Ladies, your “visits “ discussing books is a breath of fresh air in a world that needs to be reminded that there is beauty, good and enjoyment ready to be discovered if we just broaden our view. Thank you both for welcoming us into your home to share a cup of tea and the love of books. I look forward to receiving your notifications. I know that a visit of enjoyment with Miranda and sometimes Ms. Donna, is at hand. Best wishes.
Hello Miranda and Donna, A great discussion! It gave me a chance to laugh again at some of the scenes in the book that are so funny. This book is definitely my comfort book read - it was given to me as part of a Persephone "A Book A Month' gift. I loved it, so on a trip to London (I live in Australia) I especially made my way to the Persephone shop to get the two follow on books. If ever there was a film adaptation I can picture Miranda Hart playing Barbara Buncle. It is such a comfort to be part of your Book Club - thank you!
@@MirandaMills Hello, I ordered the book - Miss Buncle's Book and tomorrow I shall Receive the Nigel Slater book, The Christmas Chronicles. Thank you so much for introducing these two books. The latter was on your choice of Christmas readings for 2021. I do not post many comments, but I enjoy you and your mother's videos very much. Thank you.
Thank you again, Miranda and Donna!! Not only for the wonderful recommendation and for including my voice message, but also for your incredible and comforting Channel and Book club. Nowadays it is one of my favourite things in my life 🥰
Hello Miranda and Donna, I know it’s been a year but I am so excited to find your delightful discussion on my favorite comfort read. I am a librarian and years ago I stumbled on this book in a box of donated books. It was an early print and well loved so not suited for the library and I could take it home. How happy this book makes me and how wonderful to see it discussed here with joy and respect. If you are still looking for a similar read, I highly recommend Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbons. Thank you so much and I look forward to follow your channel and since I just found it, it will give me hours of fun to catch up in the weeks to come…perfect for hot and humid summer weather in South Carolina.
This was such a fun discussion today. This is my favorite bookclub choice so far. I loved every page of it. Fabulous characters. A couple of my favorite scenes were when Mrs Featherstone Hogg held that meeting and how hilarious that it got so out of her control. Also when Barbara tried to convince Sarah that she wrote the book after the twins were kidnapped. And that no one even considered Barbara as the writer. Loved the ending too. Anyways thank you for bringing this author to our attention. I'm looking forward to reading more of her books. Til next time, have a great weekend! ☕🍰💐👍💕
Hi Miranda and Donna. Wonderful discussion and reading choice for February. I agree with so many of the comments regarding this lovely, chuckle of a book. Miss Buncle was a fun romp through an English village. You and your mom feel like family to my daughter and I by now. We have been introduced to such wonderful literature through you. I can only say you have enriched our lives, and we look forward to many more good reads and discussion. Wishing you both joy.
Well all I can say is if a book has made anybody laugh as much as these two ladies are laughing out loud over the Bunckle book then it must be great! I hope I can find them!
Miranda and Donna, thank you for another enjoyable book discussion! Chelle, Suleita, Jason, Cristina and Jenneth, I loved hearing your comments about this book. Sometimes one needs a fun light hearted read and this one fits the bill. Like others, I found the ending delightful. All the loose ends were wrapped up nicely and topped with the proverbial bow. I can't wait to read the rest of the trilogy. I'm beyond thrilled that The Enchanted April will be April's book. Its my own favorite comfort read and I look forward to reading it again with this group. Thanks for such great book choices month after month!
Hello Miranda, Thank you for the fab discussion of Miss Buncle's Book. The various contributions were so skillfully woven together in the video; thank you for including me. I shall re-read the book again before February ends as walking through Silverstream brings cheer and comfort (something that is needed in these troubled times). I am so grateful to have your RUclips channel in my reading life - it is like stepping into magical portal (like C.S. Lewis' wardrobe) that takes me to new and enduring worlds of comforting and timeless literature. All the best, Jason
That’s so kind of you to say, Jason! Thank you so much again for your fabulous contribution to our discussion. Comfort reading is definitely needed more than ever right now! Hope you enjoy your reread 😊📖
Wonderful book club episode, thank you both. I absolutely loved the book, not one I would have found by myself I admit! My bank balance is breathing a sigh of relief that you will be reducing your output…….I am wishing you well with your endeavours even though you will be missed.
I recently read Miss Buncle’s book for the first time and really loved it. i read the second book but have yet to read the third. It was fun to watch your mom laughing at all the humor. Cheers! From USA
Thank you so much for introducing me to D E Stevenson! What a talented writer! This book had me laughing out loud. What a delight! Have already started reading the sequel!
