Actor, comedian and best selling author, Steve Martin, entertains and captivates readers in his debut novella, “Shopgirl.” He delves into the complexities of love and relationships that revolve around a happiness-challenged wallflower.

Martin presents the tale of Mirabelle, an aspiring artist who shies away from life while using her hard-earned college degree to stand behind the glove counter at Neiman-Marcus. She is a loner who yearns for something remarkable to come her way, but small fits of depression and low self-esteem keep her stuck in this hamster wheel that she calls life.

The story winds the reader through Mirabelle’s life by introducing her friends, acquaintances and lovers who appreciate her when it is convenient for them, thus making Mirabelle contemplate her worthiness in their lives.

Just as the reader is about to give up hope for Mirabelle’s happiness, we are introduced to Ray Porter, an older businessman who nearly sweeps Mirabelle off of her feet. At first he is presented as the light at the end of her dark tunnel, but the lights seem to flicker as we learn more about his bachelor tendencies. However, his character remains constant in Mirabelle’s life, and he shows her that she is a stronger person inside than she ever knew.

Early on, the direction of the story is unclear. Martin continuously introduces dysfunctional characters that play some sort of role in Mirabelle’s life, yet the relationships never seem to have any chemistry or connection. But a fairy tale ending wraps up the story and shows that their involvement in Mirabelle’s life, although sometimes unkind, teaches her about happiness and how to get there.

Even though Martin is known as one of America’s best loved comics, don’t expect “Shopgirl” to be a piece of slapstick literature. Instead, he presents us with a well-written piece of prose that intelligently explores relationships and people’s wants and needs.

Though the story is never laugh-out-loud funny, Martin still writes with a bit of irony and insight into the inner workings of men’s and women’s minds that will keep you amused.

“Shopgirl” is a short, 130 page novella that is written tight and to the point. Martin doesn’t mess around with unimportant details. Whether or not you realize it at first, every character and incident has a direct influence on Mirabelle’s life and happiness.

Martin’s latest work is a quick, easy read that will hold your interest fairly consistently throughout the novel. And the few moments where the book may seem a little dry, Martin, almost on cue, throws in a bit of bold, illustrative and sometimes nearly vulgar language that will perk up your thought patterns, and bring you back into the story.

Above all, “Shopgirl” is a recommended read. It’s a little sad, a little witty and a pleasant little book. I personally give “Shopgirl” 4 out of 5 Sinatras.