Holidays on Ice
Holidays on Ice is a 1997 anthology of essays and narratives centered on Christmas, authored by David Sedaris. This compilation merges both newly written and previously released pieces. Praised by The Economist as among the most amusing contemporary writers, Sedaris solidified his early acclaim through this work, which was later expanded and reissued.
The collection's highlight, "Santaland Diaries," humorously chronicles Sedaris' time employed as a department store elf during the holiday season.
In October 2008, Little, Brown & Company brought out a new edition of Holidays on Ice, extending its length to 176 pages.
SantaLand Diaries
"SantaLand Diaries" narrates Sedaris' stint as an elf at Macy's department store. Initially aired on NPR, the essay also features in Sedaris' first book, Barrel Fever.
Season's Greetings to Our Friends and Family!!!
This darkly humorous Christmas letter is written by the Dunbar family matriarch, depicting her mental decline amid familial turmoil, including her husband's unfaithfulness and the challenges of raising troubled stepchildren. It was first included in Barrel Fever.
Dinah, the Christmas Whore
Sedaris shares an account of rescuing a prostitute from an abusive partner late one night, a tale also found in his 1997 collection Naked.
Front Row Center with Thaddeus Bristol
A satirical critique of a local elementary school's Christmas pageant.
Based on a True Story
A journalist approaches a church congregation to gather information regarding a tragic incident.
Christmas Means Giving
The story depicts neighbors engaged in a rivalry to outdo each other in holiday generosity.