Nero Wolfe: The Archie Goodwin Files

I've known Marv since 5th grade so I'm not unbiased, but I consider him one of my favorites because in his own novels he tells a good tale and tells it well. He is also an excellent anthologist. While the Wolfe purist might not want anything not from Stout's own pen, if you're a bit more flexible, you'll really enjoy this anthology.

This effort is actually better than its predecessor, "The Nero Wolfe Files." For one thing, the array of topics covered is more diverse. Since more essays had been written, the editors of this book had more source material to choose from in presenting this. And this gives rise to a very interesting spectrum of opinions. For example, one essay gives a very compelling and persuasive set of arguments that Wolfe was, in fact, born in the United States and then migrated to Montenegro during his childhood. Another essay is just as convinced (and offhanded) in accepting a statement Wolfe makes that he was born in Montenegro and became a naturalized American citizen. Each is compelling and very persuasive. If you cannot get enough of Wolfe, two things: (1) buy this book, and (2) make sure Marvin Kaye is motivated to release "The Saul Panzer Files" or some suc as soon as possible.... [Maybe "The Inspector L.T.Fergus Cramer Files?"]

Very satisfactory, as Mr. Wolfe would say when moved to lavish praise on his intrepid sidekick. The Archie Goodwin Files is the perfect companion to Marvin Kaye's earlier The Nero Wolfe Files. But then I'm prejudice. I'm a long time member of the Wolfe Pack, and I am delighted that the best of The Gazette is now available to all Wolfe fans. The Archie Goodwin Files delve into some of the real mysteries in the Nero Wolfe books: how does the Post Office delivery Wolfe's commands seemingly within minutes of posting the letter, which doorbell rang, and why do secretaries appear so frequently in the books? This book will bring new enjoyment to your favorite Wolfe mysteries.