Are you looking for a heartwarming and funny audiobook to enjoy? Then look no further than “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo”. In this audiobook review, we’ll take a closer look at this charming story and its key players, including Last Week Tonight’s host John Oliver and the lovable bunny Marlon Bundo. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy our in-depth review of this delightful audiobook!
Introduction to “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo”
“Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” is a children’s audiobook created by the team behind the critically acclaimed HBO series, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. The audiobook follows the story of Marlon Bundo, a bunny rabbit, and his journey to find love and happiness in a world where not everyone agrees with his choices.
The audiobook was released in March 2018 and quickly became a New York Times bestseller. It was written by Jill Twiss, a writer for Last Week Tonight, and illustrated by E.G. Keller. John Oliver narrates the audiobook, lending his distinct voice and humor to the story. Marlon Bundo is a real rabbit who belongs to Charlotte Pence, the daughter of the former Vice President, Mike Pence.
The creation of the audiobook was inspired by a children’s book titled “Marlon Bundo’s Day in the Life of the Vice President,” which was written by Charlotte Pence and illustrated by her mother, Karen Pence. The book was published at the same time as the audiobook and tells the story of Marlon Bundo’s day with Vice President Mike Pence.
“Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” was released in response to the controversy surrounding Vice President Pence’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights. The audiobook promotes love, acceptance, and inclusivity, and proceeds from its sales were donated to The Trevor Project and AIDS United, two organizations that support LGBTQ+ rights and fight against HIV/AIDS.
Plot Summary of “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo”
The audiobook “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” tells the story of a young bunny named Marlon Bundo who falls in love with another bunny named Wesley. However, their love is challenged when the evil stink bug Vice President, voiced by John Lithgow, announces that same-sex marriage is forbidden in their world.
Marlon and Wesley, with the help of their friends, go on an adventure to fight for their love and change the laws in their community. Along the way, they learn about the importance of love, acceptance, and standing up for what you believe in.
Narration and Performance in “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo”
The audiobook “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” features an all-star cast of voice actors, with Jim Parsons as the narrator, Jesse Tyler Ferguson as Marlon Bundo, and John Lithgow as the stink bug, among others. The narration of the story is engaging and entertaining, with Parsons delivering the witty commentary with ease and precision. Ferguson brings heart and emotion to the character of Marlon Bundo, making the listener feel connected to his journey.
The performance of the voice actors is excellent, capturing the nuances of the characters and bringing them to life in a way that is both humorous and heartfelt. The chemistry between the actors is evident, and they work together seamlessly to create a cohesive and enjoyable listening experience.
The use of sound effects and music further enhances the performance, adding depth and dimension to the story. The sound quality is pristine, allowing the listener to fully immerse themselves in the world of Marlon Bundo and his friends.
The narration and performance of the voice actors in “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” is top-notch, elevating an already well-written and entertaining story to a new level of enjoyment.
Overall, the narration and performance of the audiobook is a highlight of the listening experience. The talented voice actors bring the characters to life in a way that is both authentic and compelling, making “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” a must-listen for fans of the show and anyone looking for an enjoyable and heartwarming story.
Writing Style in “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo”
In terms of writing style, “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” features a playful and humorous tone that aligns with the show’s brand. The story’s narrative is engaging and easy to follow, making it an enjoyable read for both children and adults.
The use of satire and clever wordplay adds depth to the story and allows for subtle social commentary on issues such as politics, power dynamics, and LGBTQ+ acceptance.
The storytelling techniques employed in the audiobook include ample use of dialogues and character interactions that make the story come to life. The clear and concise descriptions of the characters and settings help paint a vivid picture of Marlon Bundo’s world in the reader’s mind.
Overall, John Oliver and co-author Jill Twiss’s writing style is highly effective in delivering a heartwarming and thought-provoking story that entertains and educates at the same time.
Character Development in “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo”
One of the standout elements of “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” is its impressive character development. The main characters- Marlon Bundo, Wesley, and their animal friends- are crafted with depth and nuance, making them both relatable and endearing to readers of all ages.
Marlon Bundo’s journey from a shy and timid bunny to a brave and adventurous one is particularly noteworthy. Through his experiences, the audiobook imparts essential life lessons on facing fears and the power of standing up for oneself.
The supporting cast of animal characters also undergo significant growth, with each character playing a crucial role in the story’s progression, culminating in a heartwarming resolution that will leave listeners feeling fulfilled.
