LAUGHS LAST BY DYLAN BRODY

 

Laughs Last by Dylan Brody
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Laughs Last” by Dylan Brody is a poignant exploration of family, legacy, talent, and the fluidity of time. Set against the backdrop of a disjointed timeline, the novel follows the life of our protagonist, Damon Blazer. Here are the key elements that make this book unique:

The Weight of Memory:
There may not be boxes strong enough for the weight of memory, but some books can bear it. “Laughs Last” is one such book.
Damon Blazer’s journey into adulthood unfolds in fits and starts, revealing layers of complexity. His quick mind and instinct to flee (preferably before getting punched) shape his experiences.

Family Lessons:
Blazer’s family laughs never mean just one thing. From his brutish and detached brother to his grieving but understanding mother, each family member imparts lessons.
However, it’s the inheritance of his grandfather’s wisdom that truly forms the backbone of Blazer’s biography.

The Storied Comedian:
Damon’s relationship with a storied comedian adds intrigue. The slow reveal of what happened at his grandfather’s funeral keeps readers engaged.
The disjointed timeline runs like an extended callback, emphasizing the urgency of storytelling.
Stages of Grief Across a Lifetime:
As Damon navigates life, we witness the stages of grief revealed across decades. Memories enlarge through tunnel vision or the actual weight of time.
Is nostalgia a water-colored feeling available at any age, or does it flow with the facts of chronology?

Avoiding Foolishness and Hacks:
Blazer fumbles to avoid feeling foolish, being a hack, and living a lifetime of mediocrity.
In this journey, we meet a novelist for a new century—Dylan Brody.

In “Laughs Last,” Brody deftly weaves humor, vulnerability, and introspection. The novel invites readers to ponder the enduring impact of laughter, the weight of memories, and the passage of time.



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