Plot Summary

Calypso

David Sedaris
Guide cover placeholder

Calypso

Nonfiction | Essay Collection | Adult | Published in 2018

Book Brief

David Sedaris

Calypso

Nonfiction | Essay Collection | Adult | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

261

Format

Essay Collection • Nonfiction

Topic
Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

David Sedaris's Calypso is a collection of 21 essays and sketches where he explores deeply personal and dark themes, such as family dynamics, aging, and mortality. While anticipating joyous times at his new beach house, he grapples with his sister Tiffany’s suicide, his father’s declining health, and his own aging. Essays like "Now We Are Five" and "A Modest Proposal" highlight his unique humor and poignant reflections on family, relationships, and living authentically. Topics include suicide, mental health challenges, and substance use.

Humorous

Bittersweet

Contemplative

Emotional

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

153,185 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

David Sedaris's Calypso has been praised for its dark humor and insightful reflections on aging and family dynamics. Readers appreciate his wit and ability to find humor in the mundane and tragic moments of life. However, some critiques note that the book's tone can be uneven, oscillating between deeply moving and overly cynical. Overall, it is a compelling read for fans of Sedaris's candid storytelling.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Calypso?

Fans of humor-laced memoirs like Bossypants by Tina Fey or Let's Explore Diabetes with Owls by David Sedaris will revel in Calypso. Ideal for readers who enjoy sharp wit, keen observations, and a blend of pathos and humor, Sedaris offers an incisive look at family and aging with his trademark sardonic voice.

4.2

153,185 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

261

Format

Essay Collection • Nonfiction

Topic
Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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