by Andrew A. Rooney
Television's version of the old philosopher (three minutes at the end of 60 Minutes), who also has a syndicated column in newspapers, has produced yet another collection. Nobody likes a constant complainer, but in Rooney's case, we make an exception because he gets hold of small truths: "Among the most boring people in the world are those who keep telling you how things used to be. I have old friends who can't stop talking about World War II or how steak dinners used to cost $1.75." Rooney claims he once ironed a shirt and knows that" 'permanent press' is as inaccurate as 'one size fits all' or 'no-stick frying pans.' " He grumbles, "One size doesn't fit anybody, and when I cook in a no-stick Teflon pan and spray it with no-stick Pam, things still stick." Haven't you noticed too that "Computers create the illusion that you're accomplishing a lot quickly and easily. The fact that it's work you didn't have to do which is producing information you don't need is inconsequential." What every country needs is a good three-minute curmudgeon. We've got Andy Rooney. (Putnam, $14.95)
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