Would You Believe It? (copy 2)

Ah, 1974—a year when flared trousers and questionable hairstyles reigned supreme, and Hodder & Stoughton Ltd boldly published a literary masterpiece (or perhaps a curious misfire) titled "Would You Believe it?" This book is co-authored by a veritable cadre of literary mercenaries—Dick Girling, Derek Davies, Rick Sanders, and Deidre Sanders—who clearly had a fondness for collaboration, or perhaps were just caught in an unfortunate binding accident.

Upon first glance, one is irresistibly drawn to the title, which seems to ask a question while simultaneously raising an eyebrow. What exactly would one be expected to believe? That four distinct authors could produce an unblemished narrative without stepping on each other’s toes? That the book might contain the secrets of the universe—or, more likely, a few ramblings about the complexities of everyday life, all wrapped up in delightful absurdity? The possibilities are as endless as the lengths to which the authors might go to convince you of their sanity.

Within the pages, readers might stumble upon an eclectic collection of anecdotes, observations, and perhaps even the occasional existential crisis (because what’s the 1970s without a little bit of soul-searching?). The prose dances erratically, sometimes resembling the undulating movement of a particularly enthusiastic disco dancer—at other times, it might feel like a discussion in the corner of a dimly lit pub after three pints too many. The charm of this book lies in its unpredictability, akin to a surprise party where half the guests forgot the date.

What could one expect from such a peculiar quartet of authors? It’s rumoured that they each took turns writing chapters, not unlike a literary game of Hot Potato. From Dick’s dry wit to Deidre’s heart-on-sleeve musings, you may find yourself surprised at the stylistic whiplash that comes from shifting between four dramatically different voices. Each chapter has the potential to contain insightful commentary on the human condition or, conversely, a lengthy discourse on the merits of custard vs. cream as dessert toppings.

The book’s cover is a relic of its time, featuring bold typography and a slightly psychedelic colour scheme reminiscent of a 1970s wallpaper disaster. One must wonder if the design team was attempting to capture the essence of the then-burgeoning counterculture or merely indulging in a fondness for vibrant colours that leave one questioning their life choices. Either way, it sets the stage for an adventure that teeters on the precipice of brilliance and bewilderment.

As for the plot—or lack thereof—one can only speculate. Perhaps it’s a meditation on the absurdities of modern life, framed by the myriad of human experiences that bind us all together in a shared sense of bewilderment. Or it could simply be a series of baffling musings that make you question not only the text before you but the very fabric of reality itself. Could it be a foreshadowing of the impending chaos of the next decade? Or perhaps just a good excuse to escape into a world where anything goes?

Condition: This tome is used, which means it carries the delightful patina of age—dog-eared pages, the occasional coffee stain (or perhaps something more mysterious), and the faint scent of nostalgia. Each crease tells a story, perhaps of an enthusiastic reader who once clutched it tightly while pondering the meaning of life at a bus stop, or someone who just wanted to impress a date while appearing cultured. It’s a little worse for wear, but then, aren’t we all?

So, if you fancy a literary experience where the boundaries of sanity blur and the absurd reigns supreme, "Would You Believe it?" might just be the perfect addition to your collection. A book that dares you to question everything while simultaneously laughing in the face of reason—what more could you ask for? Grab your copy from Crappy Old Books today, and prepare to be delighted, confused, and perhaps even a bit charmed by the chaos of four creative minds colliding in the most unexpected ways.

This is the second copy of this book, assuming the first copy is still in stock.

Keep browsing: See more Humour books Other books by Dick Girling, Derek Davies, Rick Sanders Deidre Sanders