Books Like How to Test Negative for Stupid

Michael Moore

Like Kennedy's takedown of Washington, Moore aims pointed, funny jabs at political elites and their excuses. His tone is combative and cheeky, so fans of the Senator's blunt, mocking style will recognise it right away.

Jay Heinrichs

Heinrichs is a witty guide to rhetoric, full of sly examples from politics and everyday life. Readers who enjoy the Senator's quick comebacks and clever framing will find this a fun, practical companion.

Ambrose Bierce

Bierce's short, acid definitions skewer politicians, lawyers and public life with the same dry wit that makes Kennedy's one-liners land. It is a classic for anyone who likes their political commentary very short and very sharp.

Tina Fey

Fey's memoir is brisk, self-deprecating and full of sharp observations about public life and ambition. Readers who enjoyed the Senator's conversational, unfiltered voice will appreciate her quick, confident humour.

Amy Poehler

Poehler mixes comic essays with frank reflections on work and fame, in a chatty tone that rewards anyone who liked the Senator's casual, zinger-filled storytelling about his own career.

Mindy Kaling

Kaling's essays are breezy, observant and playful about her own foibles. For a reader who enjoyed the book's mix of self-mockery and sharp takes on modern life, this is a light, funny follow-up.

James W. Loewen

Loewen shows how comfortable American history textbooks gloss over uncomfortable facts. Readers who laughed at the Senator's jab about trusting government and failing history class will enjoy this engaging, skeptical account.

Jon Ronson

Ronson goes inside fringe movements and conspiracy circles with wry, bemused curiosity. It suits fans of the Senator's jokes about conspiracy theories and the odd people who believe them.

Trevor Noah

Noah tells stories from his childhood under apartheid with sharp, warm humour about how absurd official systems can be. Readers who enjoyed the book's mix of comedy and critique of government will find it resonant.

John Kennedy Toole

Set in New Orleans, this comic novel is packed with eccentric characters and gloriously absurd situations. Fans of the Senator's Louisiana stories and his love of colourful, ridiculous people will feel right at home.

Joseph Heller

Heller's satire of bureaucratic nonsense is deadpan and relentlessly funny. Readers who enjoyed the Senator's take on Washington's absurdities will recognise the same pleasure in logic that goes wrong.

David Sedaris

Sedaris's essays are short, sharp and full of wry self-observation about everyday absurdity. For someone who enjoyed the book's punchy, anecdotal humour, these pieces offer the same quick laughs.