Discuss the use of language. Why do you think Sedaris chooses to focus on language as a theme in this book? Why do you think that Sedaris implies that less than perfect linguist skills are a sign of ignorance?

Discuss the role of Lou Sedaris. What similarities do Sedaris and his father share? How are they different? Why are these similarities and differences important?

Sedaris has a number of obvious biases. Identify at least two of them and explain why this bias may exist for him.

Sedaris uses humor to touch on several sensitive topics, homosexuality for instance. Does this comic tone take away from these issues? Does the fact that he makes light of these issues make them easier to discuss?

Several essays begin with a flashback to an earlier time in Sedaris's life, which generally sets up the topic for the essay...