The Autograph Hound

by John Lahr

Hailed as a "tour de force" by the New York Times , this irresistible novel captures John Lahr's madcap geniusMeet Benny busboy at the Homestead restaurant in New York City by day, compulsive autograph hunter by night. Known for going to extraordinary lengths for a much-coveted signature, Benny is also tangled up with an actress and fellow autograph hound named Gloria, and drawn into an embittered battle with his archenemy, a headwaiter with a grudge. Lahr's acclaimed debut novel captures one wild week in Benny's life. It is an introduction to a brilliantly drawn and determined character who will stay with you long after the final page.

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1973

About the author

John Lahr is the senior drama critic of The New Yorker, where he has written about theatre and popular culture since 1992. Among his eighteen books are Notes on a Cowardly Lion: The Biography of Bert Lahr and Prick Up Your Ears: The Biography of Joe Orton, which was made into a film.

He has twice won the George Jean Nathan Award for Dramatic Criticism. Lahr, whose stage adaptations have been performed around the world, received a Tony Award for co-writing Elaine Stritch at Liberty.

He divides his time between London and New York.

Reviews

[Hal Issen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I remember collecting autographs, I am afraid that in this time of selfies the whole concept of this book is outdated.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a slice-of-life in Manhattan and the US during one week in June 1969 from the eyes of Benny Walsh, a simple-minded busboy with a passion for collecting autographs. He has worked for the same restaurant for eight years and has amassed an amazing collection of autographs though his honest and blunt requests. His autographs mean everything to him and he has memorized an astonishing catalog of trivia about each star. He runs afoul of authority during this week and has difficulty distinguishing between the real world and fantasy. I think this pastiche will have limited appeal outside NYC, but I thought it was well done. I'd say Poor Benny, but he would never think of that of himself. Lahr certainly knows his city.

[Nick Firis · Rating 3 out of 5]

interesting read

I felt the story was intriguing. The world was a mix of show is glamour and some gritty New York ala Taxi driver. The writing itself though was confusing at times. Dialogue can be hard to follow, and reality and daydreams mix in way too much. It can be hard to follow what is exactly happening.