This is a collection of 27 essays that were originally published in various magazines. Each of the essays introduces the reader to aspects of Sedaris' life, whether they be his quirky family or the time he spent living in France with a boyfriend.

Some of the best humor is evident in the essays in which he talks about the struggle he had learning French or as he settled into the various locations he lived in France. One of the best essays talks about a time in which he was sitting on the Metro with an American couple who thought he was a local. The boyfriend was describing how Sedaris was probably a pickpocket.

Sedaris' family is a comfort. While they are each unique, it is clear that they are a loving clan. A lot of essayists seem to have only stories about tough times, but Sedaris draws on the funny moments in his family. For example, his borther Paul is one of those people who has the innate skill of using the f-work like the smurfs use "Smurf." His dad is a typical old world dad, which leands to no shortage of awkward situations.

My favorite essay was called "Youth in Asia," which primarily focuses on the hysterical moments brought about by the various pets he and his family have owned over the years. As the proud owner of a number of furrykids, the moments really had me laughing out loud.

Sedaris is definitely worth a try if you are looking for a good laugh.