Publication

2007-10-01 - Featherproof Books

Language

English

Word Count

48,000 words, Guess

Page Count

192 pages

Physical Format

Paperback

Identifiers

  • Internet Archivehidingout0000mess
  • ISBN-100977199231
  • ISBN-139780977199235
  • Goodreads1067589
  • LibraryThing3209535
and 4 more

Classifications

  • LCCPS3613.E875H54 2007
  • LCCPS3613.E875 H54 2007

Description

Time Out Chicago books editor Messinger has a few gems sandwiched between predictably sardonic musings on failed relationships and poor life decisions in his debut collection. The opening piece, Captain Tomorrow, expertly captures a mixture of teenage summer malaise and a hint of innocence lost, but it's not until several stories later, with the man-eating wolf farce Not Even the Zookeeper Can Keep Control, that the reader encounters something other than recycled humor. Ironic kookiness seems to be the order of the day: a child with a large head gets stuck in a fence; there's a machine shaped like a large ear of corn and known as The Hummingbird; and there are several hidden stories wedged into the text. Scattered throughout are hints of Messinger's talent, and these are found in stories that explore burgeoning teen sexuality - notably One Valve Opens and The Birds Below. The familiar-feeling patina of self-consciousness will turn off as many readers as it hooks.

Subjects

Other Editions

  • Hiding OutPaperbackFeatherproof Books2007-10-01

Reader Reviews

No reviews yet for this book.

Be the first to share your thoughts!