In the magazines/school-supplies/cleaning-supplies aisle of Albertson’s down the block, they have a rack of paper-back books. Over the past couple years, they consistently have a David Sedaris book. I know this because I remember seeing “Me Talk Pretty One Day” for months – and laughing every time I saw it. But I never bought it. I also saw “Naked” and “When Engulfed in Flames” – and I never bought those either.
When Uncle Alan would visit us here in Albuquerque, he’d occasionally ask (okay I think twice in 5 visits, but he did ask) if I read any David Sedaris. My response was the same both times he asked: “Oh yeah – I’ve seen those books – but no, I haven’t read any.”
A few weeks ago I was at a Barnes and Noble and they had a sale (buy 1 get on at half price) and I picked up a book that I wanted, and searched for one that I’d get for half price. BOOM – When Engulfed In Flames. I started reading it the next day, and laughed my (large) butt off. He’s really funny – in a sometimes subtle, sometimes blunt way. He uses words to give a very funny picture of situations and events.
I finally picked up “Me Talk Pretty One Day” and read it quickly as well – and I laughed more than I did reading WEIF.
The next time I see a David Sedaris book at the grocery store – I’ll pick it up 