Hodgman, John. The areas of my expertise.

HODGMAN, John. The areas of my expertise. Read by the author. 6 cds. 7 hrs. Abridged. Penguin Audio. 2006. 0-14-305909-2. $29.95. Cardboard; content, author notes. SA

This book is ridiculous, which is what makes it so wonderful. Hodgman, who plays the PC guy in the Apple Computer ads, is a "former literary agent." He takes on a myriad of mostly useless topics, like the history of hobos in America. My favorite section is his description of each of the 51 United States, which includes the state of Ar (part of which can be found in Arkansas) and the 50 space colonies the government doesn't want you to know about. Most everything he says will amuse, offend and occasionally even enlighten you in an inane way. Best of all, you can easily skip to the next track if he gets too crazy for you, but you should be prepared to have his expert use of incongruity affect you, perhaps permanently.

This book is a perfect antidote or anecdote while experiencing road rage or terminal seriousness and will best be enjoyed while with friends or with one's family, as all ages can enjoy some part of this wonderful audio. This is a perfect example of a book that should be read aloud, especially by someone with a voice like Hodgman's, which is authoritative, smooth, wry and sardonic all at the same time. Nola Theiss, Sanibel, FL

S--Recommended for senior high school students.

A--Recommended for advanced students and adults. This code will help librarians and teachers working in high schools where there are honors and advanced placement students. This also will help extend KLIATT's usefulness in public libraries.