The book seems to have been written as an audio book recording and then transcribed to a book, which is why the audio book is so superb. The authors really bring the characters to life, using different accents for each one. One should not only read the book or only listen to the audio book, but should enjoy both versions. The last chapter where all the characters come together in a courtroom is particularly funny in the audio book version.
One reason the book is completely necessary is due to the photos of the Wigfieldians, portrayed by the authors in full costume and make up. Designer Todd Oldham did all the styling and photography. The picture of Stephen Colbert as Raven, the big-boned stripper at the "Twat Shop,” clad in nothing but fishnet pantyhose and a bejeweled g-string, is worth the $13.95 alone. And Amy Sedaris appears unrecognizable as Mayor Halstead, who really likes fudge, and Mae Ella Padgett and Dottie Fore, the two 40-something women competing for the title of the oldest person in town. But each resident has their own hilarious and detailed portrait.
Wigfield is as silly as silly gets, but only on the surface. The humor is dark, the story is serious, and the characters are ridiculous. Fans of the Strangers With Candy series would be familiar with the irreverent tone, and would embrace these unlovable ruffians. And, really, the illiterate could even enjoy this underrated cult-hit novel.
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