History of the Millenium (So Far) - Dave Barry

If Dave Barry's account of this millenium (so far) and the previous one holds any truth, it's a wonder how the human race has survived this long, especially with Bode Miller crashing into everyone.

Barry brings a humorous recollection that isn't completely accurate to the book shelves, but for anyone familiar with his past column work with the Miami Herald, it isn't a far stretch for the comedic writer who tells it like it is...or how he thinks it is, anyway. In Millenium, we get an invitation into his mind, and let me forewarn you - you may need a few new pairs of undergarments to get through this fast-paced page-turner, because it is downright hilarious in every single sentence.

Those with a devout political standing may not take a liking to this if they don't have much of a sense of humor. But independent voters should roar with Barry's book, with its wonderfully worded jabs at both the Democrats and Republicans. Bush, Gore, Cheney, Condoleeza, Saddam, Osama - no one is spared.

Barry's historically-inaccurate account of years 1000 to 1999 are hilariously mixed with modern properties, like mathematician Charles Babbage (inventor of the computer's ancestor) and his passing while waiting to "talk to somebody from Technical Support"; or the 'Y1K' problem with parchments' wording being turned inside out ('OTTO' becomes 'TOOT' is the example used). Even Bach is placed into the mix with his unforgettable hit, "Just Fuguen' Around".

Flash forward a few hundred years and we've got Tiger Woods claiming every known sports award (just because he can) and presidential candidates spreading their influence to much younger audiences with appearances on Scooby-Doo and the Teletubbies. (Forewarning: There was some lip-locking involved here, disturbingly enough.)

Barry has always humored me with his columns, and this book is no exception. Not everything is laughs, though - out of respect for the 9/11 attacks, he doesn't cover the year 2001 in this book, even though he has "no doubt that many stupid things happened" during that time.

If you're looking for a good, hearty laugh, pick up this new release. I can't wait until he lets loose on 2007...boy, will he have a hey day!