Tom Hanks, the celebrated actor, lends his voice to the narration of “Uncommon Type,” a collection of 17 diverse short stories, each linked by the subtle presence of a typewriter. Here’s an overview of the book without using the restricted words or phrases:
In a small town, an ordinary man takes extraordinary joy from a unique hobby. His fascination with typewriters soon resonates through the stories that make up “Uncommon Type.” Each tale unveils a different dimension, featuring an array of characters and scenarios, all connected by the tapping of typewriter keys.
One story leads us to a time-traveling billionaire, another to a bowler who becomes an overnight sensation. We also meet a woman adjusting to a new life after escaping from Bulgaria. The characters are as varied as the settings, including astronauts, journalists, actors, and even Christmas enthusiasts.
A highlight among the collection is a tale of four friends who embark on a thrilling journey in a basement, their adventures chronicled on an old typewriter. Another story delves into the life of a war correspondent who returns home, only to find his former life foreign to him.
Hanks weaves these tales with warmth, wit, and wisdom, offering a look at the human condition’s varying aspects. He takes on characters like Virgil and Caleb, bringing them alive with his exceptional acting prowess. Whether it’s the shy child, the grumpy neighbor, or the ambitious young woman, each individual becomes real, relatable, and remarkably human under his guidance.
The presence of the typewriter in each story is more than a simple motif. It serves as a symbol of nostalgia, continuity, and the tangible connection that binds the characters across different times and spaces. Each key’s strike resonates with human emotions, choices, and the ever-changing dance of life.
From humor to heartache, from realism to subtle fantasy, “Uncommon Type” covers an extensive emotional spectrum. The narrated words by Tom Hanks add depth to the stories, creating an immersive experience for the listener. It’s a book that, like a typewriter, can be both simple and complex, filled with the ordinary and the extraordinary. Just listen to The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece and Uncommon Type after this and satisfaction is guaranteed.