Assignment: Memphis

by Lydel Sims, William Thomas (Introduction), Pat Sims (Preface)

150 essays by Mid-South humorist Lydel Sims from his popular and entertaining weekly column, “ Memphis,” in The Commercial Appeal; illustrated with cartoons by Charles Nicholas which originally appeared with Sims’ columns. In 1949 Sims began a career of writing about “things that make the rest of us scream.” Fascinated with language and life’s idiosyncrasies, he explored topics such as “Brainwashing Removes the Worry” and “Clothes Encounter of the Worst Kind.” Historian Shelby Foote wrote, “I began each day with Lydel Sims in The Commercial Appeal. For those who have not known him up to now, this book is a splendid way to them to begin the rest of their lives.” Introduction by William Thomas, Preface by Pat Sims; 274 pages, trade paper, ISBN 9780916242817, $29.95.

274 pages, Paperback

Published February 18, 2016