Along with the author's usual sardonic family stories and observances, we get a glimpse at his vulnerable side as he shares stories about his mother's alcoholism, his sister's suicide and the fact that many of us have more of our lives behind us rather than ahead. It is both a funny and touching book and probably my favorite of his.

Another great collection of essays by David Sedaris. In this offering he focuses on family relationships. This one is a little more serious than it’s predecessors. It’s quite sad in some parts. Still it’s laugh out loud irreverent humor that he is known for. Even with the serious parts, it’s a great comic relief from the dour mood of current events.

This book is only for those who have read his previous books. He tells a lot about himself, but it is not that funny, and his meanspiritness comes through.

The comments about Sedaris 'losing' his edginess surprises me - I think Calypso gives us insight into how as we or he ages, some of these darker topics can't be left unchecked. Calypso is a beautiful piece of writing that makes you want to laugh and cry at the same time, and a nice change of pace from Sedaris.

Funny without any effort, serious and honest, good observations about society.

I'm not sure why, but for some reason when I ordered 'Calypso' from KCLS, I thought I was getting a wacky, heartfelt book of fiction. Obviously I did not. That it is non-fiction and so clearly evident it is written from a wide open heart makes it that much more special.

'Calypso' is a series of stories, vignettes of a family growing older, but not necessarily growing up. It very much reminds me of the non-fiction Lisa Scottoline and her daughter, Francesca Serritella, write about their family. You absolutley must laugh because otherwise you may cry.

'Calypso' is a fast read because you don't want to part from the family and their story for even a moment. You are left feeling you wish you knew this man and his family . . . or were part of it. The ending of the last story however left me sad with a touch of ennui because it was such a down note to an otherwise enjoyable collection of stories that all ended, if not with a laugh, then at least an uplifting smile.

I had never read any of his books until recently. Now I can't stop. This is the first one I read. Loved it!

This didn't have the edginess of Sedaris' earlier works. A bit of a disappointment.

This latest collection of essays by Dave Sedaris is darker than previous collections. in it he discusses the suicide and complex relationship with one of his sisters and the aging and frustrations with his father along with lighter topix such as travels with his siblings and the purchase of a beach house with his husband. He gives a frank and unvarnished description of his struggles with his family and his misanthropy. I think anyone with family struggles will connect with this collection.

A friend or two of mine had mentioned this book recently so I put it on hold at the library. As per usual I didn't know anything about it prior to checking it out - but that seems to be a recurring theme in my reading realm. I haven't read anything by David before, but apparently he is a pretty well known (and distinguished) author. When I shared on my Instagram stories that I had picked up this book I got a lot of feedback from folks who mentioned they had read it and that although his humor is a bit dark, it was a great book. I would have to agree with that assessment. This book is a bit of a memoir (a collection of essays from his life) that touches on some pretty deep topics - all while trying to poke a little fun at himself and keep it as lighthearted as possible. The stories center around him, his family and their relationships with one another. They are a dysfunctional bunch, but who isn't?! I wouldn't say each of the chapters made me 'LOL', but there were definitely some chuckles (and a few head shakes and maybe even a few gasps) throughout. I was able to read this in a couple hours and has me looking to see if our library carries any of his other titles. I would give it an 8 out of 10.