Details
| Size | | Height: | 8.5 in | | Width: | 5.5 in | | Thickness: | 0.8 in | | Weight: | 8.8 oz |
Industry Reviews
In this quirky collection of short humor pieces (Shaffer's first published book), the reader is treated to a delightful peek at life in a parallel universe. Satirizing every mode of communication and literary genre, from personal ads to war novels, he zeroes in on the modern American psyche with laser accuracy and loving affection. He puts the Cat-in-the-Hat on trial, defended by Robert Shapiro. He delivers a news report on Hurricane Alice, Mud Slide Vivian, Train Wreck Smitty, Bomb Scare George, Product Tampering Helen and, finally, Nameless Dread Wilhelm. Often narrating in a first-person voice, his monologues have a sharp satiric edge: ``Sparkling in the morning chill, the old front porch awaits me, covered by a fresh layer of white winter fluffiness. The creamy vanilla frosting is my mother's own special recipe, lovingly applied with bold strokes that crisscross the floorboards and handrails.'' Some pop-culture literacy is a plus (``I was more than pleased when Jake and the Fatman proved it could pull down high ratings''), but Shaffer's trust in his reader to get the joke, no matter how ``inside,'' is admirable. Here is mind candy that's actually good for you, high in intellectual fiber but easy to digest. Devour it in one sitting, or ration it out and savor every bite-size nugget. (Oct.)
Bernstein
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