Wes Locher's Blog - Posts Tagged "essays"

Dave Barry's Greatest Hits by Dave Barry


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is one of those timeless humor books that holds up just as well today as it did when it was initially released 15 years ago! Dave Barry's mastery of the written word is at peak performance with this collection of columns. When they stuck the words "GREATEST HITS" on the cover, they were absolutely not lying.

Sure, some of the events and people discussed within these pages may be dated, but if you were alive for those times (or took a history class in school) then you'll still appreciate a fresh and hilarious perspective.

This book contains my all time favorite Barry column titled "Molecular Homicide" which tells the tell of the author having the flu and what happens when he is unable to get out of bed to monitor his young son's activities. This column alone is worth the price of the book. If you enjoy that column then there are plenty more that will tickle your funny bone.

This is a good starting point for anyone getting into Barry for the first time. It's a book that's easy to pick up whenever you have a few minutes and since each column is only 2-3 pages in length you can always come back to it later without having to worry about remembering what you read previously. Though don't be surprised if you find yourself reading some columns numerous times! It's a perfect book to keep in the bathroom for those quick visits, or in the kitchen for when you're microwaving some food.

If you make it through his "Greatest Hits" then I highly recommend "Dave Barry's Only Travel Guide You'll Ever Need," followed by "Dave Barry is Not Making This Up."
You can't go wrong with any of his books, but I found the 3 mentioned to be the funniest.

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Barrel Fever: Stories and Essays by David Sedaris


My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Even though this is one of David Sedaris's earliest offerings, I did not read it first. I came onto Sedaris's sardonic wit through the fantastic essay collection "Me Talk Pretty One Day." After laughing my way through those 200 plus pages I was hungry for more by the author. Being a completest, I usually read everything I can by authors that I enjoy.

Coming from the high that was "Me Talk Pretty..." I was a little put off by "Barrel Fever," the next title I attempted from the author. Where as "Pretty" contains mostly true stories about Sedaris's life, the first section of Barrel Fever (and the largest chunk of the book) was made up of fictional essays. The essays are still hilarious and after having re-read them since, they hold up as some of the craziest writing that I've read to date. It's clear that the earlier Sedaris was a bit more daring and willing to go for some shock value within his writing.

In fact, upon re-reading Barrel Fever, I find the true stories, which make up the second half of the book to be almost lackluster compared to the zany writing up front.

Overall, a solid collection of stories, but not his strongest work, in my opinion. Will you laugh while reading it? Oh, yes you will. Will you remember these stories after checking out some of his other works? Eh, it's not likely.

If you enjoy the first half of Barrel Fever, then I recommend following this book with Sedaris's "Holidays on Ice" which also contains several essays that are just... well... out there.

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Dave Barry's Only Travel Guide You'll Ever Need by Dave Barry


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is one of those books that I read in just one or two sittings. It was that good (and that short). Anytime a friend or loved one of mine is going on vacation or traveling for business, I encourage them to read this book prior to their departure. They almost never do, but that's their loss.

Most critics will agree that this is Barry's best book (followed closely by "Greatest Hits"). Of the Barry titles that I have read, I would tend to agree. It's very cohesive and contains illustrations that add a dash of extra hilarity to his writing.

The section where he details every state in the USA (They're Progressive!) is worth the cover price. The way he details foreign countries that he has (and hasn't) visited are hilarious as he tends to play a lot on stereotypes, but I would read the designated section for visiting any of them to see if I agree.

If you've read anything by Dave Barry before, you know what you are going to get. A quick read, a lot of laughs, and a desire for more.

Also recommended: "Dave Barry's Greatest Hits" & "Dave Barry is Not Making this Up."


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Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was the first book by David Sedaris that I read, and unfortunately, it now has become the book by which all of his other works are judged. I agree with the majority of the reviews that this is probably his best work. Each essay is funnier than the previous and it's easy to fly through half of this book in one sitting because you don't want to stop.

