The newly published autobiography of Mark Twain, volume 1, weighs at least five pounds. The only logical way to read it is sitting upright at a table, so the book can rest its fat self. This demands commitment since it’s a very old fashioned way to read.

But, I’m interested in Mark Twain’s thoughts primarily because he is funny. At least his writing is funny.

The book is intimidating by more than bulk. It’s hulky with other folks. At least 10 introductory pages credit various foundations, grants, editors, persons of interest, past scholars, scholars yet to be born.

I don’t know if I can do it but I want to read it all. Any fellow who tried 30, 40, maybe 50 times to write something interesting, which Twain did, deserves it.