Being an NPR junkie, I first discovered David Sedaris there, reading his “Santaland Diaries“. Next, I found his essays published in The New Yorker. After that, I bought and digested every novel of his compiled writings that I could find. I would include some of my underlined exerpts here, but happily, my essayist daughter has stolen every Sedaris book I had; it was required reading in my house.
Luckily, Sedaris has a new book out, When You Are Engulfed in Flames, centered around his love/hate relationship with smoking cigarettes.
He will be reading from the book this Thursday night, October 1st, at UB’s Center for the Arts. I will be there just as I have every other time Sedaris has come to town because his clever wit combined with his voice and presence make for some of the best times I’ve ever had sitting in an auditorium chair. Once you’ve heard him read, you can read his books with his voice and genius delivery in your head, maximizing the overall amusement he supplies.
Anyone who likes a clever turn of the word, view of the world, or the ability to find humor in the most awkward of moments, will like Sedaris. And if you’re a WBFO fan, know that there is an option to win tickets and a copy of the book through your regular contribution to their fall fundraising event. And if you have a book, bring it with you because Sedaris will be signing after his performance.
Sometimes, we need a good, hard laugh. I’ve got one scheduled for Thursday night. UB CFA, 8PM, $36.50. Tickets are still available.