In 'Al Franken, Giant of the Senate,' Al Franken takes readers on a witty and insightful journey through his unconventional path from comedian to U.S. Senator. With his characteristic humor, Franken exposes the absurdities of political life while revealing the challenges and triumphs of his role in the Senate. The book delves into his passionate advocacy for healthcare, education, and justice, offering a candid look at the intricacies of American politics. Readers will find themselves captivated by Franken's sharp observations and engaging anecdotes that blend laughter with thought-provoking insights. This memoir not only entertains but also invites readers to reflect on the importance of integrity and activism in democracy.
By Al Franken
Published: 2017
""In the end, politics is not just about power; it's about the people you represent and the stories they carry. When we forget that, we forget who we are.""
#1 New York Times Bestseller "Flips the classic born-in-a-shack rise to political office tale on its head. I skipped meals to read this book - also unusual - because every page was funny. It made me deliriously happy." - Louise Erdrich, The New York Times From Senator Al Franken - #1 bestselling author and beloved SNL alum - comes the story of an award-winning comedian who decided to run for office and then discovered why award-winning comedians tend not to do that. This is a book about an unlikely campaign that had an even more improbable ending: the closest outcome in history and an unprecedented eight-month recount saga, which is pretty funny in retrospect. It's a book about what happens when the nation's foremost progressive satirist gets a chance to serve in the United States Senate and, defying the low expectations of the pundit class, actually turns out to be good at it. It's a book about our deeply polarized, frequently depressing, occasionally inspiring political culture, written from inside the belly of the beast. In this candid personal memoir, the honorable gentleman from Minnesota takes his army of loyal fans along with him from Saturday Night Live to the campaign trail, inside the halls of Congress, and behind the scenes of some of the most dramatic and/or hilarious moments of his new career in politics. Has Al Franken become a true Giant of the Senate? Franken asks readers to decide for themselves.
Al Franken is an American author, comedian, and political figure known for his sharp wit and incisive commentary on American politics and culture. He gained prominence as a writer and performer on 'Saturday Night Live,' where he crafted memorable sketches and characters, including the iconic 'Daily Affirmation with Stuart Smalley.' Franken is the author of several bestselling books, including 'Rush Limbaugh Is a Big Fat Idiot,' 'Lies and the Lying Liars Who Tell Them,' and 'Giant of the Senate,' which showcase his humorous yet critical perspective on political issues. His writing style combines humor with serious critique, often weaving personal anecdotes and political analysis into a compelling narrative that engages readers while provoking thoughtful discussion.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "How to Think Like a Roman Emperor," philosopher and historian Donald Robertson intertwines Stoic philosophy with the life of the revered Marcus Aurelius, offering insights on resilience and self-mastery. Through captivating anecdotes and practical exercises, readers are encouraged to adopt the mental strategies of Rome's greatest leader to navigate modern challenges. Explore how Aurelius transformed adversity into strength using timeless Stoic principles. This compelling blend of biography and philosophy provides a roadmap for anyone seeking inner tranquility and profound clarity in today’s chaotic world. Discover how to harness the wisdom of an emperor to sculpt your own destiny!
Explore the extraordinary life of Andy Grove, the visionary leader who transformed the semiconductor industry and propelled Intel to greatness. Richard S. Tedlow delves into Grove's immigrant background and relentless pursuit of excellence, offering insights into his innovative management style. Discover how his resilience and strategic thinking shaped the tech landscape, making him a pivotal figure in modern business history. This captivating biography reveals the personal and professional challenges that Grove overcame on his journey to becoming a Silicon Valley icon. Will his lessons in leadership and foresight inspire the next generation of innovators?
No summary available
In 'An Autobiography', Mohandas K. Gandhi shares the remarkable journey of his life, revealing the evolution of his philosophy of non-violence and truth. From his early years in India to his transformative experiences in South Africa, Gandhi exposes the struggles that shaped his commitment to social justice. His candid reflections on faith, morality, and personal growth challenge conventional beliefs and inspire readers to question their own values. This gripping narrative not only details his political activism but also provides an intimate look at his family life and spiritual pursuits. Discover the profound insights that guided one of history's most influential leaders in his quest for freedom and equality.
In 'Machete Season', Jean Hatzfeld delves into the harrowing aftermath of the Rwandan genocide through chilling interviews with perpetrators. The book reveals the chilling mentality that transformed ordinary men into fearsome killers, as they recount their gruesome actions with haunting normalcy. As Hatzfeld gives voice to these individuals, readers grapple with the unsettling questions of morality, guilt, and humanity. The juxtaposition of horror and banality forces us to confront the dark capacity within us all. This powerful narrative leaves an indelible mark, challenging our understanding of evil and forgiveness.
In 'Hope for the Flowers,' two caterpillars, Stripe and Yellow, embark on a transformative journey to find their purpose in a world filled with challenges. As they navigate the struggles of life, they confront the dilemmas of ambition and social conformity. The vibrant imagery and poignant narrative reveal the power of change and the beauty of self-discovery. This illustrated tale beautifully intertwines themes of hope, friendship, and rebirth. Will they ultimately break free and embrace their true potential?
In 'Leading Minds', Howard E. Gardner explores the intricacies of creativity and genius through the lens of psychological theory. He delves into the minds of influential leaders across cultures and epochs, revealing how they think and what drives their innovation. Gardner presents a compelling case for the interplay of personality, culture, and values in shaping extraordinary leaders. With a blend of biography and analysis, the book invites readers to ponder what truly defines greatness in leadership. This thought-provoking journey promises to inspire and challenge your understanding of influence and creativity.
No summary available
Showing 8 of 29 similar books

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

Audrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.

Cory Booker is a prominent American politician and author, currently serving as the junior United States Senator from New Jersey since 2013. Before his tenure in the Senate, he was the Mayor of Newark, where he gained national recognition for his efforts to reduce crime and revitalize the city. Booker is also a published author, with his 2016 memoir, "United," offering an insightful look into his political career and personal philosophy centered on social justice and community activism. His literary work emphasizes themes of unity, compassion, and the importance of public service. Booker's contributions to literature and politics highlight his commitment to fostering a more equitable society.
“"In the end, politics is not just about power; it's about the people you represent and the stories they carry. When we forget that, we forget who we are."”
Al Franken, Giant of the Senate
By Al Franken
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.