A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists contain thirty-six stories by Radu Guiasu. Many of his stories relate to education. The stories that seem to discuss the author's life are laced with sarcasm. Guiasu details a post-graduate life, a job teaching remedial algebra to high school students, growing up in Communist Romania, defending himself against a bully, an encounter with a bear, how he destroyed a well-loved musical instrument over someone's head, a letter to John Hammond, and many more. Guiasu also includes a humorously persuasive argument to save a yellow-bellied scum sucker and brief anecdotal works like questions that may be unwelcome at a high school reunion.

Radu Guiasu's anthology is narrated with a flair for storytelling and plenty of wit. Some pieces are wonderfully ironic while others almost reflect stream-of-consciousness writing as Guiasu keeps the reader engaged by moving seamlessly from one topic to the next. Many of the stories seem like nonfiction, but some are obviously fictional, like the microchip that took over the actions of its host. My favorite pieces involved lists of reasons the chicken may have crossed the road and a discussion about what may happen if you have an elephant in the room. Individuals who like to read but have very little time to do so can absorb one of these stories as they wait for an appointment or eat their lunch. Readers who enjoy a diverse selection of brief and entertaining pieces will love A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists.

A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists by Radu Guiasu masterfully turns the seemingly mundane into sources of delight and amusement. This anthology, which spans thirty-six short pieces, draws heavily from Guiasu's rich tapestry of experiences—be it the challenges of growing up under a dictatorship in Romania, the rigorous demands of academic life, or the simple pleasures of exploring nature. Guiasu's collection is not confined to conventional storytelling; it is a vibrant medley that includes prose fiction and innovative literary forms such as all-dialogue stories and hermit-crab pieces. This variety ensures that readers are continually surprised, never knowing what’s coming next.

I knew I would be entertained from the moment I saw the cover, and I wasn’t disappointed. A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists is exceptionally well written, amazingly humorous, and completely zany. The humor is intelligent and clean, characterized by Guiasu's wry, satirical voice. Readers are invited to chuckle at the absurdities of life, academia, mosquitoes, and class reunions. Whether through the lens of a beleaguered researcher, a whimsical nature enthusiast, or a youth navigating the peculiarities of a dictatorship, Guiasu finds the lighter side of life's challenges. Choosing a favorite is difficult, although the ex-girlfriend’s cat story made me laugh so hard I scared my cat. This anthology is a testament to Guiasu's talent as a storyteller and humorist. It is a refreshing and enjoyable collection that will leave readers with a smile, eager to see what whimsical tale or witty observation Guiasu has in store next. I, for one, can’t wait!

Often, before I write a book review, and especially when I’ve really enjoyed the book, I research the author. When I hunted down Radu Guiasu, I was delighted to learn he teaches botany at a local university and that his students say he “has the funniest stories to share with his class.” Well, if what he shares with readers in A Good Day and Other (Mostly)Humorous Stories and Lists is any indication, I almost wish I could attend university all over again…provided Radu is my lecturer. Whether Radu is sharing his childhood recollection of a class bully who demanded he turn over a prized model car or pointing out why Jurassic Park dinosaurs couldn’t survive in today’s climate, he keeps readers grinning. His clever dialogue piece, The Date, in which a woman is so intrigued by the unambitious date that she wants to get to know him better is an unexpected and delightful twist.

And then there are the “lists” Guiasu has compiled. I enjoyed these best of all. Lists like what not to say at your 40th high school reunion, e.g. “Please don’t feel you have to bring me up to date with everything that’s happened to you since high school.” Or, traits of other species that he admires like “a skunk’s talent for clearing the room” or “a chameleon’s tendency to blend in.” What an incredible wit Radu Guiasu has! I dare other humor writers to come out with so many funny one-liners. Honestly, there is enough material in his lists to keep a stand-up comedian’s audience in stitches. If Radu ever decides to leave teaching, he’d be a hit on Canada’s Got Talent. Speaking of writers, they are the ones who will most appreciate Radu’s “Submission Guidelines” and “An Honest Rejection Letter” which tells hopeful authors that “Sometimes, we encounter promising stories, but yours was certainly not among them.” Dear reader/writer, have you ever gotten a rejection letter like that? I’m trying not to laugh. A wonderful escape if you're having a no-good, horrible, terrible, very bad day!

A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists by Radu Guiasu is a compilation of amusing and engaging tales that delve into various themes like the struggles of recent graduates, comical insights on teaching ethics, the absurdities of modern life, and the peculiarities of human behavior. The author draws inspiration from his experiences in academia, nature, and his upbringing in Romania. Each story or list offers a distinct perspective, ranging from light-hearted encounters with mosquitoes to mishaps during hiking expeditions and a humorous critique of the creation of Jurassic Park. The book also touches on serious topics such as environmental awareness and the decline of traditional media. Through a blend of humor and insight, Guiasu encourages readers to navigate life's complexities with a smile.

A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists is a thought-provoking book covering a wide range of topics. Guiasu uses various literary forms, including prose and creative pieces like all-dialogue stories and a mock rejection letter. His writing exhibits clean, intelligent humor infused with satire, providing readers with an enjoyable escape that highlights the joy and absurdity found in everyday life. The narratives address significant themes, such as dictatorship, oppression, the challenges of modern work culture, and the hypocrisy present in everyday life. Additionally, the book discusses systemic flaws in the education system and health care, while also reflecting on the importance of social skills in an increasingly disconnected world. Through wit and clever storytelling, the author encourages readers to contemplate pressing social issues while providing entertainment. Life can be stressful and disheartening, but finding humor in it has a unique ability to alleviate tension, foster connections with others, and offer a fresh perspective on challenges. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone who appreciates insightful social commentary paired with humor.