Sedaris's latest essay collection, of which Kirkus says, "Those who have followed Sedaris through the years will find plenty to enjoy."

From the publisher: "For nearly four decades, David Sedaris has faithfully kept a diary in which he records his thoughts and observations on the odd and funny events he witnesses. Anyone who has attended a live Sedaris event knows that his diary readings are often among the most joyful parts of the evening. But never before have they been available in print. Now Sedaris brings us his favorite entries. From deeply poignant to laugh-out-loud funny, these selections reveal with new intimacy a man longtime fans only think they know."

David Sedaris is no stranger to the short-form, but unlike his previous collections, these new tales from life all center around one theme: middle age, mortality, and the importance of family bonds. Think Peter Mayle in Provence, only on the Carolina coast, where even in his vacation home he finds "it's impossible to take a vacation from yourself." Sedaris's observations are full of his trademark biting wit; Kirkus calls this "Sedaris at his darkest—and best."

A master of short-form storytelling, David Sedaris shares his best stories in this "best of" collection. Though his stories revolve around his personal experiences, Sedaris proves to be keenly aware of the world around him, sharing observations about human nature with humor, wit, and ... a whole lot of sex jokes. Both avid Sedaris fans and readers who are new to his work will appreciate this volume of his most memorable work. (I'm currently 90% through the audio version; Sedaris narrates himself, as always, and this new audiobook includes some live performances that are outstanding.)

From the publisher: "David Sedaris plays in the snow with his sisters. He goes on vacation with his family. He gets a job selling drinks. He attends his brother's wedding. He mops his sister's floor. He gives directions to a lost traveler. He eats a hamburger. He has his blood sugar tested. It all sounds so normal, doesn't it? In his newest collection of essays, David Sedaris lifts the corner of ordinary life, revealing the absurdity teeming below its surface. His world is alive with obscure desires and hidden motives -- a world where forgiveness is automatic and an argument can be the highest form of love. Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim is another unforgettable collection from one of the wittiest and most original writers at work today."

Sedaris writes masterful tales of family dysfunction. His best essays make me laugh until I cry (and--bonus!--leave me feeling pretty good about my own family's functionality). But he is sometimes cynical and often crass, the language can be totally objectionable, and the themes ensure that I don't forget to put his books on high shelves instead of leaving them on the coffee table where my young readers might flip them open.

I included this collection of David Sedaris's holiday-themed essays (for the whole year, not just Christmas) in my list of 10 books that are especially good for giving this time of year. Seasonal favorites include "Santaland Diaries," in which he shares his experiences as a Macy's Santa, and "The Cow and the Turkey," in which the farm animals all choose Secret Santa names amongst themselves. Sedaris is not (repeat: IS NOT) for everyone, but if he's your cup of tea, you'll laugh until you cry.