A Confederacy of Dunces

Without a doubt, the funniest book I never actually laughed out loud while reading. But I spent the entire time pleasantly and quietly chuckling inside, where it counts.

I have known all the characters, every one. I never lived in New Orleans, so those who say the book is entirely place-dependant are not quite right; but I did grow up in Houston, and for some purposes that may be close enough. But no matter where, be it Texas, California, or Washington, these very real persons are findable.

Toole was a genius. I'm sad he is gone, but I am grateful for his gift to readers.