A dark little joy.

This book is basically 12 pages of witty John Updike comments interspersed with the art of Edward Gorey. It’s exactly what you’d imagine; John Updike making cynical observations about the Christmas season and Edward Gorey’s art making it seem 100% darker and more sinister. I love it. Also, it includes the implication that John Updike watches pro-wrestling, which is a real treat for me. I also enjoy him alluding to Santa Claus being a Stephen King clown monster, and honestly, it’s hard to argue with that point.

Edward Gorey rules, forever and always and it is so obvious how many artists just try to emulate his style.

Title:  The Twelve Terrors of Christmas
Author:  John Updike
Format: Hardcover
Pages:  32
ISBN:   9780764937101

Three Descriptors:  Witty, Dark, Cynical