Book Review

When You Are Engulfed in Flames
by David Sedaris


Being a long time David Sedaris fan, I can safely say that "When You are Engulfed in Flames" is one of his best works as of yet. Though I'd be quite hard-pressed to pinpoint a favorite, this book has a bit of a different feel than all of its predecessors, and has the best cover art by far. The first three quarters of the book is classic Sedaris - short essays about pretty much any topic that on the surface seems mundane; a visit to the doctor, helping his elderly neighbor with housework, or dealing with a heinous childhood babysitter. In several chapters, he even examines his relationship with long time partner Hugh Hamrick, which he’d only given cursory mention to in his previous books. The last quarter though is what makes this book stand out from all of the others; the actual diary the author kept on a three-month "motivational" excursion to Japan in the hopes of finally quitting smoking. As always though, these tales are told through the witty, biting worldview of David Sedaris. If you’re already a fan, I guarantee you’ll be pleased and even feel a little bit crestfallen when you’re nearing the end of the book. If you’ve never heard of him, you’re sure to enjoy this book as well. The beauty of it, as with all of Sedaris’ works, is that none of them fall into any sort of chronological order, neither by title nor individual chapter. You can pick it on your lunch break at work or even while in the bathroom, enjoy a few good laughs and keep going with your day, looking forward to the next time you’re stuck in the bathroom for a while. Luckily, months before the release of the book this summer, Sedaris appeared on David Lettermen and read a hysterical excerpt entitled “With a Pal Like This, Who Needs Enemies?, chronicling his search for the perfect “masculine” accessory. Video below to listen!

Posted by
Christine Gibboni