Gumption by Nick Offerman

Nick Offerman, best known as Ron Swanson from Parks and Recreation, has another new book coming out soon. This isn’t that book yet, but I wanted to read an older book of his in preparation. Stay tuned for the review of the new Where the Deer and the Antelope Play: The Pastoral Observations of One Ignorant American Who Loves to Walk Outside.

In the meantime, get excited with Gumption: Relighting the Torch of Freedom with America’s Gutsiest Troublemakers!

Nick Offerman has now completed 5 books. He is an incredible actor, woodcarver, and author. I love his honest writing style.

As a nature lover, I really relate to what Offerman writes. He is a true outdoorsman; ready to fish, hunt, paddle, and hike at a moment’s notice.

In Gumption, Offerman features 21 of America’s greatest people ranging from Frederick Douglass to Eleanor Roosevelt to Michael Pollan. It’s witty, it’s informative. These people are gutsy.

The gender ratio was a bit one-sided for me, but this is a list of people that Offerman finds inspiring, not me. I did find several people to relate to though.

Below is the table of contents for Gumption:

See anyone you admire on this list? Anyone you want to learn more about?

History buffs will especially appreciate the first 7 chapters. Theodore Roosevelt has a well-known history of establishing our nation’s national parks and being a true nature-lover. It’s easy to see why Offerman respects and admires this man.

I love getting book recommendations from other books. I’m not familiar with George Saunders’ work or Wendell Berry’s work, but Offerman sure is. I think Saunders and Berry both just made my TBR list.

This book makes me want to take a long walk in the woods with some good friends. Maybe go for a boat ride. It’s wonderful and inspiring.

“Far and away the best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.”

-Nick Offerman

Offerman admits a few of the people featured in this book were ones he wanted to meet. This book was the perfect excuse for him to meet his heroes.

A few historical figures, a few modern celebrities, and a few somewhere in between. Conan O’Brien is featured in the last chapter and I genuinely enjoyed that interview. Good job, Mr. Offerman, on choosing excellent role models and friends.

I recommend Offerman’s book for a wide range of readers: history buffs and music buffs, writers and readers, comedians and actors, young and old. There’s a lot to be learned and loved.

Check out any of Nick Offerman’s books and you won’t be disappointed. I know I’m looking forward to reading more.