THE WORD

We are what we read. If the periodicals at L.A. newsstands are any indication, we’re pretty dang weird.

World Book & News, Hollywood

* The Quayle Quarterly: A Watchful Eye on the Vice Presidency.

Inside: “Press Clips” offers updates on Quayle’s syntax. A photo shows an “anatomical Dan Quayle doll made by the same Chilean artisans who created the infamous doll that Quayle bought” on a trip to Latin America.

* Pen World

Inside: “Pens Without Caps” is a personal-experience article about losing pen caps. “Dear Miss Inkly” gives advice to pen collectors.

A Different Light Bookstore, West Hollywood

* Diseased Pariah News (for HIV-invected individuals who retain a sense of humor)

Inside: “Aunt Kaposi’s Advice” details new medications. “Etiquette for the Examining Room.” “Get Fat, Don’t Die!” features recipes for chocolate desserts.

Bop’s Newsstand, Larchmont Village

* Blitz Chess (for bodybuilders who play chess)

Inside: Discourses on pumping weights after improving the mind through thinking games.

Melrose News, Hollywood

* Piercing Fans International Quarterly

Inside: “Pierce with a Pro. Part 23: The Eyebrow.” “Hygiene for the Piercing Enthusiast.”

* High Times (primarily for marijuana growers and smokers)

Inside: “Summer Grow Special: Big Yields in Small Places.” “Cannabis-Crunching Caterpillars.”

* Can Control (for graffiti enthusiasts)

Inside: “Can Control Classifieds” includes photo swaps, locations of spray paint outlets.

* Knives Illustrated

Inside: “Stone-Handled Knives. They’re Becoming More Popular Each Day.” “For the Ladies: Checking Out Kitchen Cutlery.”