KALOOKI NIGHTS

Jacobson's entertaining novel features Max Glickman and his bizarre worldview, which seems woefully outdated. Max is a Jewish cartoonist seeking refuge from a persecution complex and a series of anti-Semitic, and Gentile, ex-wives. The story picks up steam when Max's friend, Manny Washinsky, is released from prison and Max is hired to develop a film based on Manny's life. Funny at times, head-shaking at others, the novel benefits from narrator Steven Crossley's narration, which is even more wry and sarcastic than Jacobson's own words. Crossley reads with a tone that appears to mock Max's own words. Despite this, Crossley rises above the material. A bit long, the novel will not bore, but for some listeners an abridged edition may be preferable. D.J.S. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/ MAY 08]