SNAFU
By Ed Helms
Publisher: Grand Central
The actor and host of the "Snafu" podcast surveys an array of mishaps and blunders from the 1950s into the 21st century.
Review by By The Books Reviewer
Ed Helms, renowned for his comedic prowess in "The Office" and "The Hangover" series, ventures into the literary realm with "SNAFU: The Definitive Guide to History's Greatest Screwups." ([hachettebookgroup.com](https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/ed-helms/snafu/9781538769478/?utm_source=openai)) This work, inspired by his podcast of the same name, aims to dissect and humorously present some of history's most egregious blunders. However, the execution leaves much to be desired.
The book ambitiously spans from the 1950s to the 2000s, attempting to cover a vast array of mishaps, from the ludicrous idea of planting nuclear weapons on the moon to the absurdity of training cats as CIA spies. ([hachettebookgroup.com](https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/ed-helms/snafu/9781538769478/?utm_source=openai)) While these topics are inherently intriguing, Helms' treatment of them often feels superficial. The depth and nuance required to truly understand these events are sacrificed for the sake of humor, resulting in a narrative that feels more like a stand-up routine than a serious exploration of historical events.
One of the most glaring issues is the book's reliance on humor to carry the narrative. While Helms' comedic background is undeniable, the incessant jokes and quips often undermine the gravity of the events discussed. The balance between humor and informative content is skewed, leaving readers with a sense of having skimmed the surface rather than delving deep into the complexities of these historical screw-ups.
Furthermore, the inclusion of illustrations, while intended to add a lively touch, often comes across as gimmicky. Instead of enhancing the reader's understanding, they serve as distractions, further detracting from the substance of the content. ([hachettebookgroup.com](https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/ed-helms/snafu/9781538769478/?utm_source=openai))
In conclusion, "SNAFU" is a missed opportunity. While the premise holds promise, the execution falls flat. Readers seeking a thorough and insightful examination of history's greatest blunders will likely be disappointed. The book's overreliance on humor and lack of depth make it a less-than-compelling read.
Final Recommendation: Not recommended.
Recommendation: Not recommended.
written on: 5/8/2025