Calypso by David Sedaris
Calypso came out in 2018 and shows Sedaris in middle age. Many of the essays centre on a beach house he buys on the North Carolina coast, which he names the Sea Section, and the family holidays that take place there.
It's still very funny, but this collection is more reflective than his earlier work. He writes about ageing, his father growing older, and the death of his sister Tiffany. The humour and the sadness sit side by side, and I think that balance is what makes it special. There's also a memorable essay involving a snapping turtle and a tumour, which you'll have to read to believe.
His stories of his family are insightful, witty and often poignant, and they're at their most poignant here.
Some essays deal with loss and suicide, so it's worth knowing that before you begin. If any of it brings up difficult feelings, please reach out for support.
Why you might enjoy it: If you've enjoyed Sedaris before, or you like writing that can make you laugh and think about family in the same chapter, Calypso is a lovely read.
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What did you think of Calypso? Share your thoughts in the comments, I'd really like to hear them.
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