The Best of Me

by David Sedaris
The Best of Me cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Essays / Essay Collections
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Technical
  • ID: 4286
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9780316628259
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2020-11-03
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3

David Sedaris's 'The Best of Me' is a compilation of his funniest and most touching stories, spanning over twenty-five years of his career. Known for his sharp wit and keen observations, Sedaris takes readers on a journey through his quirky adventures, from shopping for rare taxidermy to hand-feeding a carnivorous bird. His stories are not just about humor but also about the profound moments of life, love, and family. /n/n This collection reveals Sedaris's ability to find joy and wonder in the unexpected twists and turns of life. Whether he's struggling with language barriers or coming to terms with aging, his writing is filled with warmth and a deep sense of humanity. 'The Best of Me' invites readers to laugh, reflect, and appreciate the rich tapestry of human experience.

Reviews
The Bibliophage · The Bibliophage · 2021-11-30
heartwarming 4.20

The book is a wonderful introduction to Sedaris' writing style and family dynamics. It's both funny and heartwarming.

The Bibliophage appreciates how this collection introduces readers to Sedaris' family and his unique outlook on life. The essays are funny and heartwarming, offering a glimpse into the author's personal experiences. The Bibliophage notes that Sedaris' writing style is engaging and relatable, making it easy to connect with his stories. The book is a great choice for those looking for a light but meaningful read. The humor is accessible, and the stories are engaging, making it a book that will make you laugh and perhaps see the world in a slightly different way. The Bibliophage highlights Sedaris' ability to find the absurd in everyday situations, which is a recurring theme throughout the collection.

Quick quotes

    He introduced me to his family, his outlook on life, his writing style, and the general ethos of his audience.

    And yes, I laughed plenty.

    The humor is accessible, and the stories are engaging, making it a book that will make you laugh and perhaps see the world in a slightly different way.

I've Read This · 2021-03-02
humorous 4.00

The book is approachable and humorous, making it a joy to read. It's a great introduction to Sedaris' work for new readers.

This collection is a delightful mix of humor and introspection, perfect for both new and longtime fans. The essays are relatable and often hilarious, offering a glimpse into Sedaris' unique perspective on life. It's a book that will make you laugh out loud and perhaps see the world in a slightly different way. The humor is accessible, and the stories are engaging, making it a great choice for a light but meaningful read. Sedaris' ability to find the absurd in everyday situations is on full display, and it's this talent that makes the book so enjoyable.

Quick quotes

    Are you a boring person? Then you are going to LOVE this book!

    Just kidding, lots of people are going to like this book, in fact I think I've ...

    It's a handy collection to introduce someone to his stories.

The New York Times · Parul Sehgal · 2020-11-02
revealing 4.50

The book showcases Sedaris' growth as a writer and his evolving outlook on life. It's a revealing and often humorous journey.

Parul Sehgal highlights how this collection is not just a compilation of Sedaris' best work but a testament to his evolution as a writer. The essays reveal his changing perspectives and the development of his unique humor. Sehgal appreciates the depth and insight Sedaris brings to his writing, making it a compelling read. The book is a journey through Sedaris' life and thoughts, offering a mix of humor and introspection that resonates with readers. Sehgal notes that Sedaris' ability to find humor in the mundane is unparalleled, and this collection is a perfect example of that talent. The essays are thought-provoking and often hilarious, making it a book that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

Quick quotes

    The genius of “The Best of Me” is that it reveals the growth of a writer, a sense of how his outlook has changed and where he finds humor.

    Sedaris' ability to find humor in the mundane is unparalleled, and this collection is a perfect example of that talent.

    The essays are thought-provoking and often hilarious, making it a book that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

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