Akashic Books 1998 Paperback 274 pages

Review by M.

Suffering from low self-esteem? Feel like the world is against you? Life isn't going as planned? Read this book. It will make you feel real good about yourself.

The unnamed main character is just an average guy, living his life in New York City in the early 80's. Then he loses his job and his girlfriend kicks him out. Having to do what he can to get by, he pretends he's gay to get a job at a gay porn theatre. That's just the beginning.

Our "hero" is a likeable guy. I wanted nothing but good things to happen for him. Unfortunately, nothing does. Some may blame his limited ambition, but by the time we meet him one should be able to empathize with his need to just get out of the pile of shit he fell into.

I have read and heard people call this a postmodern commentary on the slacker generation; a philosophical look at the modern antihero; blah blah blah. Don't worry, there are those sitting in an ivory tower that feel the need to justify reading such a fun book.

The writing is simple (no really big words to confuse anyone), full of dark humour and reminders of life in the 80's. It is a fun, quick read that will hold your short attention span. Your life will feel like the Garden of Eden compared to this poor fellow's. Don't go to the self-help section of your local bookstore and waste a lot of money on that shit. For less than $15 (give or take), this book is an excellent How-NOT-To.

By the way, if you can relate to our pathetic storyteller, call your local Mental Health association and get some help. NOW.