IF I DIE

There are two things that people should know about this autobiography before purchasing it. One is that it is an emotional history and does not dwell on work, achievement, or any facet of the author's being that does not qualify under the heading of nerves. The other is that Gide was a pervert, who practised reticences in conversation but dwells on its phases with considerable detail here. As a literary story it is disappointing. Appeal? To the morbidly curious, endowed with strong stomachs. To readers of erotica. To those who want an emotional orgy. The average shop away from metropolitan areas will find small call for it.