Oxford Dictionary of Humorous Quotations (5th edition)

In his introductory essay, the editor, Gyles Brandreth, lists five characteristics of a quotable quotation. Among these is, “do you want to share it with others”. On this criterion, this fifth edition of the Oxford Dictionary of Humorous Quotations scores highly. This is not a book to read alone. If you do, you will find yourself making endless notes of lines that you have to pass on to family or friends.

Brandreth is editing the dictionary for the first time – the previous four editions were edited by Ned Sherrin (who died in 2007) – and according to the dust...