Rating: ![4 stars](http://www.reviewfocus.com/images/stars-4-0.gif) Summary: Phule is Phun Review: If you are looking for something light and entertaining and something enjoyably different from the Star Trek or Star Wars series, try Robert L. Asprin's Phules books for a good start. I recommend that you read them in order. Start with this one, "Phule's Company." The other reviewer answered some plot questions, so I won't repeat any of that here. The purpose of this review is solely to say that this book and its series are an OK place to start looking for an alternative source of light science fiction.There is nothing too heavy, too outrageious, or too violent in this series. They are somewhat dated (Phule uses something very akin to a laptop computer and wireless communication which was way-out science fiction when the first book was written). But, you can overlook that if you want to just enjoy a fun read (similar to the Doc Savage-type books where an answering machine was an fabulous invention). Asprin uses some good old-fashioned character conflict to keep the reader interested. Everyone loves an underdog (which Phule is) that makes good. Phule isn't perfect, but he tries hard to do a good job even if it involves some risk and is a likeable character. I gave the book 4 stars because it is "OK." I reserve five-star ratings for larger, more complex plots, and books that leave me feeling put out to sea, or at least decidedly different. Go ahead and buy this book, you cannot help but be entertained.
Rating: ![4 stars](http://www.reviewfocus.com/images/stars-4-0.gif) Summary: A Militia with Heart Review: It's the story of Captain Jester and his ragtag troop of misfits in a sci-fi comedy full of all the twists and japes you'd expect from the author of the MYTH series. Captain Jester's strength in leadership comes from his belief in the abilities of others and the compassion to help them find their own self-worth. He's a soldier who cares. This book is a wonderful example of the theory that the best way to build a winning team is through sincere positive reinforcement. You'll read it more than once. It'll make you laugh and it will give you a warm feeling and a smile.
Rating: ![3 stars](http://www.reviewfocus.com/images/stars-3-0.gif) Summary: Hmmm Review: Maybe it's just me, but whoever thought up the blurb for this one misstated the 'invasion'. I did like this book but I did not like the 'teaser'. Some very interesting points about human nature were presented. A good read if you have a lot of time on your hands.
Rating: ![3 stars](http://www.reviewfocus.com/images/stars-3-0.gif) Summary: Hmmm Review: Maybe it's just me, but whoever thought up the blurb for this one misstated the 'invasion'. I did like this book but I did not like the 'teaser'. Some very interesting points about human nature were presented. A good read if you have a lot of time on your hands.
Rating: ![5 stars](http://www.reviewfocus.com/images/stars-5-0.gif) Summary: Phule's Company- an original and fun read!! Review: Phule's Company is a great book and a joy to read. It is extremely entertaining and keeps you reading intently until the end. It has a creative plot and unforgetable characters. I believe it is one of the best Robert Asprin has ever written. By far one of the funnest books I have ever read!
Rating: ![5 stars](http://www.reviewfocus.com/images/stars-5-0.gif) Summary: It is to laugh... or shoot shomething Review: Robert Asprin is probably more famous for his Myth books than the Phule books but I happen to think the first two Phule novels are much funnier. I'm talking laugh out loud funny. They are also quite addictive and it is difficult not to read each in one sitting. Fair warning though, I'm fairly sure "Phule's Company" and "Phule's Paradice" are the only two novels in the series that were written by Asprin, so buyer beware for the rest. The basic concept revolves around one key individual. A career military commander who has the happy knack of getting the most out of his people and achieving even seemingly impossible goals. The trouble is, this paragon of virtue is also a rich playboy who is an officer in the Space Legion; a branch of service despised by all the others. He also enjoys the active animosity of some very high ranking brass, who like nothing better than to set him up for failure. It is just such an attempt that puts Captain Phule in charge of the Omega company; a band of ruthless, capitalistic, incompetent, belligerent misfits who's sole purpose seems to be to make the rest of the legion look a little better by comparison. Half the fun of these novels is watching this group of interesting characters turn their unique talents for mayhem to good ends, or at least Phule's ends. I don't promise you Shakespeare but you will get a kick out of Phule's Company.
Rating: ![5 stars](http://www.reviewfocus.com/images/stars-5-0.gif) Summary: The greatest characters! Review: This book has the greatest characters created: Willard Phule, Tusk-anini, Super Gnat, Brandy, and all the rest. I highly recomend.
Rating: ![5 stars](http://www.reviewfocus.com/images/stars-5-0.gif) Summary: This is a great read Review: This book introduces you to One phule. It is his last name. For a great read and more than a few chuckles read this book. I cannot wait till I get the next three in the sreise.
Rating: ![5 stars](http://www.reviewfocus.com/images/stars-5-0.gif) Summary: A stunning - slightly hysterical read Review: This book is absolutely outstanding. It has a very well planned plot and some of the most lovable characters I have ever read about - From the pacifist Voltron "Tuskannini" to the hoverboard riding Sinthians the novel is filled with characters who you can actually envisage as people , even though they may come in all shapes and sizes. The story has many twists and some of the problems that Phule combats left me worrying until I had a chance to pick up the book again. A thrilling read for anyone, from the die hard Sci Fi fan to, well, anyone. Bloody Brilliant.
Rating: ![4 stars](http://www.reviewfocus.com/images/stars-4-0.gif) Summary: Fun characters Review: This is a pretty enjoyable book and is a comedic space opera. The first in a series of, so far, 5 books. Willard 'Captain Jester' Phule is in charge of the worst group of misfits and ne'er-do-wells that the Space Legion has to offer. Omega Company is a dumping ground for miscreants and Phule gets to change them. Being the son of Victor Phule, the munitions master of Phule-Proof Ammunition and Weapons, he is one of the wealthiest people in the galaxy. He takes his butler and money to improve his conditions and turn the rag-tag mob around by taking the company and running it as he would one of his businesses. Overall, it is a good way to spend a few days in light hearted reading. It's your typical 'underdog overcomes all' scenario but the likable characters certainly betters the formula. Other books in the series are: 1. Phule's Company 2. Phule's Paradise 3. A Phule and His Money 4. Phule Me Twice 5. No Phule Like an Old Phule Worth reading a few times for those lazy afternoon sunny days while relaxing on the porch. These are books that a teenager might really like an spark an interest in reading, too.
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