Narrated By: Philomena Cunk (Diane Morgan)
Publisher: John Murray
Age: Adult
Genre: Nonfiction – History
Format: Audiobook
Published: October 3rd, 2024
Rating: 5/5 Stars
For those who aren’t aware, Philomena Cunk is a character played by Diane Morgan, and if you haven’t come across her before, I strongly suggest checking her out. Morgan plays the part brilliantly on TV, but so much of the character relies on misunderstanding and bouncing off experts, I wasn’t totally sure if it would translate as well to book/audio format. My fears were unfounded, and The World According to Cunk keeps the humour of the character intact, even shining more strongly in a few places.
The book covers world history so far, taking us right back in time to the dawn of man, then up to the present day, and the audiobook even came with a PDF of Cunk’s own drawings to illustrate these events. I think if you’re well versed in history, this is going to be a light, entertaining read that adds a sense of humour to events you’re already familiar with. I actually found it kind of useful as a sort of ‘refresher’, and I think a great job has been done here with keeping it entertaining and informative, covering, as stated, all world events ever.
Ultimately, it’s the deadpan delivery that really sells both Cunk as a character and this book, keeping you fully buying into the character. It just works really well. This isn’t a hugely comprehensive, detailed history of the world, and nor is it meant to be, but it’s does cover a lot and does so in a way that’s brilliantly funny.
Reading Challenge
Musicals Reading Challenge 2025
Prompt: Singin’ in the Rain – Make ‘Em Laugh – Comedy/humour
Progress: 5/24
Unwrapping Words 