The English artist and writer Nicolas Bentley's book illustrations of the 1930s are wonderful examples of economy and wit and examples from four of them will eventually be presented here. When the publisher Constable decided to publish a selection of Damon Runyon's humorous stories, about Broadway low life, under the title 'More Than Somewhat' Bentley was commisioned to provide ten illustrations. The book was so successful that 'Furthermore' followed the next year, again with Bentley's spot-on illustrations. He had already proved himself in this field with his work for the two Benson/Askwith collaborations, published by Victor Gollancz, also featured here. Unfortunately the two ladies' ironic style of humour is unlikely to be either understood or well received today and I'm afraid probably won't get a modern reprint! You can learn more about Nicolas Bentley in the 'Biographies' section of this site.