A Parade of Cockeyed Creatures: Or Did Someone Murder Our Wandering Boy? by George Baxt (Van Larsen and Plotkin #1)

In this 1967 mystery novel, New York City detective Max Van Larsen investigates the disappearance of teenager Tippy Blaney. As he delves into the case, Van Larsen encounters a cast of eccentric characters, including a death-obsessed friend, an art dealer smuggling drugs, and an "aunt" with mob ties. Set against the backdrop of 1960s Manhattan, the story intertwines elements of the peace movement, drug culture, and organized crime. Baxt's narrative combines dark humor with social commentary, offering a satirical look at the era's complexities.

Paperback, 1986

Goodreads: 3.45