George Grossmith (1847–1912) was a brilliant comic actor, author and performer of sketches and songs that were very popular in his time, and author of librettos for many operettas. His younger brother, Weedon Grossmith (1854–1919), was a talented cartoonist, playwright, and also a gifted actor. The creative fate of the brothers was quite happy. But they owe truly worldwide fame to their “Diary of an Insignificant Person,” published in 1892 and equipped with witty illustrations by Mr. Weedon Grossmith. “The Diary” long ago took a strong place in the lists of world classics, not to mention the best examples of English humorous prose. According to some critics, this book became the predecessor of the much-loved books by Jerome K. Jerome and P. G. Wodehouse. Now, thanks to the wonderful translator Elena Surits, Russian readers have the opportunity to get acquainted with her charming characters.