The Longest Book Title Ever?

I have just finished reading The 100 -Year- Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson. What an entertaining read! The story is as "unique" as the book title. You have to admit- that title piques your curiosity, doesn't it?? I immediately thought- what's a one hundred year old man doing climbing out a window? (He could hurt himself!!) Why would he? And was it a first floor window? Was he trying to escape from something? Or to something or somewhere? And where did he disappear to? And why?
The author "had me" from the very first chapter with the hilarious exploits of the main character, 100 year old Allan  Karlsson who does not wish to attend his own birthday party at the Seniors Home. He's a bit of a Forrest Gump type, and his adventure is as amusing as it is unpredictable. The author certainly has a vivid imagination and a broad knowledge of world history and events. You could never predict, or even guess what will happen next...  His current month-long escape/adventure is paralleled by the story of past events in his colorful life, when he met leaders and influenced events of the past century.  Harry Truman, Churchill, Mao Tse-tung, and Stalin all "have dealings" with Allan.. (I learned  a lot about past events of historical significance!!) This parade of characters is almost as improbable as the current "colorful friends" he gathers along the way. The zany story holds your interest right to the last page.
A serious read? No. Entertaining? Absolutely!!


Peace,
Linda

"If a book is well-written, I always find it  too short." ~ Jane Austen