He blusters and grumbles. He rants and raves. He tries to outgun the school kids chasing after the bus on his route. But in his heart, Ed Crankshaft has a decent streak a mile wide. Patiently explaining death to his grandson Max. Comforting his friend Ralph as Ralph's wife descends into Alzheimer's. Thrusting flowers and candy at his son-in-law on a nearly forgotten wedding anniversary. The star of the hit comic strip "Crankshaft" is a gentle soul stuck in a cantankerous mood. With a supporting cast that includes Ed's two daughters, Chris and Pam; Pam's husband, Jeff; and their kids, Max and Mindy, "Crankshaft" appeals to families everywhere who steadfastly deal with intergenerational cares and conflicts. As one critic said: ""Crankshaft" is a witty, thoughtful commentary on the trials and tribulations of today's senior citizens." But, of course, "Crankshaft" is so much more. The strip's approach to Alzheimer's generated countless letters and e-mails, as did Crankshaft's near-death illness. Hilarious and clever, honest and moving, "Crankshaft" both keeps readers laughing at the curmudgeon's pranks and pondering life's real meaning in this collection, "Your Favorite...Crab Cakes " It's a balancing act that's rarely attempted in the comics--and with "Crankshaft," it works admirably.