4 out of 4 stars
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Imagine a presidential candidate who made all her personal records including tax returns and previous voting history available online. Would you vote for her? What if once elected, the first female president shut down the IRS? According to author Nancy Omeara, The Most Popular President Who Ever Lived (So Far): A Smart, Sassy Satire is a fictional autobiography and account of events prior to taking place.
The M.P.P. won by a landslide vote after introducing BFD (Brazen Full Disclosure.) BFD refers to self-exposing personal secrets and controversies by posting them online and linking them to relevant documents, thereby removing the power from prospective opponents. After she was elected, her popularity only increased as she continued to implement much-needed change. The American people also took note that the M.P.P. worked from home and didn't receive a government salary. In turn, she prospered from her book royalties.
True to its subtitle, this is a smart, sassy satire. It's a quick read which I read in one sitting and thoroughly enjoyed. The book is well-written, witty, and funny. Omeara's spin on society's current obsession with reducing everything to acronyms is particularly humorous. For example, the reformative National Sales Tax Elective is NSTE which is pronounced “nasty." Though most of the story is told tongue-in-cheek, it also includes many insightful ideas, such as reflections on the education and prison systems.
What I enjoyed most about this book was the final chapter, I Digress, which addressed the issue of trying to normalize children with special needs, especially within the education system. Omeara gave examples of famous historical figures who didn't fit in like Marie Curry, Helen Keller, and Einstein. The chapter was less satirical than the rest of the book but spot-on. I also appreciated the clever historical notes at the conclusion of each chapter. Most of the thoughts were humorous, but a few invited more serious reflection.
I'm unable to highlight any detractions from this thought-provoking book. Regarding errors, I noted only a single typo. I’m pleased to rate this witty book 4 out of 4 stars. I recommend it to readers who enjoy humorous quick reads and political satire. I consider it nonpartisan due to the fact that it doesn’t discriminate in who it pokes fun at, so it will appeal to various political parties. On the other hand, if you don’t appreciate political satire, this probably isn’t the book for you.
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The Most Popular President Who Ever Lived (so far)
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