(2002)A series of essays written after the 9-11 tragedy come from Sarah's heart as she explores her patriotism and growing up in America. Dry humor and insight make this a fun read.School Library Journal:These essays and commentaries from Vowell's NPR radio appearances and other sources are curmudgeonly, critical, liberal, and, often, laugh-out-loud funny. The commentator, a self-described history nerd, wanders across the spectrum of American life from the theme-park feeling of Salem, MA, where she purchased a Witch's Crossing shot glass, to the glories of Carlsbad Caverns and the Underground Luncheonette. She belongs to a political listserv that was aghast at the results of the 2000 election, yet, joining several of the members on a road trip to protest the Inauguration, she ended up weeping as she sang the "Star-Spangled Banner." Her commitment to America and her dismay about the current direction of the government, both before and after September 11, are strongly stated, but her wit and slightly quirky outlook make reading her book a pleasure. Teens, regardless of their political leanings, will enjoy the pop-culture connections and even learn some history while smiling at her delivery. This title will work well for assignments on essay writing and even provide material for monologues.

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This is really a political book, with Democrats being “good” and Republicans being “bad.” She compares herself to Rosa Parks. She spends several pages fawning over the television show “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.”

Better to spend your precious reading time somewhere else. ( )

This is the third book of essays that I've read by Sarah Vowell, though it is one of her older ones. There wasn't really a central theme here as much as in some of her other stuff -- it was a mix of 20th century presidential campaigns, lesser-known historical landmarks, some political interludes, and personal anecdotes. Vowell is known for her nerdy love of history, and indeed, that shines through in this book as well. But I actually found myself more drawn to some of the non-history portions of this book. And of course, it wouldn't be a true Sarah Vowell experience without listening to this on audio, which I did. That's really the only way to go with her works. Her voice is certainly unique and always initially a bit irksome, but her deadpan humor & tone easily grow on the reader. ( )

Sarah Vowell is a gem of a satirist. This is a very funny book, with a unique voice. Highlights include: Tom Cruise Makes Me Nervous, The First Thanksgiving, and Dear Dead Congressman.

The Audio Book is voiced by Conan O'Brien, Jon Stewart, Sarah Vowell and others. I would love to hear it.

I'm looking forward to seeking out more of Sarah Vowell's work. Her debut, "Take the Cannoli" was a great read as well.

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