Review of The Surreal Adventures of Anthony Zen

[Tara Beh]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Surreal Adventures of Anthony Zen" by Cameron A. Straughan.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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”The Surreal Adventures of Anthony Zen" by Cameron A. Straughan is a delightfully absurd and whimsical collection of twenty-three short stories. Each tale follows the eccentric and free-spirited Anthony Zen as he navigates the challenges of modern life with a mischievous and playful demeanor. Straughan's unique blend of surrealism, humor, and unexpected twists creates a truly entertaining reading experience.

The author's keen sense of humor and the absurdity of the situations make this collection a joy to read. Straughan's clever portrayal of Anthony's character and the imaginative world surrounding him is commendable. Monty the cat and Anthony’s father are two incredibly likeable characters from their behaviours. I would love to read more adventures with these characters playing bigger roles in the story.

The book embraces a childlike wonder and silliness reminiscent of children's books, where anything can happen. However, it also delves into deeper themes and addresses serious day-to-day problems in a unique way. The juxtaposition of lightheartedness with unexpected moments of darkness, such as mass murder and violence, catches the reader off guard and adds a thought-provoking element to the narrative.

”The Surreal Adventures of Anthony Zen" is best suited for adults who want to indulge their inner child with wonder, laughter, and unpredictability. It is advisable to savor this book by reading a few chapters each night before bed, as the constant stream of absurdity may become overwhelming or repetitive if consumed in one sitting.

Straughan cleverly incorporates real-life issues into the absurdity he creates. For example, he tackles topics like loneliness when friends bail on Anthony, or the depiction of Anthony's work acquaintance, Meathead, and his implied drug problem. The author's satirical take on mundane experiences, such as the monotonous workplace at 'WORK,' adds a touch of social commentary.

I would rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.

This book offers a unique perspective on life, blending humor and fantasy with everyday struggles. It's a book that invites readers to embrace their sense of wonder and enjoy the unexpected twists and turns of Anthony's journey. With its distinctive style and imaginative storytelling, this collection is sure to entertain and captivate those who appreciate a playful and thought-provoking read.

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The Surreal Adventures of Anthony Zen
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