Humorist, essayist David Sedaris to read recent book at auditorium

On his last visit to IU in 2007, David Sedaris offered readings from his then-upcoming release, 2008’s “When You Are Engulfed in Flames,” followed by a book signing.

A large number chose to stay and meet the author, and he obliged.

“He was here until about 1 or 2 signing books for his fans,” Maria Talbert, events coordinator for the IU Auditorium, said. “He’s very generous to his patrons.”

Sedaris will return to the stage as the auditorium’s season debut at 8 p.m. today, hot on the heels of his new release, “Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: A Modest Bestiary,” released Sept. 28. Tickets are still available at the auditorium box office and website.

Sedaris, one of America’s preeminent humorists and essayists, will read from his new release, in addition to essays from his older collections. He will also sign books following the reading.

Sedaris will debut new material for his next collection, gauging audience interest and reception to decide if the work is worth pursuing — a practice for which Sedaris is known to do.

“Not only is the audience going to be able to hear new stuff, but they will be contributing to his next book,” Talbert said. “It’s like we’re part of the creative process.”

Prior to Sedaris’ reading, English professor John Schilb will lead a discussion on how Sedaris’ work aligns with traditional American humor writing at 7 p.m. at the Grand Hall in the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center. Schilb, the Culbertson Chair of Writing, will also discuss principles of humor writing displayed in Sedaris’ writings.

“He amuses us by calling our attention to things, behavior and types of people we often overlook or take for granted,” Schilb said. “While at the same time, he’s willing to make fun of himself and thereby get us thinking about our own imperfections.”

Sedaris, perhaps best known as a frequent contributor to PRI’s “This American Life,” emerged in 1992 when NPR featured his memoirs of working with a department store during the Christmas season, “The SantaLand Diaries.” Sedaris released his first collection of essays, “Barrel Fever: Stories and Essays,” in 1994. His 2001 release, “Me Talk Pretty One Day,” won the Thurber Prize for American Humor and was optioned for a feature film by Columbia Pictures before Sedaris left the project.
 
His next release, “Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim,” reached No. 1 on the New York Times Bestseller list. The audio version of the book, as well as a live performance album at Carnegie Hall, were both nominated for Grammy Awards.
Schilb said Sedaris’ legacy is pronounced in the spectrum of American humor writing by reviving the principles of American humor.

“He’s an increasingly significant American humor writer. In part, he’s become so because of his sheer productivity. He writes and performs a lot,” Schilb said. “But he also brilliantly extends the American tradition of comedic storytelling through his stylistic craft, his sharp insights and his sterling wit.”

Talbert said Sedaris’ delivery and dry humor will keep audiences entertained.
“They are going to have a blast. They’ll be laughing until they cry, just like when they read their books,” Talbert said. “I dare anyone to listen to his stories and not laugh out loud. It’s pretty much impossible.”