Author Unknown: Tales of a Literary Detective

Rating:
Summary: Excellent
Review: When I bought this book, I expected I'd find interesting reading on an arcane topic, but I was happily surprised to find just how interesting lexiconigraphical (I sure hope that's a word) sleuthing could be. How many of us have spent time pondering whether W.S. really did write a particular piece? (Presumably not as many as those who wasted minutes of their lives trying to figure out who wrote "Primary Colors.) Undoubtedly many wondered who penned the infamous "Talking Points", but who would have thought we'd ever want to hear another word on the subject, particularly after we'd been "Starr'ed" and feathered? Even more amazing, who would expected they'd be poring over the book in the wee hours because you can't wait to find out what happens next? Okay, so I'm guilty. I also confess to thinking, "What could anyone possibly have to say about "Twas the Night Before Christmas" that hasn't been said a gadzillion times over every Christmas shopping season?" Well, I won't give the surprise ending away, but I will say Poughkeepsie has even more going for it than we knew and deserves this little plum (er... make that sugarplum). And no, just because I live in the area doesn't make me biased, but it is nice to see the proverbial "local boy makes good." I'd say if you're into lucid verbiage, forensical musings, or simply a good detective story, you'll not be disappointed. Oh, and be forwarned, buy an extra bulb for that Itty Bitty Book Light.