This is a first-person narrative by Henry Schiller. He tells about his love affair with Valerie and how he had to win over her father. In the process, Al Kiss becomes the most developed character. Because he is a professional comedian, the book is filled with many short jokes; however, since he is older and has learned from experience, he gives Henry advice such as "a fool takes two steps where a wise man takes none."

Direct quotations are used throughout. Incidental conversation is included. Sometimes it is teasing, and sometimes it is clever. For example: "Would you like a table?" "We don't have room for it in the car. ... " "Do you want to keep your coat?" "Why don't you keep it?" she said. "It likes diamonds and penthouses and all the things kept coats like."

Figurative language is used to enhance descriptions and characterization. For...