James A. Simpson's book is a perceptive look at the subject of ageing -- not just the 'woes that wait on age' but also the many delights of growing older...

He wrote: 'Believing as I do that the most entrancing words in any language are "Once upon a time...", this book, like many of my previous books, is full of stories, stories which ... not only gave me food for thought, but caused me to laugh. I hope the stories will also cause the readers to stop, think and chuckle. We get better wrinkles from laughing than frowning...'

The royalties from this book have gone to Cystic Fibrosis charities. From his books and speaking engagements, Dr Simpson raised over £70,000 for Cystic Fibrosis research and support.

For 21 years Dr James A. Simpson was minister of Dornoch Cathedral in the Scottish Highlands. During his time there he not only served as captain of the Royal Dornoch Golf Club, but wrote many books, some of which, like Holy Wit and Life, Love and Laughter, topped Scottish bestseller charts. Dr Simpson was a regular contributor to magazines and newspapers, at home and abroad. He was also much in demand as an after-dinner speaker.

Dr Simpson long believed that in any lecture, discussion or debate a little comic relief did no harm, no matter how serious the topic may be.

In 1992 he was appointed chaplain to the Queen in Scotland. Two years later he was elected Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. Dr Simpson died in 2024.

'Wry, amusing and occasionally poignant ... The serious messages of age are interspersed with Dr Simpson's collection of witty stories, which can inspire a cheery moment, even on the darkest days and would make an ideal gift for either young or old.'
-- Life and Work

'A glorious collection of pieces relating to getting older, compiled by the author of several previous books that have made me laugh ... A perfect "stocking filler" for Christmas, or excellent as a gift at any time and not just for the elderly.'
-- Mary Bartholomew, The GoodBookstall

'As well as funny stories, there are many insights in the book. There is wise advice about how to approach ageing, and how to live with the limitations that it can bring ... This wee book, then, is a treasure, full of funny and wise things.'
-- Ron Ferguson, Press and Journal

'Dr Simpson is a man not only learned and humane, but one blessed with an irrepressible sense of humour. Absorb his humour and laugh.'
-- Rosamunde Pilcher

'I am a great fan of Dr Simpson's writings.'
-- Lord Carey