A wonderful look through the life of Kurt Vonnegut. In a sense far more autobiographical than anything he's written. Since its through his correspondence with others, and without him knowing we would be looking at it later on. At times heartbreakingly sad, poignant, momentous, and often times humorous. One cannot help but fall in love with the man for who he was and how he lived. He was not without his faults, and he owns up to them, showing them and describing them, to his daughters Edie and Nanny. The letters to them are the most poignant, humorous, loving, and genuine. Its a father's attempt to atone for how he believes his daughters viewed him, for his marriage that fell apart, for his second marriage (which also fell apart). Worth reading for the sense of how you get of Vonnegut. At times its a bit boring, and a bit of a slog of a read, but its well-worth the read, especially for anyone whose loved his writings. ( )

This was easily the best experience I have ever had reading the collected letters of an author, or of anyone. These personal letters exposed so much more of the man behind the public persona. The letters range from many notes to family members and friends, to Kurt's letters to his publishers, and even a letter here and there to people responsible for banning some of his books. His humor was often present, and his good heart was displayed time and time again. He might be casually and humorously writing about setting his house on fire with a stray cigarette, or reflecting on the fact that he was outliving many of his long-time friends. His practical nature was the firm base of many of his thoughts, but the pure whimsy that he loved to express in his books and letters, was such a joy. I'm richer for the reading. ( )

Wonderful, warm, positive, encouraging, emotional, brilliantly written and always very, very funny letters which really make me wish to have known Vonnegut personally. Discreet comments put you into context and help you quickly understand who is whos and whats and whens of the particular letter without disturbing the actual thought. ( )