Sean Wilentz loves cousin Madeline

This one goes out to Auntie Annie!

Geeky daddy went to a lefty wonkfest today featuring the author of that ponderous 1,200 page (400 pp of footnotes!) tome he was reading over Christmas.

Well, not being shy, he got himself introduced, and the thunderously learned author cheerfully agreed to sign his work, conveniently brought along even though its sheer heft slows down the subway.

Wilentz opens the book, and what falls out? A picture of cousin Madeline!

Needless to say, he loved cousin Madeline, pronouncing her "absolutely adorable".