To tell the truth

So I have this copy of Brideshead Revisited -- which, yes, was actually a novel once upon a time, even though you'd never know it from reading the advance press for the new movie version, all of which proceeds from the assumption that this film is based on the 1981 miniseries, which was so splendid that art essentially did not exist prior to that date. But anyway, I've been flipping through my old, non-movie-tie-in copy of the book lately and wondering what to make of the blurbs for this and other works by Waugh. On the cover, between the men's legs, is this quick endorsement:

"Waugh's finest achievement." - New York Times

And a blurb on the back agrees:

"This is Waugh's best. Can one say more of genius?"
- E.L. Lewis, Library Journal

Very well. But look what happens when you turn to the final page, the one labeled "Also by Evelyn Waugh":

DECLINE AND FALL
"One of Evelyn Waugh's best..." - New York Times Book Review

A HANDFUL OF DUST
"...Unquestionably the best book Mr. Waugh has written."
- Saturday Review

THE LOVED ONE
"...Mr. Waugh has never written more brilliantly."
- New York Times

I think this collection of praise is meant to make me want to read one, or all, of these reputed masterworks, but all that contradictory hyperbole leaves me feeling a bit dizzy. I have the uneasy sense that, when I close this book and put it back on the shelf, the various reviewers will begin to argue among themselves. I am tempted to maintain my conscientious objector status.

Supposing I do decide to read on, maybe you can advise me: What's your favorite Waugh? ...Ha ha, only joking! If God meant us to read, He wouldn't have given us television. I won't fight the zeitgeist: What's your favorite miniseries?