My Name is Russell Fink by Michael Snyder

**Review recently edited**

"My Name is Russell Fink" by debut author Michael Snyder is a book I highly anticipated. I enjoy stories that are a little unusual, unique...left of center, if you will.

Unfortunately, this was a little too unique for me. I just couldn't grasp the storyline, and felt a little lost...kind of like Russell. Which, in reality, is a good reflection on Mr. Snyder's writing ability, when you think about it!

Russell is an office equipment salesman...when he shows up for work, that is. Actually, even when he shows up for work, he rarely makes a sale. Which could be why he rarely shows up for work.

But he does call in. And call his doctor. A lot. Seems Russell is a bit of a hypochondriac. And can't get any sympathy from any quarter. Not from his family...not from his fiancee...not from his employer...

Not even from me. Russell...well, he just kinda got on my nerves, you know?

Just about the only person who cares about Russell and what he goes through is his Bassett Hound, named Sonny. And about Sonny...well, I'll just let you read it for yourself.

Now, I was NOT happy at all about what transpired between Russell and Sonny. And maybe that is why this book left me feeling the way it did. Which again, ironically, demonstrates the power of Mr. Snyder's writing.

And please, don't just take my review as gospel.

Because, even though I didn't get Russell...you might. And even though I didn't sympathize with him and his plight in life...you still might. And it makes me a little sad...because I so looked forward to meeting Russell Fink.

Well, I've met him. Now, the rest is up to you. I'm tempted to just give "My Name is Russell Fink" two out of five bookmarks because of the dog, but I'm bumping it up to three, and this is my reason--even though I didn't care for Russell, I do admire Michael Snyder's ability as a writer, and that's really what it's all about--the writing. And I'm adding a copy machine as a charm...now I'm off to find something else to read.

I'm sorry, Russell. I really wanted to like you. But Michael, I look forward to seeing what comes next. Just...leave the dog alone:-)

"My Name Is Russell Fink" releases from Zondervan in March 2008!

Happy Reading!

Deena