When I heard that Steve Martin was releasing a memoir, I knew that I didn't want to miss it. But I didn't pay enough attention to the advance reviews. I expected a standard autobiography. Well, with Steve Martin, I probably shouldn't have made such an assumption. The nontraditional format here combines examples of Steve's wry humor with the cartoons and illustrations of Harry Bliss.

The result is a quick yet somehow satisfying read, made for random browsing.

The first third of the book boils Steve's performance life down to its basics, shared in the framed style of a graphic novel. It starts with The Jerk and ends with his decision to stop making movies, in favor of turning to television and teaming up with his friend Martin Short. Pay attention to Steve's little dog, Penny, along the way. She tends to make the best and funniest remarks.

The rest of the book, titled "And Other Diversions," consists of full-page cartoons, made up mostly of one-liners. For example: A psychic greets a customer to a new session by asking, "So, what brings you here today?" Hah. You get the impression that Steve and Harry must have had a lot of fun conversations, creating these comics together. They ARE fun comics. They're just kind of unexpected in a memoir, of sorts.

Number One is Walking showcases Steve Martin's humor, especially when poking fun at himself. For readers used to graphic novels, this book will be fulfilling. Harry Bliss's illustrations are great. (And he can draw Steve Martin quite well.) I would say that this book is an optional one for casual fans to turn to.

If you have a chance to pick up a copy to page through it, though, I say, go for it. It will make for a fun afternoon.