The Deer on a Bicycle: Excursions into the Writing of Humor Book

I am only going to write one review for all of McManus' books, since essentially they are the same book with more or less the same basic story. This is by far the best humorist in America...except for maybe Dave Barry, but McManus is more subtle and less predictable. If you have never read this guy, let me give you the nickel tour. His writings are collections of essays, most of which have been featured on the back page of Outdoor Life magazine for about 20 years. He grew up in a very small town in the Panhandle of Idaho and rarely moves his stories more than a few miles from home. He has taken all his favorite people from boyhood to manhood and, after giving them all nicknames, tells us essentially true stories peppered with tons of hyperbole. He is an Outdoors fanatic, and most of the stories talk about hunting, fishing, camping and the food related to each sport. I have done most of these, but that is not the appeal of his writing. He just knows how to turn a funny phrase. He is self-depricating, has editing down to a fine art, and throws life philosophy in everywhere. His love for Idaho and all things rugged is apparent, but even the most dedicated city slicker will be intrigued. Pick up just one of his books, and I dare you to not buy another.