Just finished 'La Gente Cursi' and I have to talk about it. This book is a forgotten gem of Spanish satire, and it's way funnier than I expected from something published in the 1800s.

The Story

The plot follows a middle-class family—let's call them the Aspirationals—who are utterly consumed by one goal: being accepted by high society. The problem? They have no clue how to actually pull it off. We follow them as they throw painfully awkward parties, buy overly ornate furniture they can't afford, and use fancy words completely wrong, all while looking down on anyone they consider 'common.' Their journey is a series of hilarious missteps and social blunders, where every attempt to seem refined just highlights how ridiculous they are.

Why You Should Read It

What struck me is how timeless this is. Swap out the carriages for luxury cars and the elaborate gowns for designer logos, and you've got a story for today. Ortega y Frías isn't just mocking his characters; he's pointing a finger at a very human weakness. You'll laugh at their antics, but you might also catch yourself thinking, 'Okay, maybe I know someone a little like that...' The characters are so vividly drawn in their vanity that you can't help but get invested in their next embarrassing adventure.

Final Verdict

This is perfect for anyone who loves character-driven humor, historical fiction that doesn't feel dusty, or a sharp look at the silly sides of human nature. If you enjoy authors who observe society with a witty and slightly merciless eye, you'll feel right at home. It’s a short, smart, and surprisingly accessible read that proves some social anxieties never go out of style.