Diane Asks for a Recount

I have a real crush on Marie-Renée Lavoie. A few years ago, Autopsy of a Boring Wife had struck a few chords, which is rather surprising considering that the narrator was more than twice my age and that our lives had little in common. I've never forgotten it. More recently, his short story Diane ressort sa masse ("Diane brings out her mass") made me laugh to tears during a highly enjoyable reading of barely half an hour.

Last week, I decided to assume I was a die-hard fan and read Diane Asks for a Recount. I then discovered that my ability to laugh out loud, repeatedly, while reading by myself in my living room, had no limit.

Summary

It has been some time since her husband left Diane. We can't say she's completely over it, but at least she's well taken care of, and she's not bored: impossible, with her new job as an elementary school substitute. Her heart has time to heal. And she realizes that she's starting to be ready for another man to step in.

Impressions

I can tell you that I have never laughed so hard while reading anything. About halfway through the book, I was laughing out loud on every page. Diane's sense of humor is a real treat for me: snarky, ironic and surprising, I can't get enough.

The narrative is not the strong point of the novel. But it does have a heartening effect. Diane is a deeply human character and absolutely adorable. She is able to experience the full range of emotions in a single day. She has a heart of gold, but is also capable of hating someone savagely. She isn't tongue-tied. And her approach to life is refreshing and contagious.

I was sad to finish the book. It's the kind of read you wish you could have on hand at all times.

I bought Diane Asks for a Recount to a very good friend of mine for her birthday: I wanted her to have a good time too. Marie-Renée Lavoie is a treat. Don't miss it.