Reflections in a Jaundiced Eye

King expresses her opinions with the subtletyand effectivenessof a flamethrower in her savagely funny look at American life. Whether taking aim at an institution (marriage), a movement (``Helpism'') or an individual (John Updike), she is seldom off-target and never conciliatory: ``I'd rather be a human mine sweeper in the Strait of Hormuz than read John Updike'' leaves little room for backpedaling. Even if King ( Confessions of a Failed Southern Lady ) were not funny herself, her ability to spot the ludicrous statements of others (a flight attendant after a hijacking attempt: ``He was very cooperative, he's almost a model hijacker'') would make her a top-of-the-line satirist. King's wit and intelligence complement a refreshing angle of attack that allows her to strike at Phyllis Schlafly and Betty Friedan with equal vigor. While readers will be alternately offended and delighted by her barbs, they will not be bored. (Apr.)