The Wrong Box by Robert Louis Stevenson is a comedic novel that follows the mishaps of two elderly brothers who become entangled in a series of farcical events surrounding a valuable tontine. The story is filled with eccentric characters and absurd situations, creating a light-hearted and entertaining read.

Stevenson's witty writing style and clever plot twists keep the reader engaged throughout the novel, building suspense and laughter along the way. The humor is dry and sarcastic, adding a sense of whimsy to the darkly comic tale.

While the plot may be somewhat convoluted at times, Stevenson's skillful storytelling and vivid character development make up for any shortcomings. The quirky characters, such as the bumbling lawyer Morris and the conniving doctor Finsbury, bring the story to life and add depth to the narrative.

Overall, The Wrong Box is a delightful romp that combines humor, mystery, and a touch of farce. Fans of classic British comedy and readers looking for a lighthearted escape will thoroughly enjoy this charming novel.

Book Description:

The Wrong Box is a comedy about the ending of a tontine (a tontine is an arrangement whereby a number of young people subscribe to a fund which is then closed and invested until all but one of the subscribers have died. That last subscriber then receives the whole of the proceeds). The story involves the last two such survivors and their relations, a train crash, missing uncles, surplus dead bodies and innocent bystanders. A farce really.