I enjoyed this book club discussion as much as I enjoyed the book! My mom has also thoroughly enjoyed this trilogy. Thank you, Miranda and Donna! 🥰📚 🇬🇧
Hello Miranda and Donna🥰......Miranda I had to take an early lunch because I’ve been anxiously waiting this discussion all week..I LOVE!!!! D.E. Stevenson this was one of the few books that I could easily follow with audio alone when I was not able to have my kindle in hand... and I will be getting the physical book and all the other books ...I loved so many parts in this book but when Mrs. Featherstone Hogg was talking to the Colonel I couldn’t stop laughing 😂😂😂... I loved how Steven was shamed into being a better person to Margaret and his kids...I loved loved Sally and I was so happy she was the one that ended up with the Vicar...Miranda I’m so happy that I got so many books of D.E. Stevenson to read🥰....You are AWESOME!!!!!🥰
That makes me happy, Kiki! There are lots of D.E.Stevenson books to enjoy too! This really is such a joyful book. I’m so glad Sally ended up with the Vicar too!😀📚❤️
The book was a joy to read and I had as much fun listening you too speaking and giggling about the the book. I was captured from the beginning by the buns delivery explained by Mrs Goldsmith and it has been a delight after the other. Every character is special in its own way. And the transformation of Barbara by cloths and the meeting at Mrs Featherstone house were my top moments. Thank you!
I love the Miss Buncle books - My nanna had Miss Buncle Married and that was the first of these I read (that was over) 30 years ago. My sister and I enjoyed it so much, we hunted down a copy of Miss Buncle’s Book not long afterwards. I was delighted to find the entire set of three when visiting the US a few years ago and had lots of fun rereading them in February.
This was just so fun! I laughed so much. Miss Buncle's Book was one of my earliest British (non-children's) novels in my 20s, and I will always remember how delighted I was by it (and by so many other DE Stevenson books since then!). Thank you Miranda and Donna for the joy! I'm very much looking forward to the coming Comfort Book Club reads. Thank you for your hard work on the videos, Miranda. Any videos you post are a gift!
What a wonderful video again, Miranda and Donna. I thoroughly enjoyed watching it having read along and found so much of your commentary (and others') had me laughing as I remembered the story. I loved 'Miss Buncle's Book'-what a charming read- and I am now so eager to continue reading more of D.E. Stevenson's novels, as every page was indeed a comfort! Also, thank you for letting us know all the upcoming books for the Comfort Book Club. Every one you mentioned are either favourites already or sitting waiting on my shelves to be read. Thank you again for another lovely video.
I found myself smiling throughout the reading of this book and today I found myself smiling through your entire video. "Miss Buncle's Book" was delightful and quite ingenious. It was a satire of village life and the world of publishing without being mean spirited. My favorite character was Barbara. I loved that she was completely without guile and just wrote about her neighbors exactly the way she saw them with her only motive to have enough money to live on (without having to keep chickens). Everyone around her created the big fuss. I'm so glad she had the happy ending she deserved - married, successful and a bit more glamorous. While reading this book, I pictured one of those madcap movies from the 1930's. Very much looking forward to the future bookclub selections - so happy we will be reading "Emma" and "The Enchanted April"! Thank you Miranda, Donna and all who recorded messages!!💕
Thanks so much for your lovely comment, Nancy! I love Barbara too, and her happy ending is so satisfying as you say! I’m so glad you’re looking forward to future CBC reads!
I discovered your channel about a month ago and have enjoyed every bit of it, including some lovely recommendations. Not to worry about posting just once a week; I’m glad you are taking care of yourself. Looking forward to your videos and blog/social media posts as they come. Thank you for your part in new discoveries and many happy hours reading.
What a great fun time giggling with you through the hilarious scenes all over again!! Thank you for including my message alongside the other readers, I've been so enjoying reading D.E. Stevenson, an author altogether new to me and have just finished Miss Bun the Baker's Daughter directly after Miss Buncle's Book! Sending you both the warmest wishes and supportive thoughts for all your endeavours Miranda! I will look forward to seeing you each Friday! 🌷
This was my first time reading along and I absolutely loved the book! I will be reading more of D.E. Stevenson soon. One thing that struck me was that Barbara felt that she was much different from her fictional counterpart. No one who read the book noticed this however, so I do think Barbara was a bit unreliable when it came to how she views herself. Mr. Abbot was the only one who noticed her personality difference during the dinner, but it would be normal to be nervous in that situation. My favorite part was the ending when she discovered that the vicar was in fact rich and she was disappointed to not have come up with that plot point.
