Interesting book, people always think of National Lampoon or Second City as the launching pad of the greats but this book gives us a peek at another group that helped launch a lot of create comedians

In-depth history of the Boom Chicago group in the Netherlands. If you want to go deep into it, this is the book for you.

"Boom Chicago Presents the 30 Most Important Years in Dutch History" by Andrew Moskos and Pep Rosenfeld is an absolute gem of a book that immerses readers in the fascinating world of the iconic comedy improv group, Boom Chicago.

This book is a delightful blend of comedy, history, and personal anecdotes that offers a unique perspective on Dutch history through the lens of this talented improvisational troupe. Moskos and Rosenfeld's writing style is engaging and witty, capturing the essence of their comedic genius and making history come alive.

One of the standout features of this book is the way it seamlessly weaves together elements of Boom Chicago's journey with key moments in Dutch history. The authors cleverly connect their own experiences and sketches to significant historical events, creating an entertaining narrative that educates while keeping readers thoroughly entertained.

The incorporation of personal stories and behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the group's performances adds an extra layer of authenticity and intimacy. It allows readers to gain a deeper understanding of the creative process, the challenges faced, and the impact of Boom Chicago on the comedy scene in both the Netherlands and beyond.

I particularly enjoyed how the book showcases the versatility and adaptability of Boom Chicago as they transform historical events into laugh-out-loud comedy gold. The authors' ability to find humor in even the most unexpected historical tidbits is a testament to their comedic brilliance and their deep appreciation for Dutch history.

While I thoroughly enjoyed the humorous aspects of the book, I believe it could have delved a bit deeper into the history itself. While it provided an entertaining overview, I found myself yearning for more in-depth analysis and context at times. However, this minor critique did not detract from the overall enjoyment of the reading experience.

"Boom Chicago Presents the 30 Most Important Years in Dutch History" is a must-read for fans of comedy, improv enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone seeking a fresh and entertaining take on Dutch culture and heritage. Moskos and Rosenfeld skillfully combine comedy and education, leaving readers with a newfound appreciation for the significant moments in Dutch history.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book, and I'm awarding it a solid four stars. Prepare to laugh, learn, and be amazed by the incredible impact of Boom Chicago—a comedy improv group you probably don't even realize you already know! ( )

This book was so interesting! Not only does it give a historical anecdote of each year in Holland from 1993 through 2023, it also tells the story of Boom Chicago from its beginnings to the present. I really enjoyed learning about Dutch history. I was also surprised at who has been through Boom Chicago -- seriously big names in comedy! Each chapter has some of the Boom Chicago Alums talking about that particular year in a back-and-forth, conversation-esque format.

BOOM CHIGAGO presents THE 30 MOST IMPORTANT YEARS IN DUTCH HISTORY (2023) by Andrew Moskos and Pep Rosenfeld. Usually I am not a big fan of tribute books. In the past dozen years I have reviewed perhaps three or four that were agreeable to me, and I was almost without hope when this book arrived on my doorstep. I was very wrong because I loved this book. Akashic Press has yet another great read on there hands.
For those, like me, who didn’t know what a BOOM CHICAGO was, you will wonder how you missed it. Thirty years ago two guys from Northwestern University, just north of Chicago, wanted to go into comedy with eyes on Second City. But, as so many young comics know, that is almost impossible, especially if you want a slot that actually gets paid. So, tired of waiting tables and other meaningless jobs that wouldn’t get them on stage, they decided to head to Amsterdam.
After all, there were and are lots of drugs there, so why not.
Somehow they were inspired to open their own improve club there and, despite the difficuties, not only beat the odds, but also became a proving ground for a vast array of great talent. Rather than suffering through the grind that getting onstage at an improv club in the States provided, they and the comics, actors, writers and unheralded geniuses who showed up, gave birth to a showcase where an aspiring artist could hone their craft not maybe once a week, but nightly. Many would step off a plane from the states and be performing that evening or the next day.
The chapters of the book are arranged in order by year. Each opens with a few paragraphs about what was happening in Amsterdam at the time, or in the States, or in the world in general. That is followed by a conversation among the actors who were part of the group at that time. They talk about comedy and being in a foreign land for the first time. One section is on the odd rituals and customs that Christmas presents. Soccer is a chapter almost by itself. Drugs and sex and how different attitudes are about both were surprising and welcoming to all. Race is discussed. The ability, nay the need to become good at every aspect of performing, is stressed throughout. The actors were also writers, producers of their material, sometime hawking tickets on the street or distributing the show’s flyers or magazine to the public. In short this was a place where you learned quickly what improv, comic acting and writing, and what it takes to put on a daily show, was all about
Toss in a slew of corporate shows that had to be tailored to the individual client and you have an ongoing, ever changing comedy machine producing many talented writers.
There is an early section that highlights a great number of the cast through the years. A short list includes Jordan Peele (Oscar winner), Seth Meyers (as in SNL and Late Night With…, Amber Ruffin (the first black woman to host a late night talk show with The Amber Ruffin Show, Kay Cannon (writer/director of 2021’s Cinderella reboot and director of Blockers and worked on the Pitch Perfect movies). The rest of the list contains many of the best writers, actors and what-have-yous in the television and film industry today.
And to think it all started with a smoke dream.
This is an oral history of a time and a place that makes you wish you had been a part of it. If you were lucky enough to have been in the show, I envy you. If not, this book will give you an insider’s look.
And do not pay full price for a bike if you are planning to stay in Amsterdam for a few weeks, because there is always another way. And speaking of soccer, the FIFA Women’s World Cup play is happening (Go U.S.A.) and the show Ted Lasso is chock full of BOOM alums. ( )