As a contemporary humorist, J ean Shepherd has become a recognized commentator on American culture. His work includes a synrlicated radio show; a potpourri of stories, sketches and essays appearing in such diverse places as Playboy, Mademoiselle, Car and Driuer and Field and Stream; two television series, Jean Shepherd's America and Shepherd's Pie; and a feature-length film, Phantom of the Open Hearth. Much of Shepherd's popularity rests on his ability to crMte a vivid portrait of the 1930s and 1940s through the eyes of an Indiana youngster. . .