Summary

1985 opens with the author still at home for Christmas vacation. He spends the days with his family, and getting pranked by his younger brother, Paul.

Back in Chicago, Sedaris goes right back to the IHOP. He spent a great deal of his time people watching and records the humorous or ridiculous interactions he witnessed. His favorite couple was an elderly brother and sister, who are always kind and ask about the waitress’s health.

In July, Sedaris wrote, “Tiffany has moved in with a piano player named Mike. They’re living in Queens and selling cocaine to make money. Before this she worked at Macy’s for a Belgian chocolate company. I think hers is what you call a checkered career” (123-124).

By October, Sedaris had fully immersed himself into school and most of his entries reflect his growing maturity and newfound focus. He writes...