Theft By Finding by David Sedaris is a
treasure trove from his diaries 1977 – 2002. This is book one. I
now eagerly await the release of 20023 to 2017. Meanwhile I may go back
and meander through this book again. I’ve enjoyed Sedaris’s writing since
The Santaland Diaries – his short story about his time as a Macy
elf. It is freakin’ hysterical. The descriptions, the humor…I laughed out loud
as I read that . That was also his huge breakthrough. He read it out loud
on NPR and got a huge response. Suddenly, everyone wanted his essays. He wrote
about his wacky family, his upbringing in the South, his being a fish out of
water, and just his droll wit on every day occurrences is read-worthy.
Cover blurb: In his diaries, he’s recorded everything that
has captured his attention – overheard comments, salacious gossip, soap opera
plot twists, secret confided by strangers. These observations are source code
for his finest work, and through them he has honed his cunning, surprising
sentences.
p. 242 September 25, 1990 Dad doesn’t pay
attention when you talk to him, so Paul’s taken to throwing the term IRS into
his sentences. Then it’s suddenly, “Hold on a second, what did you say?”
p. 255 February 5, 1991 Elaine called last
night with a possible job. (work for a small press as a personal
assistant) I think it involves typing, which might be a problem.
We’ll see.
He’s quirky and unique. Theft by Finding
offers a glimpse into an American humor author who’s gifted with a keen eye and
a sharp pen. Sedaris also goes deep in regards to the death of his dear mother
(quite a character herself and a huge influence on David), and also his
troubled sister Tiffany. His writing is not all laughs. He addresses his
addictions and obsessions too. These are diary entries and he does not edit out
the bad and just keep the good. This is a peek into a life and you see his
growth as an author with each entry. Oh, David Sedaris is different and you
have to “get” his humor, but it’s worth the journey and laughs.
Hi Joanne - sounds an interesting book .. and one we could utilise if we have diaries around - I don't write one ... but I do have a set of an aunt's diaries for 5 years about general life - weather, gardening and odd notes ... so this is interesting ... cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteSedaris is a unique humorist
DeleteGood that is sounds more raw as he doesn't pull any punches and keeps it how it was.
ReplyDeleteI did not sense much self editing
DeleteI'll add it to my list. I've read other books by him - he's very entertaining.
ReplyDeleteAnn
Not all fun and games, but unique writing
DeleteVery interesting Joanne. Thanks for a very detailed review.
ReplyDeleteYvonne.
He is worth a look
DeleteI've read some of his other work. I'm sure this one is well worth reading. I'll have to watch for it. Thanks! Have a good weekend! :)
ReplyDeleteif you like his work, this is a good one to delve into. No need to read in one sitting. you can peruse. He opens up his life, that's for sure
DeleteI'm almost ashamed to admit it, but I've never read any of his work. I think it's about time for me to do something about that... (Thanks!)
ReplyDeleteHave a super weekend... OK? (giggle)
Indeed a humorist should read another humorists work
DeleteThe BBC runs frequent series featuring David Sedaris reading aloud to a live audience from his work. It's unmissable listening! If you don't get it then it may be available on BBC World Service, BBC Radio Four or Radio Four Extra online.
ReplyDeleteCLICK HERE for Bazza’s pervasive Blog ‘To Discover Ice’
I have heard him read and saw him live. So genuine.
Delete