"Jay Got Married" consists of 9 humorous and, sometimes, poignant essays chronicling the ironies of everyday life in word and picture. Take for example the lead essay, aptly titled, "Jay got Married," where I find myself mired in a horrendous dream. In the fantasy, my aging father--dressed in his favorite Champion t-shirt with stains covering the front--marries my wife and I like he did 42 years ago but, this time around, the my 92-year-old ex-clergy dad forgets his lines causing me to coach him through the event with hints like: "the rings, the rings." All the while, my best man sings Sonny and Cher's, "I Got You Babe." Finally married, my wife and I end the ceremony with a kiss. But as I turn to exit, my eyes catch a glimpse of the bridesmaid who is no longer my wife's best friend but now Gal Gadot from Dell Comics and Wonder Woman Fame. She is dressed in full Wonder Women regalia and looks totally shocked by the whole affair. My mother turns to my father (who was then in attendance in the audience) with a quizzical look and says, “Dad, look at that bridesmaid. Isn’t that Superman?” She doesn't get out much. As we exit the church, and the rice flies, my wife ignores the limo and takes off on a sleek motorcycle, leaving me in the lurch--hence the cover. Sure, it's crazy. But, in truth, what would one do when faced with the prospect of losing their beloved wife after 42 years. At age 67, would they remarry? Would they even want to remarry? In another James Robinson, Jr. fantasy, would they once again be paired up with Wonder Woman, in a surprise ending? These and other hot-button issues are answered in: "Jay Got Married."
James Robinson Jr. introduces himself logically – “INTRODUCTION” – and he became an instant friend, I think. I have reservations; I loved the illustrations but was wary of the humour displayed before I reached the first of the nine essays. Fragment, containing many fragments, denounces other authors with gay abandon, but actually centres on English teachers who mark down essays containing – fragments, followed by book editors who do likewise. Frazzled, I read on, and I have no right to complain; there’s a warning on Beware the Black Jellybean. “This essay contains graphic subject matter and may not be suitable for readers with any dignity or sense of self-worth whatsoever.” Hooked, I read on to the end of Jay Got Married by James Robinson Jr.
Anthologies intrigue me – any genre, fiction or non-fiction – but I have never read one comprised of essays before. So, which were my favourites? Other readers will choose their own but, for me Reel to Real, the longest, takes second prize. Note: “Due to Graphic Content, Reader Discretion is Advised.” Mr Robinson Jr. tackles movies and how to get into the cinema to see them on a child’s ticket when he was overage and, worse, oversized. Next, for me, is the last. I’ll Be Home For Christmas; I couldn’t resist the aftermath, particularly the lady who dealt with her decorated tree by pushing it into a corner and covering it. My winner? I defy anyone to read Jay Got Married in solemn silence; James Robinson Jr. writes brilliant comedy.