Oh, what a perfect joy to see you both again! Your laughter and friendliness are a tonic in these times. A sparkling review of a fabulous book. A new found friend I will pick up again very soon, even if just to read the odd paragraph. Absolutely marvellous picks for our future reads. I can't wait to get started. Lots of luck with your new endeavors, Miranda. I hope they work out beautifully for you. Sxx
I'm nodding along vigorously in agreement with everyone's observations here, both oral and written. I did especially like the graveyard scene, the Snowdens keen to keep mom tamped down. I also enjoyed how the twins, identical right down to their clothing, flummoxed everyone, nobody quite sure who was the boy and who, the girl. This was one of those reads that unfolded quite cinematically in my mind's eye, and the characters are so unforgettable. I'm listening to Yours Cheerfully, and can just imagine Emmy and Bunty giggling over novel. Or better yet, Miss Buncle on staff of Woman's Day! l'm looking forward to reading more of Stevenson's work. Not to mention, every time I fall in love with a Persephone book, my nose is back in their catalogue looking for more. Thank you ever so much for this fun read! Wishing you both a wonderful weekend.
Thank you for the introduction to D.E. Stevenson. I recalled you mentioning her before and was so delighted with this book club selection. Like many others, I laughed aloud throughout the novel and enjoyed its many layers. I am eager to scoop up the sequels! Thank you, as always, for the thoughtful content that you produce. It is such a welcome refreshment whenever your time allows.
Hi Miranda and Donna! What an absolute delight this video was! ♥ I just finished my first D.E. Stevenson novel, Vittoria Cottage, which I received for Christmas. It was after hearing your wonderful comments on her books that I decided to give her a go, and how glad I am that I did! Her writing has the same gentle, cozy feel that Miss Read, Jan Karon and Elizabeth Goudge have, at least for me. And I found myself laughing out loud so often through the story...now I shall go on and add Miss Buncle's Book to my reading list as well. I'd love if you had any other recommendations for authors and/or books for those of us who enjoy Stevenson, Miss Read, Goudge, etc. They are such comforting writers! Thank you for another splendid video...stay cozy! ♥
This was a reread multiple times for me. I love this book and like one of the people who commented on the video, it makes me laugh every time! I love this book club! Thank you!
This was a completely new author for me and I had no idea what to expect. I absolutely loved it and was laughing out loud - I will recommend it and I think it may be a favourite read and discovery of this year. I think D.E.Stevenson was very clever and way ahead of her time, as well as original and providing an insight into women's lives and lack of choice during those times. I must read the next two books! There were so many funny parts, from the breakfast rolls to the Colonel to Mrs Featherstone Hogg (and wasn't her husband just brilliant?!). I'm excited for the upcoming choices too. I recently acquired a copy of the Enchanted April as I've always meant to read it and have been saving it up for April - and being the book club choice for that month is great. A lovely end to a difficult week - thank you.
That’s wonderful you enjoyed your introduction to D E Stevenson so much, Ruth! And great that you already have The Enchanted April lined up & ready to go! Xxx
I have been a fan of D. E. Stevenson since a friend introduced me to her books almost 40 years ago, and I think I've read them all at least twice. I didn't get a chance to reread this one ahead of the discussion, but hearing you and Donna share the delightful moments and characters of Miss Buncle's Book has only made me want to find it immediately! I will miss your Tuesday videos but certainly understand and will treasure the ones that you share on Fridays. Thanks!
I finally received this book and read it and loved it. Miss Buncle Book is so so funny and I will enjoy re-reading it again in the near future. I enjoyed watching this book discussion as well and enjoy the comments and voice messages about it. So joyful, thank you Miranda and Donna.
Hello Miranda and Donna! I loved Miss Buncle’s Book. I think its been my favorite comfort read so far. My favorite scene from the book was the meeting......”pause for applause”. I laughed all the way through it. Thank you again for another great comfort read!💕
Hi Miranda and Donna, I absolutely loved reading Miss Buncle and my favourite character was Dorcas, I felt like she was D E Stevenson's inner voice of down-to-earthness and common sense popping in every now and then. So looking forward to the next book which I accidentally gave to my husband as part of his Christmas present. I naughtily told him that, co-incidentally, it was a Comfort Book Club choice for next month and was delighted when he thoroughly recommended me borrowing it as it was such a good read. Happy reading, Teresa 📚
I loved Dorcas too! There was indeed a lot of humour in her common sense and thoughts on Miss Buncle when she was in a writing frantically phase! So glad your husband enjoyed Inspector Chopra! We are looking forward to the discussion at the end of the month.
I very much enjoyed the humour in the book. So clever how DE Stevenson has life mimicking the book and her real life characters changing as the book develops. A great choice for the Comfort Book Club and much needed light hearted diversion from current events. Also a lively and happy discussion and I enjoyed the voice message contributions.
