A calculus formula, a calculating boy, a girl who is intelligent but unwise -- these are the ingredients of the gripping story at the heart of Richard Cumyn's new collection. Human relations motivate The Limit of Delta Y Over Delta X, especially the surface tension between men and women.

But even looking at the darker side of humanity, Richard Cumyn finds plenty to laugh about. "The Sound He Made" dares readers to snicker at Bam's bold violence, and "Shel Do the Right Thang" is a funny fantasia on love and marriage.