Scoop
304
Novel • Fiction
Ishmaelia • 1930s
1938
Adult
18+ years
Scoop by Evelyn Waugh is a satirical novel about journalism and the chaotic quest for sensational news. Mistakenly hired as a war correspondent due to a mix-up, unassuming nature columnist William Boot is sent to the fictional African country of Ishmaelia, where he navigates journalistic deception and fabricates stories amidst an overstated conflict, eventually becoming an accidental hero.
Humorous
Adventurous
Bittersweet
Contemplative
23,093 ratings
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Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Scoop by Evelyn Waugh is praised for its incisive satire and witty depiction of journalism's absurdities. Reviewers appreciate its sharp humor and well-drawn characters but note that its dated references might alienate contemporary readers. Despite this, the novel remains a engaging and entertaining critique of media sensationalism.
Fans of satirical journalism and witty prose will relish Evelyn Waugh’s Scoop. This novel, comparable to George Orwell’s Homage to Catalonia and P.G. Wodehouse’s Right Ho, Jeeves, appeals to readers who appreciate humor intertwined with sharp critiques of media and society. Enjoy insightful yet entertaining narratives? Scoop is your must-read.
23,093 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Scoop was inspired by Evelyn Waugh's own experiences as a journalist, drawing on his time reporting for The Times in Abyssinia (now Ethiopia) during the conflict in the 1930s.
A testament to its enduring popularity, the novel's satirical take on journalism has led to its inclusion in lists of the greatest comic novels, showcasing Waugh's sharp wit and social commentary.
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The book humorously challenges the notion of foreign correspondents as knowledgeable insiders, instead portraying them often as clueless outsiders, a theme that resonates with contemporary discussions on media coverage.
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304
Novel • Fiction
Ishmaelia • 1930s
1938
Adult
18+ years
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