Dog Catcher [Paperback]

Alexei Sayle (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 18, 2002

The acclaimed BARCELONA PLATES revealed Alexei Sayle as a writer with an outstanding ability to describe contemporary life in an unusual way. Now, in his new collection THE DOG CATCHER, he brilliantly captures the morals and absurdities of our so-called 'cool' culture, populated by characters as recognizable as they are memorable. THE DOG CATCHER will confirm Alexei Sayle's reputation as not only one of the great exponents of the short story genre, but also as a profound commentator on the way we live now.

Editorial Reviews

Review

'Every piece in Sayle's marvellous second collection combines strangeness and familiarity to moving and hilarious effect' -- Independent 'The stories in his new collection, THE DOG CATCHER, won't disappoint fans of Sayle's comedy.' -- Metro 'I read these short stories with real pleasure. A few of them are superb; none is without something to enjoy.' -- Daily Telegraph 'A finely-crafted blend of perceptive storytelling and acerbic witticism, darkly humorous. Sayle's compassion shines through everything, as the characters seem to head steadily downhill, each as recognisable as they are unforgettable. He lays bare the intirgues of contemporary life with a style and clarity that's impossible to ignore and his penetratingly accurate descriptions prove hima thoughtful commentator on modern life.' -- The Good Book Guide 'The Dog Catcher is filled with the black comedy, biting satire and quixotic characters which are his stock-in-trade.' -- Alexei Sayle, ThE Sunday Business Post 20020331 'More twisted but incisive humour from Alexei Sayle in this, his second book of short stories. Savagely and hilariously attacking many of today's 'types', each of these tales are bazaar yet completely believable.' -- The Sticks 20020401 'Dark and unsettling, but leavened with a dry sense of humour' -- Evening Standard 20020401

About the Author

Alexei Sayle is a comedian, actor, presenter and writer. His television work as a writer and performer includes The Young Ones, Alexei Sayle's Stuff, and The All New Alexei Sayle Show. He has written regularly for the Observer, Independent, Time Out, Car Magazine and Esquire and he has appeared in numerous films, from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade to Gorky Park and Swing.

Product Details

• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Sceptre (April 18, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0340819448
• ISBN-13: 978-0340819449
• Product Dimensions: 7.7 x 4.8 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8.5 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 3.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,670,453 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Alexei is the best, December 17, 2003

By 

T West - See all my reviews

This review is from: Dog Catcher (Hardcover)

Alexei Sayle is a comic genius with a twisted darkside to his humor. I read this book in a couple of days because I just had to see what the next story delivered. A couple of the stories could be best compared to koans,I had to sit back and just try to put it all together. I would if I could detail each tale and try to pick the best or worst but I can't,for all the stories had there own little vibe and left me with different feelings.

Another great job by Alexei. I would love to se a full length novel in the future.

2.0 out of 5 stars Truly Disappointed, January 3, 2009

By 

Blusuede (NYC, NY USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Dog Catcher (Paperback)

As a fan of his previous books, "Barcelona Plates" and "Overtaken," I was looking forward to this book of Sayle's short stories published in 2001. The first several stories gave hints of his previous ability to craft quirky sharp-edged characters and satisfying plot twists. Sadly, the overall quality of these stories were poor. The writing was self-consciously intellectual and insularly English. I was unable to continue to finish the last story, a 100 page plodding effort that refused to show any signs of life. Would recommend Barcelona Plates highly and leave this tome in the remainder bin.