He read pretty that day

I've read all of David Sedaris' books and plays -- I think he's simply the best comic writer working today. Unfortunately, I haven't had the opportunity very often to hear his readings, making me very pleased when Sedaris released this audio collection in 2003. Recorded at Carnegie Hall in October 2002, he's in fine form.

Most of the stories feature his family and partner (Hugh) who provide perfect fodder for his dry humor. "Repeat After Me" is the longest and funniest section and features his sister, Lisa, and her parrot. In this selection, Sedaris discusses the developing plans for a movie about his life; this movie has been in discussions for quite a few years and one can only hope that it will come to fruition. Another funny story is "Who's the Chef," which involves Sedaris' attempts to find a volunteer job in France; he ultimately works with a rubber-handed chef.

Several of the stories have appeared elsewhere previously, such as "Six to Eight Black Men" -- a brilliant compendium of bizarre Christmas customs from around the world. However, hearing these old stories read in Sedaris' nasal whine makes them sound fresh again. The collection ends with Sedaris taking some questions from the audience -- the questions are rather uninteresting, but Sedaris proves his wit by handily providing impromptu laughs. This collection doesn't give hardcore fans much new material but is still likely to please those hungry for more Sedaris.

The talented Mr. Sedaris

Sure, this CD is laugh-out-loud hilarious, as is many of his books. But how many authors can actually read their stories out loud in front of a rapt and eager audience at Carnegie Hall? Not many, I think.

Mr. Sedaris displays a talent for describing excruciatingly humorous situations, but also can convey moments of warmth and tenderness. "Repeat After Me" is a good example, and I particularly love the ending. "Six to Eight Black Men" is another incredibly funny tale. Like a Seinfeld episode, the story line veers off to multiple ludicrous tangents, only to return neatly, full circle, back to the original starting point. Despite his self-deprecation, Mr. Sedaris is obviously a very skilled writer and perfomer, and I look forward to his upcoming works.

I needed a Stadium Pal for this cd

I listened to this cd while driving to San Francisco in a torrential rainstorm. It not only made the traffic bearable, but I was laughing so hard, I truly thought I might have to pull over.

I've been a fan of Sedaris for years, always enjoying his bits on NPR and This American Life. I've read all of his books and thought about purchasing the super $80 Sedaris boxset with readings from all his tomes. But this cd was a bargain and so hilarious. Several of the readings ended up in Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim, but I had not read or heard some of the pieces he did from Esquire.