"Happiness" pages 1-50

This is a reflection of the first fifty pages of "Happiness" by Will Ferguson. My first impression: I believe this book to be a great read. I am already thoroughly enjoying the overall plot and especially the various quips of sarcastic humor. It was hard at first more me to relate to Edwin de Valu's pessimistic view of life and his constant need to criticize and make fun of every other character in the story. For example, the character of May seems to be one of his closest, if not only, friends in his life. Yet, one of the very first things which I get to learn about her in reading the book is how aparently overweight she is. Edwin is not a very good friend if you ask me. Perhaps he is just jelous of her ability to be content with her job. I do however feel sorry for Edwin in certain cases. His wife Jenni, for instance, seems to be his complete polar opposite. I can understand how his more pessimistic, maybe realistic, view of life clashes with her constant need to better herself through trivial fad diets and reading advice magazines.
It seems as if the only forseeable spot of light in Edwin's future is in the manuscript of Tupak Soiree's "What I Learned on the Mountain." Is this the ultimate self'-help book? Can it possibly guide Edwin away from his dreary and depressing lifestyle? Time will tell, that's for sure.

Thoughts and responses are appreciated,

Sarah