The Worst Joke in the World: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
The Worst Joke in the World: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.
The Worst Joke in the World is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Holding, Elisabeth Sanxay (1889–1955).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"The Worst Joke in the World" by Elisabeth Sanxay Holding is a short story written in the early 20th century that intricately explores the complex relationship dynamics between a mother-in-law and her children. The narrative focuses on Mrs. Champney, who faces a life transition from independence and personal fulfillment to becoming a mother-in-law, a role she initially dreads and misunderstands. Through her journey, the author delves into themes of family, love, and the societal expectations placed upon women, particularly in the context of familial roles. The story unfolds as Mrs. Champney is forced to leave her comfortable boarding house and move in with her son Robert, his wife Molly, and their young child Bobbetty due to a financial crisis. Despite her initial reluctance and fear of being a burden, she gradually begins to appreciate her new role within the family. As she navigates the challenges of starting a new life and coming to terms with her identity as a mother-in-law, she discovers that her presence is not just tolerated but valued. Ultimately, Mrs. Champney finds joy and purpose in her new role, shifting her perspective from seeing herself as an outsider to embracing the loving responsibilities of grandmotherhood, challenging the negative stereotypes associated with being a mother-in-law.
Book and edition facts
- Title: The Worst Joke in the World
- Author credits: Holding, Elisabeth Sanxay (1889–1955)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Families -- Fiction
- Mothers-in-law -- Fiction
- United States -- Social life and customs -- 20th century -- Fiction
Gutenberg collections
- Category: American Literature
- Category: Short Stories
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View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.
Source notes
Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.
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