Essential Vonnegut Interviews

In three interviews with author Kurt Vonnegut--taped in 1971, 1983, and 2006--writer/interviewer Miller probes Vonnegut on the themes and theories behind some of his most popular works. Books discussed include THE SIRENS OF TITAN, SLAUGHTERHOUSE-FIVE, BETWEEN TIME AND TIMBUKTU, PALM SUNDAY, and A MAN WITHOUT A COUNTRY. Miller, apparently a friend of the author and a devotee (at one point, he dubs Vonnegut "the white knight of postmodern literature"), piles on the ponderous lit-crit queries and generally overreaches in an effort toward profundity. Vonnegut happily sidesteps the academic blather and, deft and plainspoken as always, delivers his unique brand of humor-laced cynicism with freshness and charm. M.G. (c) AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine

November 1, 2007
This audiobook contains three of the many radio interviews the late Vonnegut gave to literary critic Walter James Miller over several decades. The selection includes interviews recorded in 1971, 1983, and 2006, covering a broad span of the author's career and presenting his views on such works as "The Sirens of Titan, Slaughterhouse-Five", and "A Man Without a Country". Vonnegut discusses his writing process, his thoughts on literature and the arts in general, and his own place in the literary canon. This rare opportunity to hear Vonnegut speak is recommended for all general collections. Whether it is accurate to call this CD "essential" or not, it would clearly make a meaty and worthwhile addition to any library's collection of Vonnegut books.R. Kent Rasmussen, Thousand Oaks, CA

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