Interesting to see his work as it develops. This volume was heavy on his early newspaper work -- mostly fabricated "journalism," letters, etc. Some of the essays are too serious. He gets his point across much better when he skewers his victim with his razor sharp wit. I suspect the second volume will contain more of his short stories and speeches and will also show his darker side developing as he experiences more setbacks. I like reading it in chronological order to see that development. ( )

Endearing. Extremely funny. Much material of a serious nature is attacked by Twain's caustic wit. We need an observer of humanity like him today. He'd skewer the celebrities, sports stars and politicians and show them as naked as a plucked chicken on a spit. ( )