COMING THROUGH SLAUGHTER Michael Ondaatje. Toronto, General Publishing, c1976, 1982. (New Press Canadian Classics). 156pp,paper, $3.95. ISBN 0-7736-7028-9. Adult. Reviewed by George Seibel. Volume 11 Number 3. 1983 May. Michael Ondaatje is a well-known Canadian poet, film producer, and writer. Coming Through Slaughter is a highly interesting, puzzling, and in some ways disturbing book. The chapters are structured cinematically. The book deals with the tragic life of Buddy Bolden, a black jazz coronet player. The setting is turn-of-the-century New Orleans. Bolden's story and the vibrant and seamy side of New Orleans are minutely described. Vice, violence, and musical genius come together. The imagery of steamy shaving parlours, greasy hotel rooms, and smoky jazz clubs brings to life the city in 1906. Dream sequences alternative with stark realism that at times matches the best of William Faulkner. Coming Through Slaughter is for mature readers. The language is raw but appropriately used. Social historians and jazz lovers will especially enjoy it. Highly recommended. George Seibel, Widdifield S. S., North Bay, ON.