The Tears of Harry Wakatipu product reviews

Jack Lasenby tells tall tales about tellers of tall tales who in turn tells tall tales of a tall tale tellers.

Got that?

NO?

Read The Tears of Harry Wakatipu and you will see just what I mean. Compulsive reading meant I was unable to put this book down willingly until I had finished it, but I do give you one word of warning: Whatever you do, never read this book on the bus. It will have you tittering, guffawing, laughing loudly, sniggering quietly and even snorting riotously.
The constant laughing causes people not to want to sit anywhere near you, and the police to be called to have you committed.
Well, maybe not that far, but people do tend to avoid someone laughing to themselves on the bus.

Lasenby has a keen eye, a good keen wit and is a master yarn teller, who gives authentic voice to the characters in the book, so much so, that every time I hear one of the characters' speak, I hear the kiwi drawl echoing throughout every syllable, word and sentence, rather than my own "Queen's English" - ok, so I go a little too far there too...

Having never read Crump, I can only guess that Lasenby satirises the works of Crump; however, I must rely on you native Kiwi speakers to add to the comments underneath just how much satire is included.

All in all, Lasenby is a fine writer, who has brought the hideous character of Harry Wakatipu to life. I look forward to aquiring Lasenby's back catalogue to enjoy the first outings of Harry Wakatipu. This book is worthy of additions to your Kiwiana collection. I recommend this book highly.