Dry

[DCJenn]

I really like autobiographies and this is a great one- (and for some reason I gravitate to people who have had truly screwed up lives)

This is the story of Augusten Burrough's attempt to quit drinking then stay sober. It's sad, it's hilariously funny, and it's fascinating. It's definitely like a book version of a train wreck- you know it's going to be disturbing but you just can't stop yourself from looking,

If any of you have personal history with substance abusers, you may find it hard to read in some places, and if you have a personal problem with homosexuality, don't read it, because he is and isn't shy about his relationships.

I really enjoyed it though and I plan to find his book Running with Sissors as soon as I can.

Jenn

[Auspicious]

I've heard this is great from a number of different sources, and I haven't quite been able to make myself read it yet--would you say it's way darker than David Sedaris, or just a little darker? I like some of his essays on Salon, but, like you said, there's that train-wreck quality to them. Plus, from what I gather, every adult he ever knew as a kid totally failed him, which is really depressing. But at the same time, the boy can definitely write. I guess I'm on the fence about whether I could handle a whole book by him. Maybe I'll get it and read it one chapter at a time in between more wholesome selections. :P

Jenn, I've read both of Augusten's books and they are truly hilarious. He has a crazy sense of humor that I just really get a kick out. It's a fun read and I really enjoyed Running with Scissors, too.

[DCJenn]

Julie-

He's a little more 'dry' (excuse the pun) than Sedaris. He's the kind of guy that if you invited him to a party you know you'd be laughing out loud but also intimidated because he's so smart, too.

Jenn