This book was so fun to read. Thank you for introducing me to D. E. Stevenson. I have to say I loved the relationship and loyalty between Dorcus and Miss Buncle, sweet and humorous at the same time. A wonderful group of characters. I loved reading this at the end of my day. Wishing the best to you and your new projects! 💗
I just discovered your channel. The title caught my eye as it mentioned one of my favorite books from last year. I had given it 5 stars and noted that, “I loved it!” In my little reading notebook I always keep. You two are delightful and I so look forward to watching more of you videos.
I just came back from the bookstore with more of your recommendations - so many good books I wouldn’t have known about otherwise. I appreciate all the work you put into your videos and enjoy them all so much!
Darn, wish my notification would have popped up the day before this. Thought it was tomorrow. Oh well, I’ll watch the replay tomorrow. I’m sure it will be enjoyable.
I just googled the book and found a used one at Amazon for only 1 pound in my language (German) 🤗! I immediately ordered it and I am going to really enjoy this funny story although I am a bit late to the party! 😄
Thanks for recommending D.E. Stevenson's work - I started reading her work after you mentioned this book in a video you made a while ago and have read a few of her other works since. I've enjoyed them all so much. To answer your question about other books which feature a character writing a book the first one which came to mind is O. Douglas's Ann and Her Mother. It is about a daughter (Ann) writing her mother's biography.
Really enjoy this discussion it’s makes me want to read it now . Sounds very funny . Love to read Emma haven’t read it which is weird cause I love Jane Austen . I would love to read as well a sky painted gold as well sounds interesting . Thanks so much for the video.🙂
Greetings...I did not have a chance to read Miss Buncle's Book in time for the book club but have since purchased it on your recommendation and I absolutely love it! Thank you so much. I now have a list of her other books that I would like to read. Cheers from Canada.
I so loved this book, an waxed on about it to anyone who would listen. I so loved the obvious juxtapositions that Barbara wrote, thinking she had disguised everyone
Hi Miranda and Donna After wracking my brain I remembered in The Help Skeeter writes a book using people from her surroundings home. It gets pretty crazy. 🤓
Thank you so much for the recommendation for this absolutely hilarious and wonderfully written novel. I listened to the audio and although it was really engaging the way it was narrated I just have to buy a physical copy to read it "properly" I am not a huge fan of kindle or audio ,So what is the next one?
I have read again Enchanted April quite recently so I have ordered two Laura Woods books instead . You get me reading different books thank you again !
I so very enjoyed Mrs. Buncle's Book. What fun to find series about a small English village reminding me very much of Miss Read books. But with the fun twist of the village trying to discover who John Smith is. Wonderful! Thank you for this recommendation! Enchanted April is a favorite of mine so I will be reading with you too in April. Have a wonderful weekend Miranda and Donna!
Ladies, your “visits “ discussing books is a breath of fresh air in a world that needs to be reminded that there is beauty, good and enjoyment ready to be discovered if we just broaden our view.
Thank you both for welcoming us into your home to share a cup of tea and the love of books.
I look forward to receiving your notifications. I know that a visit of enjoyment with Miranda and sometimes Ms. Donna, is at hand.
Best wishes.
That is very kind - thank you for your lovely comment! Xxx
Hello Miranda and Donna, A great discussion! It gave me a chance to laugh again at some of the scenes in the book that are so funny. This book is definitely my comfort book read - it was given to me as part of a Persephone "A Book A Month' gift. I loved it, so on a trip to London (I live in Australia) I especially made my way to the Persephone shop to get the two follow on books. If ever there was a film adaptation I can picture Miranda Hart playing Barbara Buncle. It is such a comfort to be part of your Book Club - thank you!
That’s a lovely story of how you obtained your copies, Paulette! Thanks so much for sharing and your kind words.
Books and tea, a wonderful combination tripled into perfection by two charming ladies. Thank you.
That’s very kind! Thank you!
@@MirandaMills Hello, I ordered the book - Miss Buncle's Book and tomorrow I shall Receive the Nigel Slater book, The Christmas Chronicles. Thank you so much for introducing these two books. The latter was on your choice of Christmas readings for 2021. I do not post many comments, but I enjoy you and your mother's videos very much. Thank you.
Thank you again, Miranda and Donna!! Not only for the wonderful recommendation and for including my voice message, but also for your incredible and comforting Channel and Book club. Nowadays it is one of my favourite things in my life 🥰
That’s so lovely of you to say, Cristina! Thank you very much, and for your fantastic voice message which contributed to our discussion 😊💕
@@MirandaMills I feel honoured 🥰
Hello Miranda and Donna, I know it’s been a year but I am so excited to find your delightful discussion on my favorite comfort read. I am a librarian and years ago I stumbled on this book in a box of donated books. It was an early print and well loved so not suited for the library and I could take it home. How happy this book makes me and how wonderful to see it discussed here with joy and respect. If you are still looking for a similar read, I highly recommend Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbons. Thank you so much and I look forward to follow your channel and since I just found it, it will give me hours of fun to catch up in the weeks to come…perfect for hot and humid summer weather in South Carolina.
