Modern Joke

Can jokes win a hostile room, a hopeless argument, or even an election? You bet they can, according to Cicero, and he knew what he was talking about. One of Rome's greatest politicians, speakers, and lawyers, Cicero was also reputedly one of antiquity's funniest people. After he was elected commander-in-chief and head of state, his enemies even started calling him "the stand-up Consul". How to Tell a Joke provides a lively new translation of Cicero's essential writing on humor alongside that of the later Roman orator and educator Quintilian.

In America’s biggest circus, the clowns wear power ties — and the audience keeps buying tickets. The Joke’s On Us is part roast, part reckoning, and part survival guide for anyone trying to stay sane in the age of weaponized outrage. With the wit of a late-night comic and the precision of a political analyst, Sam Rourke dissects the modern spectacle where every scandal is a meme, every headline a punchline, and every politician an auditioning performer. Through sharp, hilarious storytelling, Rourke takes readers on a journey through the absurdities of American politics — from ...

Uncover the transformative power of laughter with "The Laughing Pulpit - Using Humor to Enhance Preaching." This groundbreaking guide illuminates the profound yet often overlooked relationship between humor and preaching. With this essential resource, preachers can learn how to leverage laughter to communicate spiritual truths more effectively, create a deeper sense of community, and make their messages more memorable and impactful. A Harmonious Blend of Theology and Comedy: Explore how humor can illuminate spiritual truths, deepen religious understanding, and open hearts to profound ...

Autumn 2000: After five years in Paris, Adam Gopnik moves his family back to a New York that seems, at first, safer and shinier than ever. Here in the wondrously strange "neighborhood" of Manhattan we observe the triumphs and travails of father, mother, son, and daughter; and of the teachers, coaches, therapists, adversaries, and friends who round out the extended urban family.

A hilarious illustrated collection of tips for successfully navigating the dating world as a millennial. For single millennials, this situation is all too familiar: You're on a date. It's going well! Then suddenly your date looks at you like you're a f*cking idiot and you never hear from that...

A gorgeous ginger boyfriend, a busy job, and a happy social life - Kirsty's perfect beginning couldn't be better. So why is she still chaotically lurching through her life? Kirsty is kept busy managing Cupid's Sting dating agency and enjoying her time with Ben. However, his unwillingness to commit is a sticking point although Kirsty suspects her insecurities relate to her own troubled relationship with her father. Arguments arise, but could better communication be the key? On top of everything else, Kirsty's mother and father are trying to work out the rules of life themselves while making ...

Welcome to Glory Hollow, the sleepy little town that's home to scenic mountain vistas, a healthy logging industry, and a sasquatch who just happens to be the town's resident podiatrist. Dr. Newton Bigfoot has sworn an oath to use his gift with feet to protect the humans who have accepted him as part of their community. With the perfect secretary and loyal clients, the sasquatch doctor thought he had found a quiet place to practice his craft and build a life with his human lover, Patrick. All that is about to change when Patrick is delivered a dire diagnosis about a rare disease that is ...

True Tales of People Who Just Can't Take It Anymore. What can you do when the world is pushing you over the edge? More than you think. For some of us, it's the automated voice that answers the phone when we'd rather talk to a real person. For others, it's the fact that Starbucks insists on...