This is a collection of a variety of Vonnegut’s writings-his last speech, letters, short stories…all about war and peace. I found the first half of this collection to be more enjoyable and well-written in comparison to the second half. His writings about Dresden are striking; his observations in the final speech he wrote are as sharp as ever. This is not the first work I would give someone who hasn’t read him yet, but great for somebody already familiar.
This is our second bookgroup book for December or January or whenever we get around to it. I have little to say about it because 1) I haven’t read any other Vonnegut (at least not the fiction) so I am told he develops some of these things later but not here and I guess that would have been cooler 2) I guess I am just sick of this genre and while I accept and understand that this is very very well done I can’t get past knowing that it is presently over done.
I just wish I had read this fifty years ago (you know twenty some odd years before I was born).
Vonnegut poses and interesting reason for the meaning of life for humanity in one of his early sci-fi novels. Humorous, strange, dark and at times haunting, a very fun (and quick) read.
Another excellent book by Vonnegut. His style of leisurely packaging up his thoughts on the end of the world by human greed and self-delusion is actually quite refreshing.
And there is a midget dancer; Russian, nonetheless.
This piece of non-fiction by Vonnegut was dead on. His work with outside artists is showcased here, as well as a sharp mind, that even at 82, grasps the complexities and ironies of life. I felt that this gave me a greater insight into the man who’s written such “classics,” and explains the inspiration for some of his ideas. Definitely a must read for Vonnegut lovers, and even for those who haven’t read him.
