Land of the Free

America, You Sexy Bitch

Michael Ian Black and Meghan McCain

Political

I could usually care less about political books, but when I saw that my fave comedian, Michael Ian Black, had come out with a book about touring the US with Meghan McCain, I knew I needed to read it.

You might think I’d have some sort of strong feeling towards Ms. McCain since she grew up in my homestate and everything, but I do not. I read her book when it came out because I was mildly curious, but I couldn't get into it. She’s a decent writer, however, so I figured this book couldn’t be too bad. And it wasn’t, if you’re really into politics.

Ms. McCain and Mr. Black start talking on Twitter one night about how they should tour the US to talk to different folks about politics and voila! A few months later, they find themsevles awkwardly meeting each other’s families and getting ready to hit the road. She’s a die-hard Republican and he’s a slightly wavering Democrat. It was nice to have the two different points of view all throughout the book, because when I disagreed with something, the other person tended to voice my thought (usually it was Mr. Black). 

If reading about gun control and government spending puts you to sleep, I would skip this book. Otherwise it’s an entertaining read.

The Real Deal

You’re Not Doing It Right
Michael Ian Black
Memoir

Have you ever started reading a book, realized how hilarious and awesome it is, and then vowed to read it slower than usual because you didn’t ever want it to end? That is what happened to me with this book. I can probably count on one hand the number of times that has occurred in all of my 28 years, even though I’ve read thousands of books. My only complaint is that You’re Not Doing It Right should’ve been longer.

Michael Ian Black is a comedian who has hosted his own shows and been on several others (remember those I Love the insert decade here series?). He’s also a great writer. His humor totally translates to the page. He wrote another book (that is now on my list of must-reads) and a few children's books, too. But this one is all about his wife and kids and typical family matters. The story of how he met and fell in love with his wife is very interesting, not to mention brutally honest and laugh-out-loud funny. And the chapters about his experiences with his kids are awesome. I really don’t know what else to say except you have to read this. Of course, there’s always the chance that his humor isn’t up your alley because like I’ve mentioned before, humor is subjective, but…

Oh, hell, just read it. If you don’t love it, I’ll send you a dollar in the mail. With Michael Ian Black’s face on it.

Update: I bought this book today. That tells you how highly I think of it because believe me, I hardly ever buy books anymore (unless we're talking about cookbooks. Don't get me started on cookbooks).