This was such a fun discussion today. This is my favorite bookclub choice so far. I loved every page of it. Fabulous characters. A couple of my favorite scenes were when Mrs Featherstone Hogg held that meeting and how hilarious that it got so out of her control. Also when Barbara tried to convince Sarah that she wrote the book after the twins were kidnapped. And that no one even considered Barbara as the writer. Loved the ending too. Anyways thank you for bringing this author to our attention. I'm looking forward to reading more of her books. Til next time, have a great weekend! ☕🍰💐👍💕
So glad you enjoyed it so much, Diane! I loved those scenes too 😊💕
Hi Miranda and Donna. Wonderful discussion and reading choice for February. I agree with so many of the comments regarding this lovely, chuckle of a book. Miss Buncle was a fun romp through an English village. You and your mom feel like family to my daughter and I by now. We have been introduced to such wonderful literature through you. I can only say you have enriched our lives, and we look forward to many more good reads and discussion. Wishing you both joy.
Thanks so much for those lovely words, Shanne!
Well all I can say is if a book has made anybody laugh as much as these two ladies are laughing out loud over the Bunckle book then it must be great! I hope I can find them!
Miranda and Donna, thank you for another enjoyable book discussion! Chelle, Suleita, Jason, Cristina and Jenneth, I loved hearing your comments about this book. Sometimes one needs a fun light hearted read and this one fits the bill. Like others, I found the ending delightful. All the loose ends were wrapped up nicely and topped with the proverbial bow. I can't wait to read the rest of the trilogy. I'm beyond thrilled that The Enchanted April will be April's book. Its my own favorite comfort read and I look forward to reading it again with this group. Thanks for such great book choices month after month!
Love from Spain, Faith!!!!!❤️❤️
Cristina, I felt the same as you about this book 😊 I just ordered Miss Buncle Married and The Two Mrs. Abbotts!
@@faithwentworth7906 How I understand you!! I think I'll reread it in summer as I miss the characters 🤦🏻♀️😂
That’s very kind, Faith! Thanks so much❤️📚
Hello Miranda, Thank you for the fab discussion of Miss Buncle's Book. The various contributions were so skillfully woven together in the video; thank you for including me. I shall re-read the book again before February ends as walking through Silverstream brings cheer and comfort (something that is needed in these troubled times). I am so grateful to have your RUclips channel in my reading life - it is like stepping into magical portal (like C.S. Lewis' wardrobe) that takes me to new and enduring worlds of comforting and timeless literature. All the best, Jason
That’s so kind of you to say, Jason! Thank you so much again for your fabulous contribution to our discussion. Comfort reading is definitely needed more than ever right now! Hope you enjoy your reread 😊📖
Wonderful book club episode, thank you both. I absolutely loved the book, not one I would have found by myself I admit! My bank balance is breathing a sigh of relief that you will be reducing your output…….I am wishing you well with your endeavours even though you will be missed.
What a delightful review! Love to see your mother, she is such an absolute delight. You brightened up my day!
I recently read Miss Buncle’s book for the first time and really loved it. i read the second book but have yet to read the third.
It was fun to watch your mom laughing at all the humor.
Cheers! From USA
That’s wonderful, Ginnie! Thanks so much! Enjoy The Two Mrs Abbotts!
Thank you so much for introducing me to D E Stevenson! What a talented writer! This book had me laughing out loud. What a delight! Have already started reading the sequel!
So happy you enjoyed it so much! 💕😊
I enjoyed this book club discussion as much as I enjoyed the book! My mom has also thoroughly enjoyed this trilogy. Thank you, Miranda and Donna! 🥰📚 🇬🇧
That’s lovely! Thank you very much 📚💕
Hello Miranda and Donna🥰......Miranda I had to take an early lunch because I’ve been anxiously waiting this discussion all week..I LOVE!!!! D.E. Stevenson this was one of the few books that I could easily follow with audio alone when I was not able to have my kindle in hand... and I will be getting the physical book and all the other books ...I loved so many parts in this book but when Mrs. Featherstone Hogg was talking to the Colonel I couldn’t stop laughing 😂😂😂... I loved how Steven was shamed into being a better person to Margaret and his kids...I loved loved Sally and I was so happy she was the one that ended up with the Vicar...Miranda I’m so happy that I got so many books of D.E. Stevenson to read🥰....You are AWESOME!!!!!🥰
I want to clarify the last part of my comment.... I plan on buying all the books in the Miss Buncle Series...☺️🥰
That makes me happy, Kiki! There are lots of D.E.Stevenson books to enjoy too! This really is such a joyful book. I’m so glad Sally ended up with the Vicar too!😀📚❤️
The book was a joy to read and I had as much fun listening you too speaking and giggling about the the book.
