Hit or miss comedy in new presidential candidate’s book
The publishing world is abuzz and the Colbert Nation is filled with glee because fake television pundit and real presidential candidate Stephen Colbert has finally written a book. As one might expect, I Am America (And So Can You!) is a hilarious extension of the comedy style featured in Colbert’s television show, and while it will disappoint readers looking for truly insightful political satire, fans of Colbert’s ridiculous television personality will love this book.
I Am America was designed as a place for Stephen Colbert to put all of the opinions he does not have time to expound on his Comedy Central show. His range of arguments in the book is staggering. It covers everything from his fear that wild animals are trying to corrupt the nation’s youth to a recommended set of dance moves for first dates. These types of appeals to the absurd occur frequently and create many of the funniest moments.
Some of the best passages come when Colbert describes his views on science. For example, the comedian’s explanation of why he supports oceanography is a riot. “I’ve never trusted the sea,” he says. “What’s it hiding under there?” He also says that physics, with its rigid set of laws, is the ultimate Big Government conspiracy, and that scientists should “just let the free market decide what is possible for matter.”
More classic moments come, as one might expect, in the chapters entitled “Religion” and “Sex.” Colbert’s views on both subjects are highly charged and hilarious. “After Jesus showed up, the Old Testament basically became a way for Bible publishers to keep their word count up,” he says in the chapter on religion which also contains a handy and silly guide to all the major religions in the world.
The chapter on sex is even better. It includes a personality quiz similar to those on the sites eHarmony and Match.com, to help readers find the love of their lives. Colbert also has dating advice and general thoughts on the subject. “Sex is like the death penalty,” he says. “One outcome, so many different ways of carrying it out.”
Most readers who pick up the book already know they will like it because they enjoy the television show. Colbert’s style is always weird and wacky, but sometimes the jokes are too strange or stupid for his own good. Two entire chapters, entitled “Old People” and “Animals,” are distinctly unfunny. “Old People” in particular relies too much on cliched gags, like extra-large font sizes and jokes about elderly readers forgetting where they left their keys.
I Am America is meant to be read in small bites
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