sorry, I was thinking about Kevin Costner in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and got distracted.
Question: What did the lustful maiden say to the handsome archer? Answer: You make me quiver.

And that is just one of many descriptions that I was laughing at. And I had 25 more letters to get through. And 700 distractions hobbies to occupy my Grumpy for when the time comes. Yes 700! She found 700 activities!

This book will definitely be put in an easy accessible location and, I’m sure, will get much use once my husband leaves his office for the last time. It just might have saved him from a justifiable murder.

I recommend this if you are looking for a light read, full of humor and laughter and/or looking for a new pastime. Full of levity, amusement and witticism. I am looking forward to reading her next book, Just Add Spice, as I am sure it will contain more of the same.