Just because they’re protecting the government from foreign threats doesn’t mean they take themselves too seriously. This collection of true antics from inside the Central Intelligence Agency, one of the most secretive agencies in the world, includes declassified initiation pranks, Photoshop forgeries, training mishaps, and creative practical jokes. A former CIA officer (and mastermind behind some of the included pranks) reveals how intelligent Intelligence operatives are.
From impressionable rookies to computer-savvy tricksters, these unique professionals challenge the James Bond fantasies of espionage. This compilation addresses the problems operatives face, such as what to do when your child gives herself an alias, what phrases to learn when traveling in a terrorist country, and how to choose that perfect surveillance location, all with humor and witty observation.
The information included in this book was provided by the extended Agency family, as well as officers in other U.S. intelligence agencies, currently serving or retired.
- Title : The Secret Book of CIA Humor
- Author : Edward Mickolus
- Publisher : Pelican Publishing
- Publication Date : September 2, 2011
- Language : English
- Paperback : 192 pages
- ISBN-10 : 1589809041
- ISBN-13 : 978-1589809048
- Item Weight : 14.4 ounces
- Dimensions : 6.25 x 0.75 x 9.25 inches
Upon its release, it was #10 in US Humor on Amazon.com, which also listed it as #15 in hot new releases.
Subject of interview by:
Scott Simon on NPR in September 2011
BBC World in January 2012
Standup routine at The Riot Act in Washington, DC.
Reviews of this book:
“A fun, funny, accurate, and occasionally awkward (what were they thinking?) portrayal of one of the more interesting aspects of life in the CIA. For some readers, it is a genuine trip down memory lane. For others, it is a chance to see the dry and creative humor that allowed so many loyal employees to safely let off steam as they otherwise quietly fought to keep their country safe.”
“We haven’t laughed this much in ages! Not only does this book offer those of us who will never get closer to the CIA than an episode of “Covert Affairs” a unique insider’s view of “The Company”, this book is truly, laugh-out-loud funny!”
“I gave this to my husband for father’s day and he laughed so hard he almost peed in his pants. If you want a view into the CIA with an interesting read this is the book for you!”
“This one will keep you laughing far into the night.”
