Halloween (by Jerry Seinfeld)

Noted comedian Jerry Seinfeld reminisces about the Halloweens of his youth, beginning with eager enthusiasm ("EVERYONE WE KNOW is just giving out candy? I gotta be a part of this!"), proceeding through normal trials and difficulties (cheap, flimsy costumes, breaking rubber bands on masks, etc.), and ending with teenage cynicism ("Bing-bong, come on lady, let's go! Halloween, doorbells, candy, let's pick it up in there.").

The deluxe edition contains a CD of Seinfeld performing this routine in front of an audience.

While this looks like a picture book, and the publisher recommends it for ages 4 and up, it is really aimed at older children and adults. Seinfeld did not write it for children: It was taken almost word for word from one of his standup routines, and is a combination of nostalgia and cynicism that is unlikely to appeal to the picture book set, though they will enjoy the goofy illustrations.

But for kids who are starting to get a bit jaded about Halloween, it's a hoot, and one they can share with their parents. James Bennett's illustrations brilliantly match the tone: glossy, bigheaded caricatures, with the main character looking hilariously like a youthful Seinfeld. The CD provides added humor, as no one can perform this material better than Seinfeld himself.

Author: Jerry Seinfeld
Illustrator: James Bennett
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
Publication date: October 24, 2003
Number of pages: 32
Hardcover price: $18.95