In Mike Nelson’s second book since the untimely cancellation of Mystery Science Theater 3000 (his first, Mike Nelson’s Movie Mega-Cheese, felt more like an extension of that series), we’re treated to a series of short, humorous essays — sort of a compilation of his successful newspaper column, if he actually had one.
His wit is sharper than ever, and despite fairly routine subject matter — everyday annoyances, parenting, theories on the downfall of modern society — he manages to make it work. Even more impressive than that is his ability to keep you laughing while working almost completely clean. The book practically emanates waves of wholesome midwesternity, and while the author’s obvious discomfort with all things sexual might seem out of place anywhere else, it somehow adds to this particular author’s charm. Writing humor is hard. Writing good humor is even harder. Writing good humor without falling back on the easy shock-laugh is nigh impossible. Kudos to you, Nel-stone. Now quit writing books and get back in that theater, boobie!