Professor Kittleman's Therapy

A friend passed this book along to me and I was truly surprised to find it is so much fun to read. The author trots out a protagonist who produces a veritable gold mine of new and exotic words in almost every sentence. Professor Kittleman is suffering from an extreme case of narcissism and his total absorption in his own history and needs is both underscored and undermined by the unique vocabulary he selects to discuss his psychological condition. The resulting onslaught of words gushing forth during the therapeutic session produces a parody of academic discourse but still enables the reader to feel much sympathy for the professor. Meanwhile, the contrasting clear and lucid notes of the Dr. Taub, the therapist, provides a needed perspective on the function of the therapy session and the range of skills required of the therapist. I learned a lot about the therapeutic process from this book and also added lots of new words to my vocabulary and crossword puzzle skills. Overall, this book has a lot to offer and provides a great reading experience. In fact, I raced through half of it and then decided to ration the remainder so that it would last a week. I highly recommend it.

This little book is a real gold mine. It's a combination Hitchcock, Freud, Sopranos, and just plain fun. On the one hand you have the narcissitic patient - Dr. Kittleman - himself a psychotherapist who, without giving too much away, has, shall we say, "issues." On the other hand is the reflective, analytical Dr. Taub. The two meet for weekly therapy sessions and each keeps notes on the sessions. From these notes we're taken on a riveting journey through the streets and travails of growing up in New Jersey with a little twist of crime thrown in for good measure. It's one of those books you read slowly because you don't want it to end. In fact, my main problem with it is that it ended too soon. Additionally, the author has a fabulous command of the English language and besides it being a great read, you'll definitely pick up some new vocabulary words. A sequel please!!