New Rules: Polite Musings from a Timid Observer

Though it's often true that the audio adaptation of a humorous work is better than the print edition, particularly when read by the comedian who authored it, one gets the sense that this production isn't all that it could have been. Maher's delivery is well-timed, but the audio, with its lack of music or embellishment, has a bare-bones feel. Nevertheless, the sound quality is good, and those who appreciate Maher's wry sense of humor and, in particular, who are familiar with his HBO series, Real Time with Bill Maher , should enjoy this collection of witticisms. Maher has established some new rules for our "self-obsessed, success-by-any-means, get-mine culture," and he tackles everything from food ("Cornbread isn't bread. It's cake") to the environment ("The big oil companies must stop running ads telling us how much they're doing for the environment. We get it. You rape the Earth, but you cuddle afterward"). While the alphabetical list format doesn't make for the most flowing listening experience, Maher's expert delivery ensures that each joke is as funny as when he originally presented it on Real Time . Simultaneous release with the Rodale hardcover. (July)

Read Web-exclusive audio reviews at www.publishersweekly.com .