James Naughtie, a significant voice in British radio from 1994 to 2015, continues to engage audiences as the host of BBC Radio Four’s Bookclub. Renowned for his engaging interviews and coverage of current affairs, Naughtie also authors various works, including spy thrillers and explorations of the American Dream. He is one of the judges for the Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize, which recognises the best comic fiction of 2025, reports BritPanorama.
Naughtie shared his recommendations for five novels that consistently bring him amusement. These selections highlight his appreciation for both classic and contemporary comedic literature.
The Code of the Woosters by PG Wodehouse
Wodehouse’s The Code of the Woosters is celebrated as possibly his most humorous work. The narrative begins with Bertie Wooster facing accusations of theft, leading to a series of farcical situations. Naughtie praises the novel for its intricate plotting and vibrant characters, characterising it as “comic fiction at its peak.”
Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
Naughtie highlights Catch-22 as a darker comedic work, detailing Captain Yossarian’s absurd experiences in World War II. The central conflict revolves around the paradox of sanity, with Heller’s narrative encapsulating the absurdity of war, effectively embedding the term “Catch-22” into popular discourse.
Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut
Another significant title is Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse-Five, which combines humour with anti-war sentiment. Drawing from his experiences during the Dresden bombings, Vonnegut’s storytelling captures the absurdity of human existence amid turmoil, conveying both tragedy and humour.
Scoop by Evelyn Waugh
Naughtie finds Waugh’s Scoop particularly amusing, highlighting its basis in Waugh’s own journalistic experiences in Abyssinia during the 1930s. The narrative follows William Boot’s comical adventures, providing insight into the peculiarities and perils of journalism.
Glorious Exploits by Ferdia Lennon
Lastly, Naughtie mentions Glorious Exploits by Ferdia Lennon, which won the previous year’s Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize. The novel offers a comedic portrayal of characters in ancient Sicily, using a theatrical production of Medea as its backdrop, showcasing Lennon’s unique narrative style and engaging humour.
The winners of the Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize for Comic Fiction and the Vintage Bollinger Prize will be announced on 1 December.
