There are those of us for whom the name Kurt Vonnegut will always evoke a sense of magic. Vonnegut was one of those timeless writers, a man who spoke both for the times in which he lived, and beyond, into the future.

Since Vonnegut’s passing, in April 2007, a few new books have appeared. This handsome volume, a collection of previously unpublished short stories and speeches, is a must for all fans of Vonnegut and great writing. Exploring the twin themes of war and peace, these pieces sparkle with Vonnegut’s typical wit, wisdom, and humanity, and they also reveal the growth of Vonnegut, as both a writer and as a human being.

Opening with a loving introduction from Vonnegut’s son Mark, the book also contains a letter sent by Vonnegut to his parents when the author was a prisoner of war. Illustrated throughout with Vonnegut’s own art, this book is as beautiful as it is valuable.