Life among the Lutherans »

First with his performances on Minnesota Public Radio's Prairie Home Companion and later in his books, Garrison Keillor has become a symbol of the small-town Midwest -- its absurdities, its stoutness, and its warmth. His popular, funny stories set in Lake Wobegon manage to evoke nostalgia for a town that never existed.

Fans of A Prairie Home Companion will enjoy this book. Keillor's distinctive voice is there and the collection of stories reflect everything you've come to expect of this master storyteller—with some very funny spots in it. Keillor's pacing and command of every little detail of life in Lake Wobegon from pontoon rides to potlucks is bound to entertain you. Surprise you. And yes, make you feel feel at home, whether you're Lutheran or not.

Introduction 1

1 It Could Be Worse 5

2 The Young Lutheran's Guide to the Orchestra 9

3 Pontoon Boat 15

4 PK 21

5 Gospel Birds 27

6 Twentieth Anniversary 33

7 Deer Camp 41

8 Thanksgiving 47

9 The True Meaning of Christmas 53

10 "Johnny Johnson's Wedding": The Sons of Knute Christmas Song 58

11 Ice Fishing 63

12 The Sons of Knute March 68

13 Ministers' Retreat 71

14 Church Organist 77

15 The Herdsmen 85

16 Church Directory 91

17 Lorraine Turnblad's Tombstone 97

18 The Pastor's Resume 105

19 The Yard of All Yards 113

20 Confirmation Sunday 121

21 Memorial Day 129

22 Marital Memorial Day 135

23 An Outdoor Reception by the Lake 141

24 Lutheran Summer Vacation 147

25 Potato Salad 153

26 Raking Leaves 159

27 Ninety-five Theses 167

28 Lutheran Song 181