Community Reviews

Rating(4.1 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
40(40%)
4 stars
33(33%)
3 stars
27(27%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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3.5 stars.

This book would truly be a hilarious experience if it were an audiobook narrated by the author himself. Having had the pleasure of listening to his radio program in the past, as I delved into the stories of Dave and Morley, I could almost vividly hear his distinct voice in my mind.

The chapter about the frozen lasagna was particularly uproarious. It had me laughing out loud uncontrollably. The author's unique style of storytelling shines through in this chapter, making it a standout moment in the book.

Overall, while reading this book, I couldn't help but imagine how much more entertaining it would be to have the author's actual voice bringing the characters and their adventures to life. It's a testament to his talent as a writer that he can create such a vivid and engaging world that even without the audio component, I was thoroughly entertained.
July 15,2025
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I didn't even know it was a 2nd volume!

It truly came as a pleasant surprise. This little book is an absolute gem.

The moment I started reading it, I was captivated by its charm.

It is not only fun but also incredibly funny.

The author has a unique way of telling stories and creating characters that make you laugh out loud.

Each page is filled with witty remarks and humorous situations that keep you engaged from beginning to end.

Despite its small size, it packs a big punch in terms of entertainment value.

I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a lighthearted and enjoyable read.

Whether you're sitting on the beach, curled up on the couch, or taking a break from your busy day, this little book is sure to bring a smile to your face.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the fun and laughter that this 2nd volume has to offer.

It's a must-read for all book lovers.

July 15,2025
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I recall the Vinyl Café stories to be more humorous.

The first story, which was about cooking a Christmas turkey, was truly entertaining. It had all the elements that could make one burst into laughter.

Similarly, the last story about a Christmas get together also managed to elicit some good laughs. The descriptions and the situations were presented in a way that was both relatable and funny.

However, the stories in between were kind of dry. They didn't have the same level of humor and excitement as the first and the last ones.

Perhaps it's just my frame of mind at that time. Maybe I was expecting something more hilarious throughout the entire collection of stories.

Nonetheless, the Vinyl Café stories did have their moments of laughter and enjoyment.
July 15,2025
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I am truly ashamed to admit that I have never delved into any of Stuart McLean's stories, nor have I had the pleasure of listening to him on the radio.

McLean was indeed a precious gem of Canada. Against the backdrop of the beautiful Canadian vista, his short stories commence with Morley and Dave, who meet, fall in love, and then progress into tales of their family.

There are stories for every season. Some of them are so hilarious that they make you burst out laughing, while others might make you cringe. The stories are concise yet highly interesting. Each one has a certain charm that compels you to read the next.

These stories offer the reader a brief glimpse of the beauty that is our country, along with an in-depth view of a regular Canadian family. It is an absolute must-read for anyone who has a penchant for classic Canadian tales.

By not having explored McLean's works thus far, I feel I have missed out on a wonderful literary experience that could have enriched my understanding and appreciation of Canadian culture and life. I resolve to rectify this omission and embark on a journey through his stories as soon as possible.

July 15,2025
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This book is truly very charming and enjoyable.

It offers a nice, easy, and feel-good reading experience.

I must admit that I still haven't actually listened to McLean's show.

However, I'm extremely glad to have finally got a chance to enjoy his work.

This opportunity came especially after I looked through his records for a school project.

The process of researching his records not only gave me a better understanding of his body of work but also piqued my interest in exploring more of it.

Now that I've had a taste of his talent through this reading, I'm looking forward to delving deeper into his other creations, whether it's his show or any other works he has produced.

I believe there's a wealth of entertainment and inspiration waiting for me to discover.

July 15,2025
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I'm not entirely certain that I found this book to be as uproariously hilarious as the cover had led me to believe. However, there were indeed some rather funny elements within it.

The main characters, Dave and Morley, are simply an ordinary couple. They are constantly striving to do their jobs to the best of their abilities and raise their family in the most optimal way possible.

But, like all of us, they make mistakes. They might accidentally embarrass their kids in front of their friends or have vacation plans that turn out to be completely disastrous.

In short, they are just ordinary people with ordinary lives and ordinary problems. And that's what makes these stories so relatable. They could easily happen to any one of us.

It's refreshing to read about characters who are not perfect, but who are still trying their best to navigate through life's challenges with a sense of humor and a whole lot of heart.

Overall, while the book may not have been laugh-out-loud funny from start to finish, it did have its moments that made me smile and nod in recognition.
July 15,2025
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In Toronto, there is a charming couple who own a used record store. Their lives are filled with humorous and heartwarming stories that are as entertaining as they are unique.


