BOOK REVIEW: Busy This Evening? Yarns of a London Minicab Driver by Chris Bastin

Busy this Evening? Yarns of a London Minicab Driver

Author: Chris Bastin
Publication Date: 25 July 2023
Genre: Contemporary Fiction / Humour

Book Description:

Inspired by the author’s own work and personal experiences, Busy This Evening? presents a humorous and often tongue-in-cheek insight into the life of a London minicab driver, through the eyes of the sincere and endearing Thomas Buckley.

This dip-in style book covers many aspects of the job, such as minicab etiquette and notable passenger encounters, but also shares Buck’s innermost thoughts and his amusing insights into situations, people and relationships as he goes about his daily business, and is complete with a smattering of his favourite jokes along the way.

Readers will find it easy to relate to a great deal of the subject matter in Busy This Evening? It is an amusing, uplifting and original read that will make them not only see minicab drivers in a whole new light – but life itself.

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK

SUMMARY

Busy This Evening?: Yarns of a London Minicab Driver introduces readers to a humorous and insightful portrayal of the life of Thomas Buckley, a London minicab driver. Through Thomas's experiences and interactions with a diverse array of passengers, the book delves into various aspects of his job, from minicab etiquette to memorable encounters with passengers. Thomas reflects on his own life, including his long-standing marriage to Helen and their three children, Toby, Charlotte and Mathias. The book captures the essence of Thomas's daily experiences, offering amusing anecdotes and observations that shed light on both the quirks of his passengers and the broader tapestry of life itself.

MY THOUGHTS

This book offers an engaging glimpse into the world of a London minicab driver, presented with wit and charm by Bastin. Thomas Buckley emerges as a relatable and likable protagonist, whose interactions with passengers provide both entertainment and moments of reflection. The book's strength lies in its ability to draw readers into Thomas's world, where every fare becomes an opportunity for humour, insight or unexpected connection.

I particularly enjoyed the diverse range of characters Thomas encounters, from the friendly and congenial to the irritable and eccentric. These interactions not only showcase Thomas's versatility as a driver but also underscore the rich tapestry of human experience found within the confines of a minicab. The humour throughout the book is well-executed, with scenes like the Michael Jackson vs. Elvis Presley exchange adding levity and charm to the narrative.

Overall, this book is a delightful read that offers both entertainment and a fresh perspective on the lives of minicab drivers. It's a book that resonates with authenticity, drawing from the author's own experiences to create a compelling and enjoyable narrative. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a light-hearted yet insightful exploration of human nature and the everyday joys and challenges of life behind the wheel.

VERDICT

Rating: 4 Stars

Source: Author