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I Am a Pole (And So Can You!)  By  cover art

I Am a Pole (And So Can You!)

By: Stephen Colbert
Narrated by: Tom Hanks, Stephen Colbert (introduction)
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Publisher's summary

The story of a pole, searching for his purpose in life.

"The perfect gift to give a child or grandchild for their high school or college graduation. Also Father's Day. Also, other times."
—Stephen Colbert

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.

©2012 Stephen Colbert (P)2012 Hachette

Critic reviews

"The sad thing is, I like it." (Maurice Sendak)

Featured Article: The Best Listens for Tom Hanks Fans


From Forrest Gump to You’ve Got Mail, Cast Away to Toy Story, Tom Hanks has displayed an incredible range as an actor, and he’s become a household name for bringing some of the most iconic characters to life. But his talent isn’t merely limited to on-screen roles or film voice-over work—Hanks is also a fantastic audiobook narrator and writer, as well as an excellent podcast guest! If you’re looking for some great Tom Hanks content to keep you entertained until his next box office premiere, here are our recommendations.

What listeners say about I Am a Pole (And So Can You!)

Average customer ratings
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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Funny book

Would you listen to I Am a Pole (And So Can You!) again? Why?

Tom hanks and Stephen Colbert, what's not to like?

Who was your favorite character and why?

The pole .

Which character – as performed by Tom Hanks and Stephen Colbert (introduction) – was your favorite?

Tom and Stephen play off each other very well.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Colbert at his best!

What made the experience of listening to I Am a Pole (And So Can You!) the most enjoyable?

My granddaughter liked it and agreed she would be a pole for and American Flag!

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  • Overall
    3 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    1 out of 5 stars
  • Story
    1 out of 5 stars

Disappointing

It’s cute but so short. I would’ve spent my credit on a better book if I’d known how short it was. Glad proceeds are going to a good cause.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Difficult to hear all the words

A big fan of both Stephen and Tom, I was impressed with the writing and delivery. The musical backdrop was too loud in places which made it hard to hear all of the words. Editing should be done by hearing impaired people who most often notice and complain about background volume. Otherwise it would be a 5 star product.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Best deal in Audiobooks

Would you listen to I Am a Pole (And So Can You!) again? Why?

Sure. It is only 8 minutes, chock full of puns, and entertaining banter between Stephen Colbert and Tom Hanks at the start.

Any additional comments?

Don't forget to download the PDF for the illustrations.

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17 people found this helpful

  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Worthwhile for what it is

This was a nice little story and I smiled at the end when the pole learned his true purpose. I'm happy too that the proceeds go to a good cause. I was able to download the PDF pictures which did make it more enjoyable.

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8 people found this helpful

  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars
  • HB
  • 07-28-20

Funny but...

This story is quite funny, but very short (8 min.!) and therefore by itself not worth 1 credit. I love Tom Hanks as an actor and reader (esp. in Ann Patchett’s book The Dutch House), and admire Steve Colbert. Great combination.!

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Insightfully straight-arrow

Narrated by Tom Hanks, this is the story of choices for a pole. Not a Polish pole - a regular pole. I have a new respect for the here-to-fore marginalized pole and will show greater respect to them from this day forward. Thank you Mr. Hanks for the excellent narration (after that pesky Stephen Colbert insisted on interrupting)!
Now I shall find a pole and hug it.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Entertaining!

In this hilarious and inspiring audio rendition of Colbert's masterpiece literary work, the meaning and purpose of pole is revealed. In a role far superseding that of his frightening portrayal of David S Pumpkins, Tom Hanks narrates with dramatic intensity that borders on being a dire threat to the emotional health of the listener. This excellent production is not for those on meds. Consult your doctor before consuming.

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  • Overall
    3 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Funny, but more for kids

Hanks and Colbert are charming, of course. The humor is right there, but more for kids, I think.

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