Lifelong Liberal Takes Potshots At Both Parties, Offers Up Common Sense Views On How To Fix America's Problems

Jeff Walker,  Entertainment Writer

Unless you're from another planet (a plus in this day and age) or have been educated in the namby-pamby Ivy League schools during the 21st century, you may not realize comedian Bill Maher has been a card carrying liberal since he exited the womb in 1956. Although he adamantly waves a banner for the progressives, as he's gotten older Maher has become one of the more sane voices for the democratic party.

For the past 30 years including stints on ABC's 'Politically Incorrect' and HBO's 'Real Time', Maher has comfortably and controversially spewed acceptable political satire, while firing more digs at the right than the left. In his new book 'What This Comedian Said Will Shock You', Maher proves in a room full of Washington DC elite he is quite possibly the smartest person in the group. 

The title to Maher's sixth book might be considered an oxymoron. At this stage in his career, followers of Maher should not be shocked by what he says. However, in 355 pages covering 24 chapters, including countless cleverly titled sub-chapters, Maher opines with reckless abandon just how stupid society (mostly America) has become.

Maher takes the usual potshots at republicans and religion aka the C & C (conservatives & Christianity), but doesn't hold back calling out the hypocrisy in regards to cancel culture, social media, wealth, race, education, and the mainstream media, as well as lambasting his own industry, showbiz. Maher doesn't believe just because you're a well-known celebrity with millions of followers on Twitter (yes I know it's X), you're fit to govern California or move into the Oval Office. Apologies to The Rock and Kanye West.

In 'What This Comedian Said Will Shock You', Maher is both candid and honest, offering up views that reflect the concerns of the left and the right. Maher takes on Mark Zuckerberg's claim that in the 'Meta-verse' you can be present without actually being present. Homer Simpson might say 'Duh'!

In the sub-chapter titled 'Green Fakers', Maher questions who is making a bigger impression on social awareness, Greta Thunberg or Kylie Jenner. In his own words Maher declares, 'I really wish you did, Greta, but you don't'. The insincerity might alarm the younger generation, but they would have to be totally tuned in, but sadly they are not. More so they are privileged, entitled, and follow fellow clueless leaders marching to the beat of their own drums.

Chapter five 'Generations' provides several eye openers. In eight developed countries why is America dead last in math and science? Maher suggests American kids are more concerned with selfies and self esteem than they are academia. Bad parenting and overuse of technology are part of the problem. Under the cleverly titled 'Age Against the Machine' Maher declares 'ageism is the last acceptable prejudice'. Outside the United States the elderly are embraced, while those 18 to 35 in America continually mock an 80 year old for not being able to fully use an I-phone.

'Unrest Assured' under the whole 'Cops' chapter is easily one of the most disturbing yet alarming rants in his latest book. Maher offers up there are a few unjust cops among the force, however it's not the 'bad apples' that need to be dealt with, rather it's the 'apple orchard' that needs reform. To the would be crooks preying on the rich, Maher begs 'don't hit my house, because there's easier target just down the block, your local CVS.

It's evident Maher is no fan of former President Trump aka number 45 or 'the Donald'. Nor is Maher a fan of any self serving politician who only use the office to their advantage, i.e., high paying position, free health care, and great retirement plan, as well as a plethora of financial perks all funded by the American taxpayers. It's a great gig if you can get it, with little accountability!

Maher can come across as rude, crude, and sarcastic. But to his credit he's willing to listen and entertain opposing viewpoints. He's adamant conservatives govern without shame, and liberals shame without governing. He further believes the ultra-left and the ultra-right are doing more damage to their respective parties than any others among the ranks.

A lifetime doing standup comedy, as well as hosting two successful talk shows prove Maher has no filter. Nothing is off limits in Maher's new release. Readers will find 'You've Got Ale', 'Pillbillies', and 'Grass Warfare' equally amusing. 'Guns are a lifestyle. And weed is a lifestyle' (page 173).

Could a drunken brawl that leads to gunfire break out at Chucky Cheese? Read the book. Is downtown San Francisco becoming a ghost town? Read the book. How do we deal with the homeless and immigrants at the southern border? Read the book. Do police need sensitivity training? Read the book. Does smoking pot provide a better view of a sunset? Read the book. Relying on his usual sardonic wit Maher provides practical solutions to America's ills and outrageous anomalies.

What makes 'What This Comedian Said Will Shock You' so poignant and topical? Quite frankly is the truth. While Bill Maher may be liberal his latest book comes with a heaping helping of common sense, enough to make free thinking conservative Christians and atheists consider the possibilities. It's equally smart and funny! Explore the book with an open mind.

Available at most bookstore retailers and through Amazon. For more visit
https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/What-This-Comedian-Said-Will-Shock-You/Bill-Maher/9781668051351