A Portrait of the Entrepreneur As a Young Man by Bob Epstein is a very humorous novella that had me enjoying myself. This is a perfect example of a short and sweet read; however, that does not mean it lacks in substance. In less than 90 pages, the author was successful in conveying his message while also entertaining me, which I believe is a great feat. Tad is just a tad bit eccentric and very, very interesting. Usually, comic protagonists lack growth, but it was not the case with Tad. He grew, he suffered, and he made me laugh all at the same time.

Set in the 1970s, Tad's story is one of an aspiring real estate agent who wants nothing more than to avoid the war and start his life the way he wants. However, his dreams appear to be just dreams, unless he is able to get deferred and avoid being drafted to fight in the Vietnam War. He is not above taking drastic measures to ensure that he stays far away from the war, even if it means he makes a fool of himself in front of people. However, just when he is about to succeed, he is kidnapped. Who has kidnapped him? Why did he do it? And most importantly, what will happen to Tad’s dream now?

This is such a great story. I enjoyed the fast pace, the crisp dialogues, and the overall storyline. I loved how the story was not too long or too short; it was the perfect length to enjoy. I read it in a single sitting and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Tad is the perfect protagonist and he fits so well into this setting. He was witty, made all the right jokes and handled himself well under pressure. He started as a man who was chasing after his dream and, by the end of the story, he was still that man but better and more mature! Loved it!

A Portrait of the Entrepreneur As a Young Man by Bob Epstein is the story of Tad, a trust fund rich kid who wants to avoid going into the army so he can pursue his dream of running his own real estate business. Things take an unusual turn as the story progresses and the plot has some definite comedic moments to it. Tad lives a golden life but is under the delusion that he has suffered. Tad is not a likable person, but there are some similarities to him and other people in the news today; I won't say who. He is quite arrogant and at times I thought he deserved whatever came his way.

The story is set in the '70s and there is attention to detail in the setting and time period. It does move between a few different characters including Paco, a soldier fighting in the Vietnam War, but it is ultimately Tad's story. The other characters help fill out the background. I think that Bob Epstein has written an entertaining book with A Portrait of the Entrepreneur As a Young Man. The story is a short read and moves at a decent pace. I think it will do well on the market given current figures in the media, but definitely as a comedy. It is well written and I would recommend it. Definitely suitable as a quick read for readers who are looking for something to fill their commute or lunch break.