# Lunatics

By Dave Barry & Alan Zweibel

Profile: https://hahafiction.com/books/lunatics-569e4ade/

A disputed call at a girls' soccer game makes Philip Horkman and Jeffrey Peckerman enemies. Philip runs a pet shop; Jeffrey thinks he knows exactly how the world should work. Their next encounter sets off a disaster that leaves them suspected of terrorism and running from the authorities together.

## What makes it funny?

The opening apology cannot survive its first sentence without a fight over who owes it. Philip describes a lovely Sunday; Jeffrey remembers an outrage that demands redress. Readers in book groups recommend the book for its laughs, and listeners also single out the audiobook.

### The comedy at work

The two men take turns telling the story, each supplying excuses for his own behavior. Their feud keeps expanding because neither can leave an insult alone. A pet shop named The Wine Shop, after Philip's in-laws, gives Jeffrey another reason to believe he is surrounded by idiots.

### Try this if…

An option for readers who enjoy hostile partners, crude jokes and a small suburban grievance growing into an international mess. The action depends on accidents and improbable escapes, with the men still arguing as the danger increases.

### Good to know

The language is strong, and Jeffrey's insults include racist remarks and attacks on disability and body size. Reviews also describe scatological jokes and a clothing-optional cruise. The humor asks you to spend time with an aggressively unpleasant narrator.

## What to expect

- Genre: Adventure · Crime & thriller
- Kind of humor: Banter · Farce · Satire
- The atmosphere: Irreverent
- Format: Novel
- Published: 2012

## A few distinguishing details

- A soccer dispute becomes an international pursuit
- Alternating narrators who blame each other

## Sources & further reading

- Publisher: [Publisher](https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/310807/lunatics-by-dave-barry/9780425253373)
- Publisher: [Publisher description](https://penguinrandomhousehighereducation.com/book?isbn=9781101548639)
- Reading sample: [Opening excerpt](https://www.davebarry.com/pdf/lunatics-excerpt.pdf)
- Review: [Publishers Weekly review](https://www.publishersweekly.com/9780399158698)
- Review: [Kirkus review](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/alan-zweibel/lunatics2)
- Reader discussion: [Reader discussion](https://facebook.com/groups/TwoGirlsMustReads/permalink/1699321627533655)