In Praise Of: Essays

This is a book I wrote. Because I wrote it, I had to figure out what to put on the back cover to explain what it is. I tried to write a long, third-person summary that would imply how great the book is and also sound vaguely authoritative--like maybe someone who isn’t me wrote it--but I soon discovered that I’m not sneaky enough to pull it off convincingly. So I decided to just make a list of things that are in the book:PicturesWordsStories about things that happened to meStories about things that happened to other people because of meEight billion dollars*Stories about dogsThe secret to eternal happiness**These are lies. Perhaps I have underestimated my sneakiness!

The Drowned and the Saved is a must-read book for anyone interested in understanding the Holocaust and its long-term impact. Through his honest and powerful essays, Primo Levi challenges the popular narratives about the Holocaust and sheds light on the experiences of both victims and oppressors. His introspective approach to memory and trauma makes this book a valuable resource for students and literary readers alike. His personal experiences as a survivor bring the Holocaust to life and honor the resiliency of the human spirit.

The Unspeakable could be a good read for users who enjoy personal essays that bring a fresh perspective to daily experiences. Through her writing, Meghan Daum dissects our culture's illusions and blind spots while retaining her own joy and compassion. With a mix of piercing insight and funny anecdotes, Daum explores the ups and downs of life and pushes back against false sentimentality. Users who appreciate Nora Ephron's humour and Joan Didion's insight would likely enjoy this book.

Naked by David Sedaris would be an enjoyable read for anyone who appreciates humour and enjoys reading personal memoirs. Sedaris has an incredible ability to find the humour in everyday situations and his witty writing style will keep readers hooked. The unique aspect of this book is the honest and vulnerable portrayal of the author's life, making it relatable to many readers. Overall, Naked is a well-written and entertaining book that will leave readers feeling both amused and introspective.