The One-Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson

I was reluctant to read this book despite all the good things I had heard about it with the fear that it would be hokey.  The jacket cover and the title both made me think it would be all gush and slush.  (I tend a bit more toward dark humour in my taste in books). I was, however, pleasantly surprised with this one.  This is quite unlike any book I have ever read, which is always refreshing.

 The story follows the adventures of Allan Karlsson after he crawls out the window of his Old Folk's home and the friends he meets along the way.

It also goes back reveal to Allan's extraordinary life and his 'come what may' approach to his amazing adventures.  This part of the book ends up being a loosely written Coles Notes version of the history of the world due to Allan's very long life and his useful talents. From Mao Tse -tung to the American president, he has many friends in high places which often squeak him out of tight spots.

The events in Allan's life and after he runs away are equally humorous and interesting.  His friends are  varied and quirky. This is one book I am glad I read.