Author(s): Joe Bennett

New Zealand

One of this country's most widely read and popular syndicated columnists, both in newspapers and magazines, Joe Bennett's erudite and wryly amusing commentaries on the foibles and eccentricities of modern life qualify him as one of our best-loved grouches. He finds much to complain about, much to condemn and, occasionally and always entertainingly, something to praise - which usually involves a dog or two. His annual collections of the best of these columns have steadily built a dedicated readership, and this year's offering is equally flavoursome, as his writing continues to mature and ripen, like his beloved red wine. We've bottled the best of 2009 and are happy to report it will be another vintage year for those who love his crisp, clever, dry and always clever takes on life in these modern times of ours, that never waste a single word. One for the fans that is sure to also win him new ones.