The audiobook’s expertly crafted character development helps establish an emotional connection with the listener, making it a memorable and impactful experience.
Themes and Messages in “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo”
In “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo,” there are several underlying themes and messages that are conveyed in a fun and creative way. The audiobook inspires inclusivity, equal rights, and acceptance of all.
Inclusivity
One of the primary themes of the audiobook is inclusivity. The story conveys the message that everyone deserves to be loved and accepted, no matter who they are or who they love. The characters in the audiobook include a diverse range of animals, each with their unique personalities and abilities. This theme is not only relevant but is also essential in today’s society.
Equal Rights
The audiobook also stresses the importance of equal rights for everyone. The story centers around Marlon Bundo, a bunny who falls in love with another boy bunny. The tale serves as a representation of the fight for equal marriage rights for the LGBTQ+ community. The theme of equal rights is highlighted in a humorous and witty way while still conveying its significance, making the audiobook ideal for people of all ages.
Acceptance
The theme of acceptance is also prominent throughout the story. The character of Marlon Bundo, despite being a bunny, is accepted, loved, and valued by others for who he is. This theme teaches children and adults that everyone has value regardless of their differences. By accepting individuals’ differences, listeners can create a better and more harmonious world.
“Marlon Bundo’s story teaches the value of love, inclusion, and acceptance, making it an ideal listening experience for people of all ages.”
Presentation and Production Value of “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo”
One of the standout features of “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” is its high production value, which sets it apart from many other audiobooks in its genre. The audiobook’s sound quality is top-notch, providing clear and crisp narration throughout the entirety of the story. The music and additional sound elements also add to the overall presentation, creating a more immersive experience for the listener.
The audiobook’s packaging and design contribute to its presentation even before listening. The cover art, featuring Marlon Bundo and his animal friends, is visually appealing and perfectly captures the whimsical nature of the story. Additionally, the audiobook is available in various formats, including CD and digital download, making it easily accessible to a wide audience.
Compared to the print version, the audiobook’s production value enhances the story’s impact, particularly in terms of character voices. Fans of “Last Week Tonight” will recognize the voice cast, which includes Jim Parsons, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, and John Lithgow, among others. Their performances bring the characters to life and add depth to the already-rich story.
In short, “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” boasts impressive production value, from its sound quality to its voice cast and packaging. These elements all come together to create a listening experience that is both enjoyable and professional, showcasing the attention to detail that went into its creation.
Comparison to the Print Version of “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo”
While the audiobook version of “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” has been widely popular, it is worth comparing its experience to that of the print version. While both versions tell the same story, they differ in terms of delivery and presentation.
Audiobook Version | Print Version | |
---|---|---|
Delivery | The audiobook features voice actors and sound effects, adding to the overall experience. | The print version does not have the added benefit of sound, relying solely on the reader’s imagination. |
Presentation | The audiobook provides a linear storyline with clearly defined chapters. | The print version’s format allows for more freedom in reading order and exploration of the illustrations. |
Impact | The audiobook’s voice actors add emotion and depth to the characters, contributing to a powerful message of inclusivity and acceptance. | The visual illustrations in the print version provide a colorful and engaging experience, which can be especially impactful for younger readers. |
Added Value | The audiobook brings the story to life in a unique way, adding an additional layer of entertainment to the storytelling. | The print version allows for a more tactile engagement, with the ability to physically hold and flip through the book. |
Ultimately, the choice between the audiobook and print version of “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” comes down to personal preference. Both offer valuable insights into the story and convey an important message for readers of all ages.
Audience Reception and Impact of “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo”
Since its release in 2018, “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from audiences. The audiobook, which explores themes of inclusivity, acceptance, and equality, struck a chord with listeners across the country.
Many praised the book for its humorous and heartwarming storytelling, as well as its dedication to important issues affecting society today. The performances of the voice actors, including John Lithgow and Jim Parsons, were also widely lauded for their ability to bring the characters to life.
The audiobook’s cultural impact cannot be underestimated, either. The book was a New York Times bestseller for multiple weeks, and it even won a prestigious Emmy award for Outstanding Children’s Program. Additionally, it had significant merchandising success, with the charming Marlon Bundo character becoming popular among kids and adults alike.
Reviews and Awards
Reviews for the audiobook were overwhelmingly positive, with many applauding its humor and warm-hearted message. On Amazon, the audiobook received an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from over 13,000 reviews. One review called it “Beatrix Potter meets John Oliver,” while another said it was “the most comforting audiobook I have listened to in years”.
