A Fine and Pleasant Misery is a humorous collection of twenty-seven outdoor tales by Patrick F. McManus, edited by Jack Samson. These witty anecdotes blend truth and exaggeration, offering a hilarious perspective on camping, hiking, and hunting, making readers reconsider their outdoor aspirations.
Patrick F. McManus Books
Patrick F. McManus is an American author celebrated for his humorous takes on the great outdoors. His columns, featured in publications like Outdoor Life and collected into numerous books, offer a distinctive and witty perspective on outdoor adventures. McManus masterfully captures the absurdity and charm of life beyond the everyday. His writing appeals to readers who appreciate gentle humor and a deep affection for nature.






Never Sniff a Gift Fish
- 217 pages
- 8 hours of reading
This book offers humorous insights into the joys and challenges of hunting, fishing, and camping, showcasing the author's witty perspective on outdoor adventures. It's a celebration of life in the wild, filled with relatable anecdotes and observations.
In "They Shoot Canoes, Don't They?", Patrick F. McManus humorously explores the quirks of camping, hunting, and fishing. With anecdotes like Genghis Khan's chef discovering live bait and the hilarity of ice fishing, McManus combines wit and wisdom in outdoor adventures, making it a delightful read for nature enthusiasts.
The Good Samaritan Strikes Again
- 212 pages
- 8 hours of reading
With “a style that brings to mind Mark Twain, Art Buchwald, and Garrison Keillor” ( People ), Patrick F. McManus delivers another stellar collection of witty cautionary tales of the great outdoors in The Good Samaritan Strikes Again .Gathering together twenty-four of his hilarious essays―originally published in such magazines as Outdoor Life ―this volume features not only McManus’s follies with Mother Nature, but those of human nature as he shares such funny moments of his life as his first kiss, his public relations career, his less than helpful attempt to be a good Samaritan to an injured motorist, and so much more.
Into the Twilight, Endlessly Grousing
- 221 pages
- 8 hours of reading
A humorous and unconventional take on outdoor adventure from a bestselling author, reminiscent of Mark Twain and Art Buchwald. This book promises a witty exploration of the great outdoors, blending satire with insightful commentary.
Bear in the Attic
- 238 pages
- 9 hours of reading
The latest collection of essays from a beloved humorist showcases his sharp wit and comedic insights. Known for his engaging storytelling, the author delivers a series of laugh-out-loud reflections that tackle various topics with humor and charm. This volume promises to entertain fans and newcomers alike, highlighting the author's unique voice and perspective on life’s absurdities.
The Double-Jack Murders
- 240 pages
- 9 hours of reading
In this installment of the Sheriff Bo Tully mystery series, the protagonist tackles two intriguing cases: an 80-year-old missing persons mystery and a pressing threat to his own life. As Tully navigates these challenges, readers can expect a blend of suspense and character-driven storytelling that deepens the series' engaging narrative.