It seems that most people either love Sedaris or don't get his style of humor. The punchlines aren't 'in-your-face' and require a bit of thought in order to appreciate. Put yourself in his shoes and you'll enjoy the essays even more. If you can handle the subjects and language, then essays like You Can't Kill the Rooster, The Youth in Asia, and I'll Eat What He's Wearing will leave you laughing and gasping for air... unless of course, you don't have the awesome sense of humor that you think you do... in which case, you probably won't be able to finish this book.

Several months after reading this, I had the desire to re-read it, but instead bought the audio book, which is read by the author. It's a completely different experience, but hilarious to hear the stories straight from David's mouth. Whether you're reading it or listening to it, there's no wrong way to consume Me Talk Pretty One Day .

If this is your first Sedaris experience, as it was for me, and you're hungry for more, I recommend Holidays on Ice as the follow up.

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If you've been wanting to pick up a copy of my humor book, Musings on Minutiae , then now is the perfect time to do so!

My publisher, Lulu.com is offering a 10% discount if you buy Musings directly from them during the month of March!

All you have to do is click over to the product page at Lulu.com, add the item to your cart and then enter the coupon code " IDES " at checkout and you'll receive your 10% discount!

If you pick up a copy, leave a review! I'd love to hear your thoughts!

All the best,
Weston Locher

When You Are Engulfed in Flames by David Sedaris


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
When You Are Engulfed in Flames netted Sedaris the most amount of laughs since I read the stellar, Me Talk Pretty One Day. Most of the essays in these pages were sharp and to the point, and not so meandering as they were in previous books. Some of the chapters, like "Crybaby" were easily to relate to, while others, most of which involved his life in Paris require you to just sit back and go on a journey with him as he dodges child molesters and makes friends with the spiders that live in the window frames of his home.

I find that the most enjoyable stories are the ones about David's family. His creative way with words makes his parents and siblings accessible people who jump out of the pages and you feel like you're there with him as he discusses his father's over-reactive tendencies along with his mother's droll sense of humor. His sisters never cease to make you laugh as they do everything in their power to put David into one awkward situation after another.

The final essay in the book, "The Smoking Section", which makes up the last hundred or so pages is worth the cover price alone. It details his mission to quit smoking, so he takes off to the most logical place to do so... Tokyo, Japan. What follows is a journal kept over the three month period of his stay, and much hilarity ensues.

When You Are Engulfed in Flames covers a wide array of topics, and as usual with Sedaris, you never know exactly what you're going to get or what type of ride he's going to take you on. One thing's for sure though... it's going to be a hilarious ride.

If you read and enjoyed "Me Talk Pretty One Day" then you'll likely enjoy this collection of anecdotes as well.

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Musings on Minutiae by Weston Locher


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I wrote this book and therefore could discuss how great and life changing it is, however, I'm opting to let the following reviews from Amazon.com (that weren't cross-posted to Goodreads) do the talking.


5/5 Stars - "'Musings' was a great and funny book. The stories we short enough that you can take to work, right before bed, or even in the bathroom. The author's humor is so addictive I caught myself saying, "just one more story..." at the end of EVERY story. I cannot wait to read more from Wes Locher!"
- Amazon.com user: J. Charles Jessup

5/5 Stars - "Once in a generation something very special occurs in the literary realm. Often from the far-reaches of our collective imagination, someone's muse finds a way to speak to us all through two identical vowels surrounded by a pair of consonants; one formed on the lips, the other on the palate. Book. Buh-ook. This "book" causes us to completely reconsider WHAT we are, WHO we are, even WHERE we are....
I ABSOLUTELY HATE BOOKS LIKE THAT. Why should I have to change? I'm fine just the way I am. The last thing I need in my life is some clown piping up with unwarranted advice in my already complicated life. It's because of people like this that we have silly things like warning labels, crosswalks, and bridges. Maybe I like having a little excitement in my life?
Mr. Locher's collection of short stories and observations will not ask you to change one iota of your precious id or ego. He will simply ask you to accompany him on a meandering journey down his memory lane- which you'll start to notice bears a striking resemblance to your own. At it's worst, this book had me chuckling. At it's best, I cackling like a fool at the ceiling and trying not to wake up the people upstairs. Snag this one for your Kindle or iPhone- the price is a steal!"
- Amazon.com user: hornpreux

