by William Browning Spencer

isbn: 1565048709
subject: Fiction and Literature, SF
finished: 3/5/1998

Harry Gainesborough is the author of Zod Wallop, a dark and ugly book he wrote while spending time in a mental institution after having his life shattered by the death of his daughter. After the original is destroyed he writes a happier version of the book, which becomes an instant children's classic. Later, through a bizarre group of characters from the institution, the original version of Zod Wallop takes on a life of its own, pitting them against some really evil corporate characters, and other monsters. Zod Wallop is well written and is very funny in places. It reminds me of Jonathan Carroll or Neil Gaiman's work (and that's a compliment). Spencer avoids the obvious sappy ending, and the result is a gripping and enjoyable book. Recommended.