hough not as hilarious as his novel, Me Talk Pretty One Day, David Sedaris' collection of essays is able to stand on its own two feet. Like the rest of his essays, Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim portrays the real-life situations and conundrums the author must overcome.
Growing up, Sedaris thought he was different because he was never interested in sports; he received equipment for Christmas, but never used it. He was interested in watching boys, not girls - Sedaris realized he was gay, but did not reveal this fact to his family until he was older. Like any family, each member had varying reactions that verged from acceptance to denial.
Throughout the book, Sedaris writes in an authentic voice. Based upon childhood experiences, there are moments of happiness, sadness, frustration and excitement; every human emotion felt is present in this book. The author narrates not only joyous times in life, but the bad and the ugly, as well.
The best thing about the book is the relatability it possesses. Sedaris writes about his family, several sisters, one brother and two parents,and everyday obstacles the family must overcome. Instead of portraying his family in the best light possible, Sedaris tells the truth. He leaves no embarrassing story untold, no hilarious moment unscathed; he tells it like it is.
When Sedaris writes genuinely, he shows readers that his family is imperfect. He wants readers to know that no family is flawless and there are secrets and humiliating moments in each one. This truthful tonemakes Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim perfect for the reader who wants to be reminded that his or her family is not the only crazy, wacky one out there. Overall, the collection of essays is another notch in Sedaris' belt.
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