Stein's earlier books did not foretell an ability to pull off broad comedy, but this father-and-daughter bedtime banter is all the better for being a surprise. A little red chicken, lying in bed ...

Though he certainly entertains fans, the book is unlikely to earn him any new ones. However, even Ben Stein shows readers, in a droll, matter-of-fact manner, how to get where you want to go ""by ...