Customer Reviews

Ulrich Haarburste's Novel of Roy Orbison in Clingfilm

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If you're a fan of dry humor, and you come across a copy of this book, do yourself a favor and pick it up. The title and subject matter are a bit bizarre: Ulrich Haarburste obsesses about wrapping Roy Orbison in plastic wrap, and somehow manages to find himself in situations where this becomes necessary. That being said, the book is not sexual or lurid in nature -- in fact, Herr Haarburste shudders at the thought of his Adonis removing even a single piece of his trademark black clothing or trademark sunglasses.

Worthy of particular note are the last three stories in the collection. These are written in German, and seem to be intended for native English speakers who know just enough German to be able to work out what is going on. It's a testament to the subtlety of the author's wit, that these stories are just as funny as the English stories, written as an inside joke for a narrow group of readers.

I first learned of Ulli's fetish for Roy Orbison being wrapped in clingfilm several years ago. My brother sent me a link to his website, which was among the most fascinating and bizarre I have ever seen. These short stories are hilarious and surprisingly well-written. I guarantee you have never read anything quite like it and are in for a rare treat. Although the image of Mr. Orbison wrapped entirely in clingfilm sets the narrator's heart racing, the fetish ends there--there is nothing profane or sexual,. In fact, the entire event is treated with the utmost seriousness. How the author contrives to do this shows the extent of his wildest dreams and his devotion to the object of his affections is actually a bit poignant. A must for anyone who wants something funny, unique, and cleverly written.