5/5 Stars - "Just finished Musing on Minutiae Humorous Essays, Anecdotes, & Childhood Memories. I won this book from First Reads on Goodreads! What can I say.......... but I loved it! I was bothering my family with "read this part" or "listen to this one"! Lots of real Laugh Out Loud moments too."
Short little musings about all sorts of different things. Like unusual things that happened while growing up (we all can relate to those) being out on your own, having CATS! we all have been there too! Enjoyed them all, my favorites, really liked the dentist one, angry feline and loved grandmas comment! So many funny things I can't write them all down and make this a short review. Loved reading about his family.
For a debut book I was really impressed and look forward to read more from Weston Locher in the future!
- Amazon.com user: Claudia


5/5 Stars - "What a great way to spend a snowy, desperately long winter's day--enjoying the humor & mental images of funny Wes Locher. This book cures what ails you with laughter by the pagefull. A must-read no matter where you live!"
- Amazon.com user: Mutijude

5/5 Stars - "These hilarious short stories are perfect for potty time. Set the book next to the toilet and you will find yourself spending way more time there then you planned!!! So funny, it is addictive. I have already read the book twice!!!"
- Amazon.com user: Tami Gingrich

5/5 Stars - "This is the most entertaining collection of writings that I've come across in a long time. Weston's witty way with words, his wry humor, and his wide-ranging choice of topics all make for a memorable and hilarious read. While I love each writing, my personal favorites are "Easter Egg Dyeing," "Saving the Day with Vague Answers," and "Mayonnaise!" I highly recommend this book!"
- Amazon.com user: 4katz

5/5 Stars - "Musing on Minutiae made me chuckle, laugh out loud, and question the meaning of life through a cat's eyes. This is definitely a book that I can refer back to for a good laugh. I especially liked the variety in topics from roller skating to buying toothpaste to kids/ewoks! The author really has a way of making just about anything hilarious."
- Amazon.com user: Cutiepie Ink

5/5 Stars - "Musings on Minutiae is hilarious! Do yourself a favor and pick up this book, you won't regret it! This is observational humor at it's finest!"
- Amazon.com user: Aragog

5/5 Stars - "This book is hilarious! The author has a real gift for storytelling and I found myself laughing so hard, my face hurt. It still hurts. Buy this book!"
- Amazon.com user: Whitney Locher


Oh, and by the way... this book is life changing.

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I Was Told There'd Be Cake by Sloane Crosley


My rating: 3 of 5 stars
If you read the quotes that adorn the front and back covers of Sloane Crosley's "I was Told There'd be Cake" the you can see that she's compared to humorists Sarah Vowell and David Sedaris. These are dangerous comparisons for some writers as they are high standards to live up to. Does Crosley sit on that same level? Sometimes. When she's on, she's on, but there were also some essays that just missed he mark completely.

Part of this book reads as a love letter to New York City, but for me, someone who has never been and does not live there, references to common locations often went over my head and occasionally made me feel like I wasn't "in the know."She opens strong with a tale about plastic ponies that sets the bizarre and silly tone for the rest of the book, however, the rest of the essays that follow either exceed the first in quality or falter altogether.

I highly enjoyed her tales about suffering through a distant friend's wedding as a bridesmaid, as well as her story about working for a publisher, and laughed my way through the mystery to uncover which of her friends may have poo'ed on her floor one night after a dessert party. Some essays fell flat and I was unable to relate either because I'm not, nor do I ever plan to be a woman, or because I am not a vegetarian. The style in which the essays are delivered are conversational, as if she's a friend telling you the story in person, but there are often quick and confusing cuts between thoughts, and her humor is mainly situational and you have to look for the irony in the situations she gets herself into. Her attempts at straightforward jokes are sparse and often feel forced and out of place.

Overall I found the book amusing and perhaps better suited to a female audience, but I think Sloane has a ton of potential. I've heard that she has a new book on he horizon, and based off of my experience with "Cake," I will more than likely give it a read as I'm sure that she has had more time to find her voice and develop her style a bit more. I look forward to seeing her grow as a writer.

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