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This is an astonishing piece of work, Jan 24 2002

I am not a comic book reader by character, but a friend who is introduced me to Spider Jerusalem. I will not mince words here: Transmetropolitan is... incredible. It exudes rebellious, anti-establishment energy in the same way that a volcano exudes boiling rock. I found myself left with an almost irresistable urge to walk into a grocery naked and punch out a security agent after reading the first collection. Some movies have been characterized as "lifestyle flicks" because they're purpose or effect is to teach a hip or alternative way of looking at the world, and Transmetropolitan is like those in some ways. But it's deeper than that, too. The conflict in the stories is genuine and… Read more

Tradional klezmer... most of the time, Jun 21 2000

The Flying Bulgar Klezmer Band is as fine an example of well-played, traditional Klezmer you're likely to find anywhere, featuring excellent musicianship and a tight link to what Klezmer should be... most of the time. But rest assured that when the exception comes, there isn't a soul in their right mind that would object. 'Der Rebbe Elimelekh' is sung in Yiddish, with the vocalist displaying classic Yiddish 'oi veying' and one well placed 'who give a shmeck', and also featuring a truly humorous dialogue between the vocalist and the solo fiddle. 'Alle Brider' is even more adventurous, including a jazzy latin-style trumpet solo; drum solo, and very hip piano solo, as well as some more… Read more

Unlike other Korman books, not one I'd likely re-read, Jun 20 2000

Most of Korman's works, especially those in the MacDonald Hall series, as well as most others focusing on slightly older characters, have the endearing characteristic of being simply written and furiously funny, allowing for appreciation on many levels. Not so with 'Why Did the Underwear Cross the Road', and other attempts to chronicle pre-adolescent life.

Even at their age I found it difficult to identify with any of the characters in such books, and now, several years since, I am still decidedly reluctent to re-read these books, although I routinely re-read such classics as 'Losing Joe's Place' or 'This Can't be Happening at MacDonald Hall'. Do yourself a favor. Buy one of his… Read more