What's-His-Name   By: George Barr McCutcheon (1866-1928)

"What's-His-Name" by George Barr McCutcheon is a delightful novel that captures the essence of adventure, comedy, and unexpected romance. Set in the picturesque countryside of England, this story follows the misadventures of a young American protagonist.

The book starts off with a sense of mystery as the main character arrives in a small English village without any recollection of his identity or past. Branded as "What's-His-Name" by the villagers due to his memory loss, the plot unfolds as he embarks on a journey to unravel his true identity. McCutcheon cleverly weaves humor into the narrative, providing the readers with a light-hearted and enjoyable reading experience.

Throughout his quest, "What's-His-Name" encounters a cast of eccentric yet endearing characters, each contributing to the overall charm of the story. From the quirky village folk to the sophisticated aristocrats, the author successfully creates a vivid and captivating world that readers will find themselves fully immersed in.

One of the standout elements of this book is McCutcheon's ability to tackle romance in a refreshingly unexpected way. Instead of following the predictable path, the author introduces romantic tensions and unanticipated love interests that keep the readers guessing until the very end. This adds an extra layer of excitement to the story, making it unpredictable and engrossing.

Another commendable aspect of "What's-His-Name" is McCutcheon's skillful portrayal of the English countryside. The vivid descriptions of rolling hills, quaint cottages, and charming gardens paint a beautiful backdrop for the events that unfold. This attention to detail creates a captivating atmosphere that enhances the reader's experience, making them feel as though they are part of the story.

Although "What's-His-Name" is an engrossing read, it does have a few minor flaws. The pacing of the story could be slow at times, particularly during certain sections where the plot seemed to lose momentum. Additionally, some characters lacked depth, leaving the readers longing for more comprehensive development.

Overall, "What's-His-Name" is an entertaining novel that combines humor, mystery, and romance to create an engaging tale. George Barr McCutcheon's storytelling skills shine through as he crafts a charming world filled with amusing characters and surprising twists. Despite its minor flaws, this book is undoubtedly an enjoyable read that will captivate readers from start to finish.

First Page:

Two men were standing in front of the Empire Theatre on Broadway, at the outer edge of the sidewalk, amiably discussing themselves in the first person singular... Continue reading book >>