Russell Haley: Tomorrow tastes better

By MARGIE THOMSON

Harry Rejekt of Tirau is largely unemployed, of roustabout appearance. But behind his rough exterior is a universe of longing, poetry and obscure knowledge.

He is a simple soul who dreams of meeting Rosamund Wholeheart, a gorgeous creature who lives, it seems, only within Harry's profoundly innocent mind, who will love the English Romantic poets, just as Harry does, and share his dream of a trip to Machu Picchu. Becoming lost in the internal drama of Harry's teeming thoughts, while feeling helplessly frustrated in your desire for things to turn out well for him, is a surprising experience: you will love Harry, in the way you might love a goodhearted but unworldly relation. That feeling of tenderness remains, long after you've closed the covers of this excellent, clever rave.

HarperCollins

$19.95