NEW TREASURY OF GREAT HUMORISTS

One has to wonder how the people at Dove define "humorist." Sure, there are true humorists in the collection: Dave Barry, Calvin Trillin, Garrison Keillor and Russell Baker. But there is an equal number of writers delivering works that are quite sincere and heartfelt, some almost sad. Even Garrison Keillor delivers a piece that leaves the listener with more of a somber thought than laughter. Jonathan Winters' mock answering machine messages deliver a much-needed hearty laugh at one point. But, still, this collection has the feel of having been put together with little care or attention, and titled with even less. S.B. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: JAN 97]