Normally, I would discuss the plot here. With this being a collection of stories and essays, I will change tactics slightly. If you have never read Sedaris, The Best of Me is a collection of work spanning his career.
I was introduced to Sedaris with Me Talk Pretty One Day in 2007. The work was assigned for a course in non-fiction during my time at University. I still recommend that book to anyone looking for something humorous or engaging. I am always disappointed that I have yet to read any of his other works.
When I began this review blog, I made a goal to read this collection. I do not regret that decision.
Writing Style
I recognize the Sedaris that I remember from Me Talk Pretty One Day. He has always been frank and unforgiving, but I find more sentimentality there now. The newer stories were even more poignant and relatable. He writes from a completely different set of life experiences. Somehow, I could still imagine myself in a similar situation.
Did I put it down?
I did take my time with this book. My first instinct was to rush through and enjoy the entire book in one sitting. I was able to digest this better at a slow pace.
Who should be reading this?
There is some language, sexuality, and morbid curiosities sprinkled throughout the stories. The stories lean towards tasteful.
Would I recommend The Best of Me?
I find this difficult to answer. If you have read his other works, you may not need this collection. I am not that person. I will say that see his older material juxtaposed against the newer did create more of a narrative than I expected. There is some merit in this.
The later works spoke to me and left me reflecting on my relationships. He touches on both serious and humorous moments while discussing topics like mortality and alcohol abuse effortlessly. Nothing seems out of its place. In this, many readers will find a microcosm of their life experiences. In the end, this book gave me another lens through which to look at my own life.
Check out the book here!