Book description
SNAFU: The Definitive Guide to History's Greatest Screwups - A Hilariously Insightful Time-Travel
Ed Helms, best known as the star of the hit podcast SNAFU, turns his comedic instincts toward history in a book that feels like an extended episode of his show. From the moment you open the cover-bright illustrations and bold typography-you know this isn't your typical dry chronicle; it's a riotous tour through humanity's most spectacular blunders.
Helms' voice is unmistakably playful yet surprisingly reflective. He starts by unpacking the origin of "SNAFU" (Situation Normal: All Fcked Up) and immediately sets the tone: history is full of moments that make us both cringe and laugh. Each chapter zooms into a different decade, from the 1950s to today, spotlighting incidents like planting nukes on the moon, training cats as CIA operatives, or weather-weaponization schemes. The anecdotes are vivid, often absurd, and always delivered with a wink.
What makes this book stand out is how Helms balances humor with a subtle moral compass. He never shies away from pointing out the real consequences of these mistakes-losses of life, geopolitical fallout, environmental damage-while still keeping the narrative light. The illustrations reinforce this mix: comic-style drawings that capture both the silliness and gravity of each event.
Readers will appreciate the book's structure; it reads like a series of short stories rather than a dense textbook. Each chapter is self-contained, making it easy to dip in for a quick laugh or pull out for deeper reflection. Helms also includes footnotes and sidebars that provide context without breaking the flow-perfect for those who want to dig a little deeper.
In sum, SNAFU* delivers more than just entertainment; it offers fresh insights into how our collective missteps shape the present. If you're looking for a book that will make you laugh while quietly reminding you of history's lessons, Ed Helms' guide is an absolute must-read.
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Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience