Honest review of Love Among the Chickens

by P. G. WODEHOUSE (Author)

Updated at: 05/02/2025

P.G. Wodehouse's "Love Among the Chickens" is a riotous comedy following the hapless but irrepressibly optimistic Stanley Featherstonehaugh Ukridge. Ukridge, convinced he'll strike it rich, embarks on a poultry farming venture in Dorset, dragging his long-suffering friend Jeremy Garnet along for the ride. Their chicken farm becomes a breeding ground for chaos, as Ukridge's get-rich-quick schemes predictably backfire. Amidst the feathered frenzy, Garnet finds himself smitten with the lovely Phyllis, adding a charming romantic subplot to the farcical proceedings. Wodehouse masterfully blends witty dialogue, slapstick situations, and genuine heart, showcasing his unparalleled talent for weaving together laughter and love in a delightfully absurd tale.

4.3 / 16 ratings

Review Love Among the Chickens

Oh, "Love Among the Chickens"! Let me tell you, it's a delightful romp. If you're familiar with P.G. Wodehouse, you know what to expect: a whirlwind of witty banter, charmingly hapless characters, and situations so ludicrous they're utterly irresistible. If you're new to his work, prepare for a treat! This book is a perfect introduction to his inimitable style, showcasing his genius for creating memorable characters and weaving together hilarious plots.

The story centers around the ever-optimistic, ever-scheming Stanley Featherstonehaugh Ukridge, a man whose grand plans usually collapse under the weight of their own absurdity. In this case, it's a chicken farm – a venture undertaken with as much ignorance as enthusiasm. It's not just the chickens themselves that are causing chaos, oh no. Ukridge's friend, Jeremy, gets dragged into the farcical enterprise, and his own romantic entanglement with the lovely Phyllis adds a layer of sweetness and further complications to the already-bizarre mix.

While some readers might find the balance between Ukridge's escapades and Jeremy's love story a bit uneven – as one reviewer pointed out, you come for Ukridge and might find yourself slightly sidetracked – I personally found the juxtaposition delightful. The contrast between the utter chaos of the chicken farm and the more tender moments of Jeremy's romance created a lovely rhythm to the narrative. It's like experiencing two wonderful stories running concurrently, both infused with Wodehouse's signature humour.

The writing itself is simply superb. Wodehouse's prose is crisp, elegant, and effortlessly funny. His sentences practically dance off the page, and the dialogue is so sharp and witty it's almost painful to stop reading. I found myself chuckling aloud more than once, and even more frequently smiling at the sheer inventiveness of the situations. It’s the kind of book you can curl up with on a rainy afternoon, a cup of tea at your side, and let the sheer ridiculousness wash over you. It’s the perfect antidote to stress, a guaranteed mood booster.

Now, I understand some readers might have preferences. Some might want a more focused Ukridge experience, perhaps desiring a collection of shorter stories rather than this longer, slightly more sprawling narrative. But for me, the blend of chaotic chicken-farming antics and burgeoning romance perfectly captured the essence of early Wodehouse. It's not his most polished work, but it's bursting with charm, brimming with laughter, and thoroughly captivating. It's a book I'll happily reread, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a lighthearted, witty, and utterly engaging read. Just be prepared for a delightful dose of utter, glorious chaos!

See more: Three Men In A Boat: To Say Nothing of the Dog - A Deep Dive Review