Well, I just finished the one Hitchens didn't like -- THE SINGULAR MARK
TWAIN -- and disagreed totally:  found it illuminating and easy to read.
Which didn't surprise me totally, given the author's reputation -- and also
Hitchen's love of slash and burn and making himself quotable.  But anyhow,
other reviewers seem to think it's the definitive biography, so don't rely
on one review.

L. Ackerson

----- Original Message -----
From: "Charlie Cogar" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Saturday, December 13, 2003 12:02 AM
Subject: Biography


> Hello,
>
> A year ago I saw Hal Holbrook's performance, and recently read "Tales
> from the Ouija Board."  I think I'm ready to explore the life of Mark
> Twain, and ask if the group can recommend the "beginner's" biography of
> his work, wit and life?
>
> I recently read the review in the November edition of The Atlantic
> Monthly, and don't believe I should start with that work.
>
> Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.  (I'll buy it as a
> Christmas gift from me-to-me.)
>
> Thank you from Omaha, Nebraska.
>
> Charlie Cogar