These stories originally began as radio monologues on a Canadian show similar to A Prairie Home Companion. The couple's adventures in the record store, dealing with customers, and uncovering hidden musical gems make for hilarious listening.


If you are a fan of Garrison Keilor's stories, then you are sure to love these. The couple's witty banter, colorful characters, and the overall quirkiness of their lives in the used record store will have you laughing out loud and coming back for more.

July 15,2025
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Everything that I like can be found in this book. It is so warm and cozy, as if it is a gentle embrace on a cold winter's day. The personal touch in the story makes it feel like it is a part of my own life. The beautiful language and vivid descriptions paint a picture in my mind that I never want to fade away.


I am completely captivated by this book and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. I am eager to see what adventures and emotions lie ahead for the characters. I know that each new installment will be just as wonderful as the first, and I can't wait to embark on this literary journey.


The author has truly created a masterpiece that has touched my heart and soul. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good story that is both heartwarming and engaging.

July 15,2025
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Love the Vinyl Cafe stories and humour.

The Vinyl Cafe is a wonderful source of entertainment and joy. The stories told by Stuart McLean are not only engaging but also filled with a unique sense of humour that never fails to bring a smile to our faces.

Each story has its own charm, whether it's about the everyday life of the characters or their extraordinary adventures. The way McLean weaves together the details and the emotions makes us feel as if we are right there with them, experiencing everything along the way.

The humour in the Vinyl Cafe stories is often subtle and understated, but it has a powerful impact. It makes us laugh out loud and also makes us think about the absurdities of life.

Whether we are listening to the stories on the radio or reading them in a book, the Vinyl Cafe always manages to brighten our day and remind us of the simple pleasures in life.

We love the Vinyl Cafe stories and humour, and we can't wait to hear more.
July 15,2025
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A delightful collection of Dave and Morley stories is presented, neatly organized according to the seasons of the year. The tales unfold in a charming manner, taking the readers on a journey through the different times of the year. It all culminates with the neighbours' Christmas Party, which turns out to be a hilarious event. The adult and kids' punch bowls somehow get mixed, leading to some unexpected and comical situations. And then there's the final story, which involves Sam's jock strap for hockey. Reading these stories is like spending a precious half hour with Stuart again on CBC. Sadly, Stuart has passed away, but his wonderful stories live on. RIP Stuart.

July 15,2025
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This is a compilation of short stories that has been carefully compiled to complete a year.

Each and every chapter, or story if you will, was filled with a delightful sense of humor. It had the power to bring a smile to your face and lighten your mood.

However, the pièce de résistance was undoubtedly the last chapter. It was so outrageously funny that it had me laughing out loud from start to finish.

The wit and charm of Stuart McLean's writing are truly captivating. This compilation has left such a lasting impression on me that I can firmly say it will not be the last Stuart McLean book I read.

I look forward to delving into more of his works and experiencing the joy and laughter that they bring.
July 15,2025
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This is the second book of stories that Stuart McLean has compiled from his radio broadcasts and live performances of the Vinyl Café. It was even more popular than the first book and won the 1999 Stephen Leacock Award for Humour.

The book consists of sixteen stories, framed within the four seasons of the year, starting from one Christmas and ending at the next. It commences with Maclean's widely acclaimed story about Dave cooking the Christmas turkey. From there, it progresses through the year until the following Christmas, featuring tales such as stringing up the Christmas lights on the roof in zero-degree weather and accidentally spiking the children's punch with rum at a neighborhood party.

As McLean guides readers through the seasons, there are stories about the awkward experience of first love, a family vacation at a cottage that doesn't meet expectations, the unexpected turn of events when Dave is left to care for a friend's precious sourdough starter, and flashbacks detailing how Dave and Morley first met and began dating. We also encounter Kenny Woo, the owner of Woo's Scottish pies, who is Dave's best friend and often saves him from the various troubles he gets himself into. On a more subdued note, there is a story about Dave and Morley's parents, whose health is declining. McLean doesn't often tell somber stories, but this one is deeply poignant and moving.

The story about Dave being left to plan Sam's sleepover birthday party is truly hilarious. It begins when Dave forgets his credit card at the liquor store and, not wanting to go back and face the clerk with whom he had a quarrel, he simply cancels the card. This leads to all sorts of consequences, including a vegetarian boy eating a meat pie, the kids watching a scary zombie movie, and having to eat lumpy birthday cake.

However, the very best story is the first one about Dave's attempts to cook the Christmas turkey. It became so popular that it was repeated during the annual Christmas tours and has continued to attract a wider audience over the years.

This is yet another outstanding collection of Stuart McLean's stories, always loved by people of all ages.
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