I was captured from the beginning by the buns delivery explained by Mrs Goldsmith and it has been a delight after the other. Every character is special in its own way.
And the transformation of Barbara by cloths and the meeting at Mrs Featherstone house were my top moments.
Thank you!
Thanks so much, Angela! I’m so glad you enjoyed Miss Buncle’s book so much! Yes, the new clothes were a lovely touch 😀📚❤️
I love the Miss Buncle books - My nanna had Miss Buncle Married and that was the first of these I read (that was over) 30 years ago. My sister and I enjoyed it so much, we hunted down a copy of Miss Buncle’s Book not long afterwards. I was delighted to find the entire set of three when visiting the US a few years ago and had lots of fun rereading them in February.
That’s lovely! These are really timeless books, and how nice to have found the set on holiday too.
This was just so fun! I laughed so much. Miss Buncle's Book was one of my earliest British (non-children's) novels in my 20s, and I will always remember how delighted I was by it (and by so many other DE Stevenson books since then!). Thank you Miranda and Donna for the joy! I'm very much looking forward to the coming Comfort Book Club reads. Thank you for your hard work on the videos, Miranda. Any videos you post are a gift!
So glad you enjoyed the discussion, Elizabeth! Thank you for your kind words! Xxx
What a wonderful video again, Miranda and Donna. I thoroughly enjoyed watching it having read along and found so much of your commentary (and others') had me laughing as I remembered the story. I loved 'Miss Buncle's Book'-what a charming read- and I am now so eager to continue reading more of D.E. Stevenson's novels, as every page was indeed a comfort! Also, thank you for letting us know all the upcoming books for the Comfort Book Club. Every one you mentioned are either favourites already or sitting waiting on my shelves to be read. Thank you again for another lovely video.
So happy to hear this, Angela. Thank you!
Thank you ladies for sharing this book. I added it to my wish list. This book sounds delightful.
I found myself smiling throughout the reading of this book and today I found myself smiling through your entire video. "Miss Buncle's Book" was delightful and quite ingenious. It was a satire of village life and the world of publishing without being mean spirited. My favorite character was Barbara. I loved that she was completely without guile and just wrote about her neighbors exactly the way she saw them with her only motive to have enough money to live on (without having to keep chickens). Everyone around her created the big fuss. I'm so glad she had the happy ending she deserved - married, successful and a bit more glamorous. While reading this book, I pictured one of those madcap movies from the 1930's.
Very much looking forward to the future bookclub selections - so happy we will be reading "Emma" and "The Enchanted April"! Thank you Miranda, Donna and all who recorded messages!!💕
Thanks so much for your lovely comment, Nancy! I love Barbara too, and her happy ending is so satisfying as you say! I’m so glad you’re looking forward to future CBC reads!
I discovered your channel about a month ago and have enjoyed every bit of it, including some lovely recommendations. Not to worry about posting just once a week; I’m glad you are taking care of yourself. Looking forward to your videos and blog/social media posts as they come. Thank you for your part in new discoveries and many happy hours reading.
Thanks so much for those kind words, Beth!
What a great fun time giggling with you through the hilarious scenes all over again!! Thank you for including my message alongside the other readers, I've been so enjoying reading D.E. Stevenson, an author altogether new to me and have just finished Miss Bun the Baker's Daughter directly after Miss Buncle's Book! Sending you both the warmest wishes and supportive thoughts for all your endeavours Miranda! I will look forward to seeing you each Friday! 🌷
Thanks so much for your wonderful message and supportive comments as always, Jenneth! They are so appreciated. Love Mrs Bun too!
This was my first time reading along and I absolutely loved the book! I will be reading more of D.E. Stevenson soon. One thing that struck me was that Barbara felt that she was much different from her fictional counterpart. No one who read the book noticed this however, so I do think Barbara was a bit unreliable when it came to how she views herself. Mr. Abbot was the only one who noticed her personality difference during the dinner, but it would be normal to be nervous in that situation. My favorite part was the ending when she discovered that the vicar was in fact rich and she was disappointed to not have come up with that plot point.
So glad you enjoyed it, Kayla! I loved how Miss Buncle’s Elizabeth Wade characteristics became more pronounced as the book went along!
Oh, what a perfect joy to see you both again! Your laughter and friendliness are a tonic in these times. A sparkling review of a fabulous book. A new found friend I will pick up again very soon, even if just to read the odd paragraph. Absolutely marvellous picks for our future reads. I can't wait to get started. Lots of luck with your new endeavors, Miranda. I hope they work out beautifully for you. Sxx
Thanks so much, Sally!
