Everyone has come to love the impeccable Jeeves and the inimitable Bertie. But what of their creator, Pelham Grenville Wodehouse, whose ninety-three years produced a volume of work “unsurpassed in the history of literature”? Was he really a traitor to his country who broadcast dangerous propaganda from Germany during the war? And how can this be squared with the immensely lovable figure of “Plum,” upon whom the Queen bestowed a knighthood in 1975?
In researching this authorized, definitive biography, Frances Donaldson was given unique access to Wodehouse’s most important private papers, including the notebooks he kept during the sad episode of his internment during the Second World War. For the first time, Wodehouse’s beliefs, writings and actions are seen in the full context of the rest of his life.
Download and start listening now!
"The author evidently knew the family but still produced a balanced and detached picture of an enigmatic man.A fascinating read, not only into the character of Wodehouse himself but also a view of the times. "
— Kate (4 out of 5 stars)
“A wealth of information, anecdotal and otherwise and will probably stand as the best general account of the man and his writings for some time.”
— Library Journal“The definitive, beautifully composed, affectionate but absolutely judicious biography of Wodehouse.”
— Los Angeles Times“Donaldson and Wodehouse go together like Boswell and Johnson ... Jeeves and Bertie.”
— Stephen FryFrances Donaldson (1907–1994) was best known for her award-winning biography of King Edward VIII, which won the Wolfson Literary Award and was the basis for a six-part television series, Edward and Mrs. Simpson. Her other popular books include Evelyn Waugh: Portrait of a Country Neighbor, P.G. Wodehouse: A Biography, and The Royal Opera House in the 20th Century.
Frederick Davidson (1932–2005), also known as David Case, was one of the most prolific readers in the audiobook industry, recording more than eight hundred audiobooks in his lifetime, including over two hundred for Blackstone Audio. Born in London, he trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and performed for many years in radio plays for the British Broadcasting Company before coming to America in 1976. He received AudioFile’s Golden Voice Award and numerous Earphones Awards and was nominated for a Grammy for his readings.