Word Ferret – Fiction and Literary Commentary

Sysnopsis: First published in 1759, this work follows the misadventures of Candide, a young Westphalian who holds to the philosophy that “everything is for the best” – but only when things are going his way. Through this collection of hilarious characters, such as Candide’s tutor Pangloss, his best friend Camcabo, the beautiful if vain and not very bright Cunegonde and her one buttocked servant we ask the question, how can human beings achieve happiness in this world?

General Comments:  I’ve read this book at least twenty times. Party due to it’s brevity, more down to the fact that it’s hilarious, brilliant, harsh, and bang on the money when illustrating the various aspects of human nature, both good and bad… I love this book.

About the author:  François-Marie Arouet (21 November 1694 – 30 May 1778), better known by the pen name Voltaire was a French poet, essayist, philosopher, and writer of several books including Candide,  Zadig and Micromegas (among others) Particularly noted for his wit, he was an advocate for fair trade and freedom of religion (though reputed to be an athiest).

If you wish to have a read, you can pick up the book at Amazon by following this link: Candide, by Voltaire