Second Hand
by Michael Zadoorian
W.W. Norton

"Personally, I find new things boring. They have no history, no resonance. I feel at home with junk." These simple words spoken by the protagonist of "Second Hand" summarize the premise of this hip, fun story by first time novelist Michael Zadoorian.

The story centers on Richard, owner of a thrift store outside of Detroit. Richard has been collecting junk for years without complications when his mother's death and a new romance force him to re-evaluate the worth and meaning of second hand items. What ensues is a comical, thoughtful, unpretentious look at American materialism and sentimentality.

In Richard, readers will find an extremely likable character. He's self-deprecating and eccentric, sympathetic and realistic. And he has a few words of wisdom to pass on about our culture of consumption.

At about 270 pages, "Second Hand" is a quick, enjoyable read. Zadoorian's straightforward prose keeps readers zipping along — entertained and pleased with this simple, satisfying story.

While both the character of Richard and Zadoorian's examination of the worth of junk are great, the storyline of Richard's romance with fellow junker Theresa is lacking. It is difficult to understand why cool Richard would put up with a woman as encumbered and whiny as Theresa. Certainly, their mutual love for thrift stores and garage sales is a starting point, but on the whole their relationship is unsympathetic and unconvincing.

But whatever the Richard/Theresa storyline lacks, Zadoorian makes up for in his portrayal and appraisal of "junk" in our culture. He presents the value and history of second hand items in such a real, insightful way that most readers will come away with a deepened appreciation for those cowboy boot salt and pepper shakers at the flea market and that 1950s facial mister at the neighbor's garage sale.

All in all, "Second Hand" makes for great summer reading. It's hip, happy, charming, and even a little profound.

— Diane Grypp (gryppd@hotmail.com)