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I don’t usually reach for overtly political books, but this one was the exception—and I’m so glad I listened to it. How to Test Negative for Stupid isn’t a policy deep dive; it’s more like pulling up a chair while Senator John Kennedy spins stories, cracks jokes, and quietly lands a few punches along the way. It’s no surprise this book became a huge bestseller—readers clearly can’t get enough of his brand of humor and straight talk.
Kennedy has a gift. His one-liners are legendary, his metaphors are downright hilarious, and his observations about Washington are as sharp as they come. He doesn’t just aim across the aisle—he takes a few swings at his own side too, and even at himself. That kind of honesty is rare, and honestly, refreshing.
What surprised me most is the balance. Beneath the humor is a man who clearly values relationships, respects differing opinions, and isn’t afraid to stand alone when it matters. He comes across as both deeply principled and wonderfully human. You get the sense he’d rather tell the truth than win a popularity contest—and wouldn’t lose sleep over it either.
The book feels part memoir, part behind-the-scenes peek at Washington, all wrapped in storytelling that kept me smiling (and occasionally laughing out loud). And if you can, go with the audio—he narrates it himself, and it adds a whole extra layer of charm.
Bottom line: smart, funny, and full of plain old common sense. I finished it liking him even more than I already did—which says a lot.
** Thanks to NetGalley and HarperAudio Adult for a comp of the audiobook. Opinions are my own.