Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris (2000): A Review

Title: Me Talk Pretty One Day

Author: David Sedaris

Publication Year: 2000

Pages: 272

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Genre: Essay, Humor

Source: Audiobook @storytel.tr

Opening Sentence: ANYONE WHO WATCHES EVEN THE SLIGHTEST amount of TV is familiar with the scene: An agent knocks on the door of some seemingly ordinary home or office. The door opens, and the person holding the knob is asked to identify himself. The agent then says, “I’m going to ask you to come with me.”

If you are a fan of humor and stand-up comedy, “Me Talk Pretty One Day” by David Sedaris is a must-read, especially the audiobook narrated by the author himself, which includes some bonus performances.

“Me Talk Pretty One Day” is a collection of humorous essays about Sedaris's childhood and his adult life in France. I assure you that it is both hilarious and occasionally disturbingly amusing. You'll find yourself asking, “Why would you do that?” or “Why would you say that?” But Sedaris consciously crafts these disturbingly funny stories and allows them to sink in, and if they don't resonate, well, that’s your loss.

I often wonder how someone can write about their family while navigating potential ramifications or conflicts. I have plenty to share about my own family, but I would never put it in writing—it takes courage and perhaps a bit of indifference or hatred to do so! I believe Sedaris is unique in this respect; I read that he originally planned to turn some of his stories into movies but ultimately backed off because he didn’t want to see his family on screen. He clearly cares, but that doesn't stop him from discussing his father, mother, and his siblings, particularly his sister Amy. Amy is both my favorite and least favorite character. The pranks she pulls and her antics make me laugh so hard that I often find myself cringing in disbelief.

If you're trying to learn a new language and have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a country where that language is spoken—whether to learn the language or simply to be with your partner—you can definitely pick up a few tips from David, NOT TO DO!

One of my favorite parts of the book is “The Youth in Asia.” I can’t think about that section without laughing! I listened to this while commuting and hope people didn’t think I had some issues when I started laughing at seemingly random moments. Oh, almost forgot. The second favorite is “The Learning Curve.”

If you want a good laugh—one that’s a bit strange—this book is for you.