The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman

by Laurence Sterne
The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Comedy/Humor
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Waterstones
Paperback • £5.99–£20.99 Hardback • £20.00
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Technical
  • ID: 10428
  • Added: 2026-01-25
  • Updated: 2026-02-03
  • Published: 1793-01-01
  • Formats: 5
  • Reviews: 3

The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman is a groundbreaking novel known for its digressive style and humorous exploration of human nature. The story unfolds through the eyes of Tristram Shandy, who attempts to recount his life and opinions but constantly gets sidetracked by anecdotes and reflections on his family and surroundings. Written in the 18th century, this novel is celebrated for its innovative narrative techniques and satirical wit. It delves into themes of identity, memory, and the absurdities of life, making it a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers with its unique approach to storytelling.

Reviews
Words and Peace · 2023-03-11
impressive 4.50

The novel is praised for its impressive and modern feel despite its age. It is seen as a timeless piece that stands out for its unique narrative style.

The reviewer highlights how 'The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman' manages to feel modern and impressive despite being written in the 18th century. They appreciate the novel's unique narrative style, which defies traditional storytelling and offers a fresh perspective. The book is described as a timeless piece that continues to captivate readers with its wit and originality. The reviewer also notes how the novel's structure and humor make it a standout work in literary history.

Quick quotes

    An impressive modern novel before modernity!

    The novel's unique narrative style defies traditional storytelling.

    A timeless piece that continues to captivate readers with its wit and originality.

The Guardian · Liam Williams · 2020-06-01
impactful 4.75

The novel is seen as a classic that changed the reviewer's view of comedy and life. It is praised for its unique and impactful style.

Liam Williams shares how 'The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman' changed his perspective on comedy and life. As a rookie standup, he found the novel to be a classic that offered a unique and impactful style. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to blend humor with deeper themes, making it a memorable and influential read. They also note how the novel's style has stood the test of time and continues to inspire new generations of readers and comedians.

Quick quotes

    I was a rookie standup when I came across Laurence Sterne's classic, and it changed my view of not just comedy, but life.

    The novel's unique and impactful style.

    The book's ability to blend humor with deeper themes.

Hungry Like the Woolf · 2010-01-11
fun 4.00

The book is described as exceedingly fun and full of humor. It is noted for its ability to make readers smile and enjoy the reading experience.

The reviewer found 'The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman' to be an exceedingly fun read. They highlight the book's humor and its ability to make readers smile throughout. The novel is praised for its entertaining and engaging style, which makes it a joy to read. The reviewer also notes how the book's humor is timeless and continues to resonate with readers today.

Quick quotes

    The book is exceedingly fun.

    Laurence Sterne, according to his own dedication, was 'persauded that every time a man smiles, – but much more so, ...'

    The novel's humor is timeless and continues to resonate with readers today.

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