#45

This wee collection (a mere three stories) is a hoot. I think The Laying on of Hands--about a memorial service for a dead masseur whose speciality was happy endings for the rich and famous (including the Anglican clergyman presiding)--is a minor masterpiece. All three stories are hilarious and full of sly social criticism at once subtle and ballsy. Reminds me of Eveyln Waugh--Bennett is a prose master with a dark sarcastic bent who nevertheless accents the humanity of his characters.

The Poet emailed this morning and alerted us he's at book number 52 for the year, and has two of his own en route. Even Anna Rose can't slow him down...