In addition to its commercial success, “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” was also recognized by the entertainment industry. It was awarded an Emmy for Outstanding Children’s Program, as well as being nominated for a Grammy for Best Spoken Word Album.
Cultural Impact
The audiobook’s cultural impact was apparent both in the media and in popular culture. The New York Times reported on the book’s success, highlighting its underlying message of inclusivity and acceptance. Additionally, the book was parodied by the Pence family, who released their own book with a completely different message.
However, many saw this parody as a humorous nod to the original book’s importance, with some even suggesting that it brought even more attention to the message of the original story. Ultimately, “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” left a lasting imprint on audiences and the cultural conversation as a whole.
Analysis of the Social Commentary in “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo”
“Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” is a cleverly crafted audiobook that uses humor and relatable characters to address important social issues. Through the story of Marlon Bundo, a loveable bunny who falls in love with another male bunny, the audiobook tackles themes of inclusivity, acceptance, and equality.
The audiobook’s use of animals allows for a discussion of heavy topics in a lighthearted, approachable way that could resonate with younger audiences. Moreover, the way the story has been presented with both Oliver’s and Jill Twiss’s touch provides an escape from a style of commentary that more often than not creates divisive discussions. “Last Week Tonight with John Oliver” has previously been known for its social commentary, and this audiobook is no exception.
One of the most striking aspects of the story is its efforts towards promoting inclusivity. The characters’ attitudes towards Marlon’s sexual orientation are portrayed as positive and accepting, promoting the idea that people should be free to love whomever they choose without facing discrimination.
Although the story is undoubtedly entertaining, it also manages to convey a powerful message about the importance of open-mindedness and acceptance. By using storytelling as a means of social commentary, the audiobook effectively engages its audience and conveys its message in an impactful way.
Overall, “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” is a refreshing and poignant audiobook that encourages open discussion and understanding towards others and their views. It is a must-listen for advocates of inclusivity, social equality, and John Oliver fans.
Pros and Cons of “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo”
After a thorough review of “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo,” it’s time to examine the pros and cons of this audiobook.
Pros:
- Humor: The witty and humorous tone of the audiobook captures the attention of the listener and keeps them engaged throughout the story.
- Social Commentary: The audiobook effectively presents significant themes such as equality and inclusivity in society, promoting valuable messages.
- Performance: The engaging and dynamic performance by the voice actors elevates the overall quality and feel of the production.
Cons:
- Too Short: At just under 20 minutes in length, the audiobook may leave some listeners wanting more content or a longer story.
- Issues with Representation: While the book promotes inclusivity, some audiences may critique its representation of certain characters, which may not align completely with their own perspectives.
The audiobook delivers a great combination of humor and social commentary, although it falls short in length and representation.
Personal Recommendation and Final Thoughts on “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo”
After listening to “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo,” I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an entertaining and thought-provoking listening experience. The audiobook brilliantly combines humor, heart, and social commentary through the charming story of Marlon Bundo, and the talented voice actors bring the characters to life in a way that is truly captivating.
John Oliver’s involvement in creating this audiobook adds another layer of interest, and the clear message of inclusivity and acceptance throughout the story is both timely and important. The writing style is engaging and effective, and the narration and production values are outstanding.
Overall, “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates great storytelling and meaningful messages. It deserves all the accolades it has received and stands out as a truly exceptional audiobook.
“The world is full of different bunnies, all of whom are deserving of love and acceptance, even when they’re different from you.”
Conclusion
Overall, “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” is a charming and entertaining audiobook that delivers a powerful message through its engaging storyline and well-developed characters. The narration and performance are top-notch, bringing the story to life in a way that is both heartfelt and humorous. The audiobook’s writing style is effective, with the use of humor and storytelling techniques keeping listeners engaged throughout.
While there are some minor differences between the audiobook and the print version, the audiobook stands on its own, offering an engaging and enjoyable listening experience. The social commentary present in the story is thoughtful and meaningful, addressing important issues in a way that is accessible and relatable.
While there are a few minor flaws in the production value, these do not detract from the overall quality of the audiobook. In fact, the production value is quite good, with the addition of music and other elements adding to the overall experience.
For those looking for a fun and thought-provoking audiobook, “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” comes highly recommended. Its themes and messages are timeless and relevant, making it a must-listen for anyone looking for a story that will both entertain and enlighten.
Overall, this audiobook review concludes that “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo” is a worthwhile addition to any audiobook collection, offering a memorable and impactful listening experience.