Ancient Gonzo Wisdom

September 1, 2009
Hunter S. Thompson, journalist and author of nearly 20 books, including "Hell's Angels" and "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas", once said, "I like to get right in the middle of whatever I'm writing aboutas personally involved as possible." Edited by Thompson's widow, this volume includes 48 interviews produced in various formats from 1967 to 2005. Well-known magazines, including the "Paris Review" and "Playboy", competed with obscure newspapers to interview Thompson, and interviews that aired on NPR and CNBC are included as well. The topics covered include defining gonzo journalism, his year spent riding with the Hell's Angels, the presidential campaign of 1972, talking football with Richard Nixon, favorite drugs, drinking Wild Turkey, running for sheriff in Aspen, CO, and serving as the model for Uncle Duke in Garry Trudeau's "Doonesbury" comic strips. VERDICT Many of the early interviews are repetitive, the later ones are more captivating, and all of them emphasize Thompson's flamboyant and exaggerated style. His fervent base of fans will want this book.Kathryn R. Bartelt, Univ. of Evansville Libs., IN

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