David Sedaris to return to IU on Wednesday

David Sedaris is a man of the people.

On his last visit to IU in 2007, Sedaris offered readings from his then-upcoming release, 2008’s When You Are Engulfed in Flames, followed by a book signing. A large number chose to stay and meet the author, and he obliged.

“He was here until about 1 or 2 signing books for his fans,” Maria Talbert, events coordinator for the IU Auditorium, said. “He’s very generous to his patrons.”

Sedaris will return to the auditorium stage at 8 p.m. Wednesday, hot on the heels of his new release, Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: A Modest Bestiary, released Sept. 28. Tickets are still available at the auditorium box office and website.

Sedaris, known as one of America’s preeminent humorists and essayists, will read from his new release, in addition to essays from his older collections, and will sign books following the reading.

Sedaris will also debut new material for his next collection, gauging audience interest and reception to decide if the work is worth pursuing – a practice for which Sedaris is known well.

“Not only is the audience going to be able to hear new stuff, but they will be contributing to his next book,” Talbert said. “It’s like we’re part of the creative process.”

- Bennett Fuson