Early Escapades

Early Escapades EDITED BY PATTI CARR BLACK (UNIVERSITY PRESS OF MISSISSIPPI, $30)

Long before she wrote such masterpieces as "A Worn Path" and "Why I Live at the P.O.," Eudora Welty's sharp wit and insight into human nature were clearly present.

She drew cartoons from childhood vacations, published poetry in the children's magazine St. Nicholas, contributed to high school and college publications, wrote society items for The CommercialAppeal in Memphis, and penned deadon caricatures of Eleanor Roosevelt, Mae West, and Hitler, to name a few.

These Early Escapades, compiled by editor Parti Carr Black, give Welty fans a rare sampling of the legendary author's earliest creative meanderings. Here, the grande dame has yet to achieve her full voice-but it's a kick to hear her warming up.

VALERIE FRASER LUESSE

© 2006 Southern Progress Corporation Provided by ProQuest LLC. All Rights Reserved.