I'm nodding along vigorously in agreement with everyone's observations here, both oral and written. I did especially like the graveyard scene, the Snowdens keen to keep mom tamped down. I also enjoyed how the twins, identical right down to their clothing, flummoxed everyone, nobody quite sure who was the boy and who, the girl. This was one of those reads that unfolded quite cinematically in my mind's eye, and the characters are so unforgettable. I'm listening to Yours Cheerfully, and can just imagine Emmy and Bunty giggling over novel. Or better yet, Miss Buncle on staff of Woman's Day! l'm looking forward to reading more of Stevenson's work. Not to mention, every time I fall in love with a Persephone book, my nose is back in their catalogue looking for more. Thank you ever so much for this fun read! Wishing you both a wonderful weekend.
So enjoyed reading your thoughts on the book, Pamela! Wouldn’t a mash-up between the Emmy Lake & Miss Buncle books be so much fun!!! 😘
Thank you for the introduction to D.E. Stevenson. I recalled you mentioning her before and was so delighted with this book club selection. Like many others, I laughed aloud throughout the novel and enjoyed its many layers. I am eager to scoop up the sequels! Thank you, as always, for the thoughtful content that you produce. It is such a welcome refreshment whenever your time allows.
That’s very kind, Emily! I hope you enjoy the sequels too! So much to enjoy in DES’s writing.
Hi Miranda and Donna! What an absolute delight this video was! ♥ I just finished my first D.E. Stevenson novel, Vittoria Cottage, which I received for Christmas. It was after hearing your wonderful comments on her books that I decided to give her a go, and how glad I am that I did! Her writing has the same gentle, cozy feel that Miss Read, Jan Karon and Elizabeth Goudge have, at least for me. And I found myself laughing out loud so often through the story...now I shall go on and add Miss Buncle's Book to my reading list as well. I'd love if you had any other recommendations for authors and/or books for those of us who enjoy Stevenson, Miss Read, Goudge, etc. They are such comforting writers! Thank you for another splendid video...stay cozy! ♥
Yes, I’m doing a whole book club around comfort book writers - do read along with us! Glad you enjoyed your first D E Stevenson 📚💕
This was a reread multiple times for me. I love this book and like one of the people who commented on the video, it makes me laugh every time! I love this book club! Thank you!
Thanks so much, Joy! So happy you love The Comfort Book Club!
This was a completely new author for me and I had no idea what to expect. I absolutely loved it and was laughing out loud - I will recommend it and I think it may be a favourite read and discovery of this year. I think D.E.Stevenson was very clever and way ahead of her time, as well as original and providing an insight into women's lives and lack of choice during those times. I must read the next two books! There were so many funny parts, from the breakfast rolls to the Colonel to Mrs Featherstone Hogg (and wasn't her husband just brilliant?!). I'm excited for the upcoming choices too. I recently acquired a copy of the Enchanted April as I've always meant to read it and have been saving it up for April - and being the book club choice for that month is great. A lovely end to a difficult week - thank you.
That’s wonderful you enjoyed your introduction to D E Stevenson so much, Ruth! And great that you already have The Enchanted April lined up & ready to go! Xxx
I have been a fan of D. E. Stevenson since a friend introduced me to her books almost 40 years ago, and I think I've read them all at least twice. I didn't get a chance to reread this one ahead of the discussion, but hearing you and Donna share the delightful moments and characters of Miss Buncle's Book has only made me want to find it immediately! I will miss your Tuesday videos but certainly understand and will treasure the ones that you share on Fridays. Thanks!
Such a fun discussion of one of my favorite books. Thank you for including me! I’m excited for March’s choice, as it’s a new author for me.
So happy to hear that, Chelle. Thank you so much again for your wonderful contribution to our discussion 😊💕
I finally received this book and read it and loved it. Miss Buncle Book is so so funny and I will enjoy re-reading it again in the near future. I enjoyed watching this book discussion as well and enjoy the comments and voice messages about it. So joyful, thank you Miranda and Donna.
Hello Miranda and Donna! I loved Miss Buncle’s Book. I think its been my favorite comfort read so far. My favorite scene from the book was the meeting......”pause for applause”. I laughed all the way through it. Thank you again for another great comfort read!💕
Loved that bit too, Sandy! 😀
Hi Miranda and Donna, I absolutely loved reading Miss Buncle and my favourite character was Dorcas, I felt like she was D E Stevenson's inner voice of down-to-earthness and common sense popping in every now and then. So looking forward to the next book which I accidentally gave to my husband as part of his Christmas present. I naughtily told him that, co-incidentally, it was a Comfort Book Club choice for next month and was delighted when he thoroughly recommended me borrowing it as it was such a good read. Happy reading, Teresa 📚
I loved Dorcas too! There was indeed a lot of humour in her common sense and thoughts on Miss Buncle when she was in a writing frantically phase! So glad your husband enjoyed Inspector Chopra! We are looking forward to the discussion at the end of the month.
