Michael Frayn's classic is set in the crossword and nature notes department of an obscure national newspaper during the declining years of Fleet Street, where John Dyson dreams wistfully of fame and the gentlemanly life - until one day his great chance of glory at last arrives.

'The most delightful, sophisticated novel; Michael Frayn is probably England's funniest writer.' The New York Times

'A gem of a comic book. It's life a brilliant, fast game of poker with the author holding all the best hands, and the ghosts of Wodehouse and Waugh whispering advice over his shoulder.' Vogue