LIFE IS

Shepherd, best known as creator and narrator of the perennial film favorite A CHRISTMAS STORY, was an early developer of talk radio. The eight programs included here were prepared for syndication in the format of his long-running New York-based program: commentary, often insightful, sometimes genially cynical, on human nature and culture, mixed with middle-brow pop philosophy, storytelling, nostalgia, and just plain goofiness. A natural raconteur, he riffs humorously on loose topics such as "Fate," "Public Relations," and "Playing the Tuba." But many of his references are dated and will be obscure, and some of his attitudes may seem equally dated. If newcomers wonder what all the fuss was about, however, old-time fans will feel like Linus rediscovering his blanket in middle age. W.M. © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2009]