4/10/08

Short stories show danger of laughter

Dangerous Laughter
By Steven Millhauser
($24.00; Alfred A. Knopf)

Guest Review by T.L. Muench

Imagine, if you will, that Rod Serling and Kurt Vonnegut, Jr. fathered a baby boy. And further imagine that this boy grows up in Winesburg, Ohio and attends school where his guidance counselor is Sherwood Anderson. Obviously, this boy would have to eventually become the very bright and talented Mr. Millhauser.

His most recent book is a collection of 13 short stories, thematically related in 3 “acts,” which even opens with a cartoon: “Cat ‘n’ Mouse.” Turning a page of each of these stories is like answering the knock at the door on the eve of October 31st where the author provides cleverly crafted tricks which become their own treats. These are stories that transform the most mundane situations into a place where even children’s innocent Laughter can be Dangerous.

Mr. Millhauser is such a gifted craftsman that his writing seems effortless. Don’t be fooled; you, ultimately, are a willing captive in the clutches of a master storyteller.

Much appreciation to my friend Mary for loaning me this valuable space.

Mary Burns is owner of BookWORKS in downtown Marysville. Call (360) 659-4997 or visit www.marysvillebookworks.com.