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Lesson 1 (from Start of Part 1: Chapter 1, Just Do It)

Objective

Augusten Burroughs as a character is a one-of-a-kind individual. He is a new York advertising copywriter, but he conforms to none of the archetypes one imagines. Augusten's idiosyncrasies make him who he is.

The objective of this lesson is to understand the uniqueness of Augusten Burroughs.

Lesson

1. Divide the class into two groups and have each group review the first chapter of the novel. One group should make a list of idiosyncratic statements, actions, or general qualities that pertain to Augusten. The other group should make a list of strange components of his life prior to the beginning of the novel. Each groups should read its list. How do you think these idiosyncrasies connect to his early life?

2. For class discussion: In recent years in particular, the image of the traditional New York ad man has been Don Draper in Mad Men. As a class, watch...

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