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I am not sure if his little vignettes into his life are supposed to be humorous or satirical. I think a lot of my problem with the book is that I just cannot relate to the life of a gay man with, essentially, an East Coast upbringing. I bought David Sedaris's "When You Are Engulfed in Flames" at the airport because I needed something to read on the plane. I do know it took until page 211 to get an actual, out loud laugh from me. O'Rourke and that has got me laughing my rear end off. I think one professional reviewer described his genre as "quirky memoir". I can relate to that.
There were a few more laugh out load moments after that, but mostly the stories just seemed a bit contrived and the author just a bit too sarcastic and whiny. I had recalled seeing some good reviews of his books and they seemed to be quite popular. I think it is the same reason I could never really get into Sex and the City; I just can't relate to a group of mature women looking for romance in a cosmopolitan setting. I guess that fits. The author was describing how he tormented his sisters when he was younger by telling them just before bed that a particular spider they had seen earlier in the day would likely find them again that night. By comparison, I am now reading "Driving Like Crazy" by P.J. I think if you really want to read someone who is funny try Bill Bryson, PJ O'Rourke or even Michael Pollan who can turn a wry, witty phrase just as subtly as flipping a fried egg with chopsticks.
I must have woken up a few neighbors to loud sounds of laughter as I read this book. The story of a cursing couple on the airplane is among my favourites, but every story is definitely funny. 5 stars for this book for giving me many, many laughs.
There was a great depth of emotion in this particular collection, and I found my heart aching for some characters and the author himself at various points in the book, then doubling up laughing again in no time. I find him ridiculous (in a hilarious way) and poignant as an author. I have enjoyed Sedaris' stories for years, in books, on NPR, and on long road trips when I favor his books on tape over all others. All my favorite humorists convey serious messages as well, and all of the best comedians can make you laugh at something terribly tragic without losing the importance of it. This book is my very favorite yet.I have to say that not every story in this book made me crack up laughing aloud. Many did, of course, but not every one. My only regret about this book is that I read it so very quickly -- devoured it, really. I wish that I had savored it and extended my enjoyment as long as physically possible.
Caution do not drink beverages while reading this book because they are sure to shoot out your nose while you turn the pages. David Sedaris is so wonderfully funny and delightful to read that you will put down whatever book you are currently reading to give his book When You Are Engulfed In Flames a fast fun read. My dear friend suggested wearing depends while reading because one might wet their pants from giggling and laughing so much, I have to agree with her. Got it. Read it and have one of the best afternoons ever reading.
The difference is the TV sitcom was funny, entertaining, even poignant. This was my first encounter with David Sedaris. This book is just nothing. Sorry to say it was also my last. "Seinfeld" was a show about nothing - so too, was this book. I don't appreciate his gayness being force-fed and am not impressed by what seems to be an independently wealthy, obnoxious, never-satisfied, pointless life gadding about the globe doing - nothing.I set it down many times and found it more difficult to pick up each time. I felt relief in finally finishing it and did so only hoping that sooner or later I would begin to enjoy it.Don't waste your money or your time.
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