Holidays on Ice

David Sedaris's beloved holiday collection is new again with six more pieces, including a never-before-published story. Along with such favorites as the diaries of a Macy's elf and the annals of two very competitive families, are Sedaris's tales of tardy trick-or-treaters ('Us and Them'); the difficulties of explaining the Easter Bunny to the French ('Jesus Shaves'); what to do when you've been locked out in a snowstorm ('Let It Snow'); the puzzling Christmas traditions of other nations ('Six to Eight Black Men'); what Halloween at the medical examiner's looks like ('The Monster Mash'); and a barnyard secret Santa scheme gone awry ('Cow and Turkey'). No matter what your favorite holiday, you won't want to miss celebrating it with the author who has been called 'one of the funniest writers alive' (Economist). Sedaris's unique wit and observational humor make this collection a must-read for anyone looking to find the humor in the holidays.

Reviews

Fully Booked · 2024-06-05

mixed 3.50

The collection offers a fresh and humorous perspective on holiday stories, though the disorganized mix of essays may not appeal to everyone.

This reviewer appreciates Sedaris's unique take on holiday traditions, finding his humor fresh and engaging. However, they note that the collection feels somewhat disorganized, which might make it less enjoyable for some readers. The essays are a mix of previously published and new pieces, each bringing a distinct, often cynical, view on the holidays. While the humor is dark and comedic, the lack of a cohesive structure could be a drawback for those looking for a more polished reading experience.

Quick quotes

In Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris, the author brings a fresh and humorous new perspective on holiday stories and winter books with his disorganized mix ...

This book is hilarious - leaving images in the mind that return to bring fresh laughter.

Although David Sedaris has been accused of punching down, there might very well be a hidden didacticism in 1997's 'Holidays on Ice'.

Wayfaring Flaneur · 2021-02-25

negative 2.00

The voice in these short stories is strong, but the overall tone is cynical and depressing, lacking warmth or care.

This reviewer finds Sedaris's writing style strong and distinctive, particularly in his short stories. However, they feel that the overall tone of the collection is cynical and depressing, which might not be appealing to all readers. The lack of warmth or care in the essays is noted as a significant drawback. While the dark humor is present, it doesn't always translate into a enjoyable reading experience, making it a hit or miss for different readers.

Quick quotes

While the voice is arguably strong within the short stories there's a lack of warmth or care.

It's cynical and depressing and really I don't ...

This book was very hit and miss for me.

Zeezee With Books · 2019-03-22

positive 4.50

The collection is darkly comedic and cynical, making it a laugh-out-loud read, especially when listened to as an audiobook.

This reviewer highly recommends listening to the audiobook version of 'Holidays on Ice', as Sedaris's narration brings out the dark humor and comedic timing effectively. The collection is seen as a series of darkly comedic and cynical essays that are sure to make readers laugh. The audiobook format enhances the experience, making it a more enjoyable way to consume the content. The essays are varied and offer a unique perspective on holiday traditions, particularly the comparisons between American and Dutch customs.

Quick quotes

It's darkly comedic and cynical and sure to make you laugh.

I enjoyed listening to Sedaris narrate it, and I think listening to the audiobook is ...

He has terrific comedic timing and had the audience – and me – roaring with laughter as he compares American and Dutch Christmas traditions.

Appears in Lists

BookScrolling's Ranking of David Sedaris's Best Books (A Bibliography Countdown)