Almost last minute notice: Tonight! author Doug Crandell will be appearing at Wordsmiths Books in Decatur in support of his latest novel, Hairdos of the Mildly Depressed.  Crandell’s previous book, The Flawless Skin of Ugly People was shortlisted for the William Faulkner Prize. The novels together represent two-thirds of the planned “Beauty Knows No Pain” Trilogy.  The novels are linked thematically, but do not include the same characters.  You can jump right into book two with no problem.

I just finished Hairdos yesterday, so I haven’t had time to put together a proper review.  The publisher’s web site describes the novel as a “tale of hair replacement systems and brotherly love.”  I thought of the book as a sort of Karl Hiaasen goes to North Georgia-style page turner.  It’s an excellent summer read.  Also, you should not confuse this book…

…with this book:

Completely different books.  Who’d have thought that I’d go through two hair-themed books in the same year?  Speaking of hair…

The publisher says that free combs or toupees will be given away to attendees at the event.  (Come on, you only need one or the other.)  I’ll be there for the free hair.  In addition, Wordsmiths will have a drawing for a free hairdo at Salon Red.  As always, you can get the full scoop from Wordmsiths.