Although Hocus Pocus does not have the same quality of genius as Vonnegut's classic Slaughterhouse Five, I can assure Vonnegut fans that this similar attack on war (Vietnam, this time) will not disappoint. As in Slaughterhouse, the plot shifts back and forth to different locations and times: Vietnam during the war, a college for mentally challenged but privileged students, and a prison. The main character's acerbic wit is what carries the novel and is its most enjoyable feature. Anyone who appreciates Vonnegut's social commentaries will revel in the passages of Hocus Pocus that carry the reader on to the hilariously dark ending. Vonnegut has mastered his approach to science fiction/fantasy/war novels. Anyone who has not yet read a Vonnegut novel is missing out...