Gumption cover art

Gumption

Relighting the Torch of Freedom with America's Gutsiest Troublemakers

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Gumption

By: Nick Offerman
Narrated by: Nick Offerman
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About this listen

The star of Parks and Recreation and author of the New York Times bestseller Paddle Your Own Canoe returns with a second book that humorously highlights twenty-one figures from our nation’s history, from her inception to present day—Nick’s personal pantheon of “great Americans.”

To millions of people, Nick Offerman is America. Both Nick and his character, Ron Swanson, are known for their humor and patriotism in equal measure.

After the great success of his autobiography, Paddle Your Own Canoe, Offerman now focuses on the lives of those who inspired him. From George Washington to Willie Nelson, he describes twenty-one heroic figures and why they inspire in him such great meaning. He’ll combine both serious history with light-hearted humor—comparing, say, George Washington’s wooden teeth to his own experience as a woodworker. The subject matter will also allow Offerman to expound upon his favorite topics, which listeners love to hear—areas such as religion, politics, woodworking and handcrafting, agriculture, creativity, philosophy, fashion, and, of course, meat. Americas Literature & Fiction Politics & Government Satire United States World Comedy Witty Biography

Critic Reviews

Praise for Paddle Your Own Canoe:

“[Offerman] explores his Paul Bunyan-like image with tongue-in-cheek lessons on manliness, complete with illustrations and advice . . . [and] hilarious anecdotes from his career.” —Entertainment Weekly

“Take it from us; Offerman’s take on American history is worth reading.” —Vanity Fair

“[T]hought-provoking, profane, and frequently hilarious.” —Publishers Weekly

“Filled with advice on how to woo a woman, grill meat, and grow a perfect moustache, this book makes for perfect reading around the campfire.” —Parade

“Just try to resist the myriad manly charms of . . . [Offerman’s] memoir about woodworking, eating, acting, cultivating the perfect moustache, and seducing Megan Mullally.” —Vulture.com
All stars
Most relevant
Well read and excellent content. Gained a better understanding of American history and figures. A must read.

Engaging and intelligent

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I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The reader is always in good hands with an Offerman offering. He introduced me to some great thinkers and artists here, that had me paddling up side tributaries to try Wilco, Wendell Berry, Michael Pollan and others for myself, then returning to the flow of Gumption to find another fork in the river to investigate. Berry’s “A Distant Land” on Audible is excellent. Nick’s style is all his own and I will definitely be checking out his next book.

Thanks, Nick!!!!

It’s a yes from me. That’s 3 yes’s.

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Nick is one of the greatest storytellers of our generation! The way he delivers this book with humour and intelligence is divine!! Definitely read this book, or if you can't read...listen to this book! You will be much better for it! Oh and by the way, read (or listen) to his other book as well. Paddle Your Own Canoe is just as brilliant.

Nick is Amazing

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I think this book has something for everyone and contains important lessons and ponderings we all need to hear. The stories of the people contained in this book are bound to inspire you to find your own gumption. I know they have helped encourage me and solidified my motivation to follow my passions instead of trudging through my day job forever. Thank you for this collection of stories compiled in a witty manner Nick. Thank yoy

Inspiring

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don't bother. boring
just found the book to a total waste of time and waste of money

terrible

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