Getting Acquainted with Strangers

PW Talks with Amy Sedaris

by Kevin Howell -- Publishers Weekly, 7/31/2006

After coauthoring a novel (2004's Wigfield) and turning her cult TV series, Strangers with Candy, into a feature film, Sedaris is no longer in the shadow of older brother David. Her guide to hospitality and party-throwing is called I Like You (Reviews, July 17).

How did it feel to work on a project by yourself?

I failed miserably. I like collaborating. I need people to bounce ideas off of. I wanted this book to be serious—the only joke I wanted was there to be a color wheel in black and white. A lot of the humor came after Paul Dinello [Strangers with Candy coauthor] made fun of the fact I was trying to take something so serious. I would write and show it to him and he helped me make it entertaining.

How involved were you in the physical layout of the book?

I art directed the book. I put together a team of crack pot experts. I'm a very visual person. I wanted this book to be for the illiterate. I knew exactly what I wanted and how I wanted it. I wanted each photograph to tell a story—but only part of a story. To me, this book is an art book with some recipes in it.

How long did you work on the book?

I have been working on this book for a year and a half. I shot it in my apartment last summer in the middle of a heat wave, which is why everything is melting and some dishes are covered instead of showing you what they are. Thank goodness there was a deadline. I'm the queen of always wanting to start over and change everything at the last minute.

What was the hardest part about creating this book?

Articulating exactly what I wanted. I write on my feet. I'm not a writer who sits at a typewriter. Also collaborating with me is very difficult because my rule is, It has to be my idea. I needed slaves, basically.

What are the top rules for throwing or attending a party?

It really is about casting your party—it's who you invite. As a guest, remember that bringing flowers takes the hostess out of circulation. Send them the day before or after. And don't show up 15 minutes early under any circumstances.

Any ideas for better book signings?

I think bookstores should just be hospitable. Get started on time and have plenty of books to sell. Okay, maybe some water would be nice.

You have a feature film in theaters and a book coming in October. What's next?

I am going to France to visit my brother for Christmas. I'll tell you one thing I don't have plans for and that's to throw any kind of party. I'm done. The expectations are too high now—I'm a fraud.