The Sleepy Hollow Family Almanac
Mar 24, 2012
By Kris D'Agostino
Paperback , 336 pages
ISBN: 9781565129511 (1565129512)
Published by Algonquin Books
Publication Date March 20, 2012
This is a sharply sarcastic story that says all the wrong things. Things you think in your head, but would never say aloud. This in itself makes for a funny read, even if you wouldn't admit it to anyone else.
The main character of the book, Calvin, is a slacker extraordinaire. He dropped out of college after wracking up an impressive student loan bill and has moved back home. His mother found and forced a job on him, as a teacher's assistant in a school for autistic and mentally challenged children. Though still a slacker in his mind, he has some surprising talent for keeping his charge under control and learning.
Meanwhile, he's dealing with helping to take care of a friend laid up after surgery (mainly scarfing down his Vicodin), handling the fact that his father has a rather invasive cancer that has him out of work and the possible loss of the family home due to lack of income. His older brother, who has a good career, has moved back in also - but to contribute to the finances (or as Calvin feels - to show off) and help care for his father. Oh yes, his 17 year old sister has just announced she's pregnant.So the entire family finds themselves living together again - though no one wants to.
This book is about being at the bottom of the happy well, when the whole world comes crashing down. But somehow you find yourself smiling and snickering while reading it. You are amused, though you feel you shouldn't be.
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Reviewed by Idgie. If you would like to have the Dew review a book, please contact me at dewonthekudzu@gmail.com
