A most peculiar and enjoyable collection. Peculiar in its steadfast appreciation of situations which set the nerves jangling. Less drastic than watching a car crash, delicious in small doses. Hamsun's droll sense of humor is evident throughout. His evenhandedness of narrative is wonderfully disturbing, especially during such interludes as the visit to the barber in "Small Town Life." Definitely recommended, a very slight volume, but carefully laden with treasures for the reader to examine at their own pace. Thanks is due to Dr. Philip Thompson who took pains to make this book available to the Maine College of Art's library as a donation in 2001 -- a fine gift indeed. ( )