CLOSING TIME

At times hilarious, at times thought-provoking, at times rambling, CLOSING TIME is the sequel to CATCH-22. Unlike its predecessor, the new title is unlikely to achieve classic status. Regardless, fans who appreciate Heller's satiric wit will enjoy this novel, in which Milo Minderbinder and his comrades confront their mortality. In addition, Minderbinder and friends try to assist a friend whom the government wants to turn into an atomic bomb because he is retaining heavy water. Fortunately, George Guidall lends his considerable skills to the recording. While a lesser narrator might lose focus during the book's more turgid moments, Guidall proves again that a great narrator can make almost any material exceptional. He relishes Heller's wit and presents the material with a wry style that meshes beautifully with this bizarre story and its unusual cast of characters. D.J.S. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 04/ JAN 05]