I very much enjoyed the humour in the book. So clever how DE Stevenson has life mimicking the book and her real life characters changing as the book develops. A great choice for the Comfort Book Club and much needed light hearted diversion from current events. Also a lively and happy discussion and I enjoyed the voice message contributions.
Thanks so much, Karen! Really happy you enjoyed it!
Didn't read it yet.....but laughed out lout with you !! 🤭 Great discussion, enjoyed our little "tea time together" as always.
This book was so fun to read. Thank you for introducing me to D. E. Stevenson. I have to say I loved the relationship and loyalty between Dorcus and Miss Buncle, sweet and humorous at the same time. A wonderful group of characters. I loved reading this at the end of my day. Wishing the best to you and your new projects! 💗
Thanks so much, Cheryl! I’m so glad you enjoyed the book, and I loved the scenes with Dorcas and Barbara too.
What a fun video! I have to read this book. Thank you 👏
I just discovered your channel. The title caught my eye as it mentioned one of my favorite books from last year. I had given it 5 stars and noted that, “I loved it!” In my little reading notebook I always keep. You two are delightful and I so look forward to watching more of you videos.
Thank you so much, and welcome to my channel! Lovely to have you along 😊
I just came back from the bookstore with more of your recommendations - so many good books I wouldn’t have known about otherwise. I appreciate all the work you put into your videos and enjoy them all so much!
That’s so kind of you to say, Mary! Happy Reading! ❤️📚
Darn, wish my notification would have popped up the day before this. Thought it was tomorrow. Oh well, I’ll watch the replay tomorrow. I’m sure it will be enjoyable.
I do hope you enjoyed it! All my videos are now on Fridays with The Comfort Book Club discussion being on the last Friday of the month.
I just googled the book and found a used one at Amazon for only 1 pound in my language (German) 🤗! I immediately ordered it and I am going to really enjoy this funny story although I am a bit late to the party! 😄
Great! 👍
Thanks for recommending D.E. Stevenson's work - I started reading her work after you mentioned this book in a video you made a while ago and have read a few of her other works since. I've enjoyed them all so much.
To answer your question about other books which feature a character writing a book the first one which came to mind is O. Douglas's Ann and Her Mother. It is about a daughter (Ann) writing her mother's biography.
Thanks so much for this balletgem! Yes, of course there is the writing of her mother’s life in Ann and her Mother: I’m a huge O Douglas fan too, 😊📚❤️
Really enjoy this discussion it’s makes me want to read it now . Sounds very funny . Love to read Emma haven’t read it which is weird cause I love Jane Austen . I would love to read as well a sky painted gold as well sounds interesting . Thanks so much for the video.🙂
You’re very welcome, Grace! Hope you manage to read along with us!
I absolutely loved this book and it’s always so much fun to share it with all of you!
It was such a fun book club read! 💕
Greetings...I did not have a chance to read Miss Buncle's Book in time for the book club but have since purchased it on your recommendation and I absolutely love it! Thank you so much. I now have a list of her other books that I would like to read. Cheers from Canada.
I'm a little late in finishing Miss Buncle's Book but I loved it! Thank you for bringing such a charming, fun read to my attention.
Like this book so much that I bought the 2nd one in the series.
I so loved this book, an waxed on about it to anyone who would listen. I so loved the obvious juxtapositions that Barbara wrote, thinking she had disguised everyone
Me too, Kate! 😊
I finished this book this month and am enjoying this book club episode. Such a different book! 🇨🇦
Hi Miranda and Donna
After wracking my brain I remembered in The Help Skeeter writes a book using people from her surroundings home. It gets pretty crazy. 🤓
Thanks, Diane! I’d forgotten that one!
So joyful !
Thank you so much for the recommendation for this absolutely hilarious and wonderfully written novel. I listened to the audio and although it was really engaging the way it was narrated I just have to buy a physical copy to read it "properly" I am not a huge fan of kindle or audio ,So what is the next one?
I’m glad you enjoyed the book so much. If you watch to the end of the video, you’ll see all the upcoming CBC reads are announced!
I have read again Enchanted April quite recently so I have ordered two Laura Woods books instead . You get me reading different books thank you again !
I so very enjoyed Mrs. Buncle's Book. What fun to find series about a small English village reminding me very much of Miss Read books. But with the fun twist of the village trying to discover who John Smith is. Wonderful! Thank you for this recommendation! Enchanted April is a favorite of mine so I will be reading with you too in April. Have a wonderful weekend Miranda and Donna!
Awesome