The Middle Aged Man on the Flying Trapeze

How could such a gem ever go out of print? This collection contains some of Thurber's best stuff. Opening up with "The Gentleman is Cold," one of those stories that are funny just because they're so depressingly true to the petty humiliations of life, the book goes on from triumph to triumph. "Mr. Prebles Gets Rid of His Wife," "The Private Life of Mr. Bidwell" (he breathes), "Everything is Wild," "Smashup," "The State of Bontana"--amusing and unforgettable. There are also some sober and haunting pieces, such as "One is a Wanderer" and most especially "The Man on the Train," a marvellously concise and closely observed story with a punch at the end. Quintessential Thurber--if you're already a fan, you MUST have this. If you're not, then this would be a perfect introduction.