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How I Saved the World
The host of the Fox News shows Watters World and The Five lays out the only path forward for our nation—listening to him—in this funny, offbeat book which echoes his irreverent voice.
Many things have made our nation great. An unparalleled group of Founding Fathers. A history of increasing freedom and equality. A tradition of muckraking journalism. And Jesse Watters chasing corrupt judges and idiot CEOs down hallways to shove a microphone in their face.
In My Plan to Save the World, Watters takes readers on a tour of his life from basement-dwelling Fox minion to pampered champion of right-thinking Americans. He has divined great truths about the nature of our country while stumbling across beaches asking oblivious college students basic political questions and while stumbling over basic political questions on Air Force One with the President. Interspersed are his thoughtful suggestions for overcoming left-wing radicalism, maintaining American democracy, moving beyond aging hippies (like his long-suffering parents), saving the world from social justice warriors and the deep state—all while rolling his eyes at Juan Williams in only the nicest way.
Watters outlines the stark choices ahead of us, between all-American hamburgers and leftist Green New Deal breadlines (okay, maybe that one is a no-brainer) and shows the way for order and fairness to be restored. A manifesto and a call-to-arms from a man for all seasons, My Plan to Save the World is a hilarious, enlightening, entertaining book with a reasonable chance of winning a Nobel Prize in every category, even chemistry.
Unabridged
Many things have made our nation great. An unparalleled group of Founding Fathers. A history of increasing freedom and equality. A tradition of muckraking journalism. And Jesse Watters chasing corrupt judges and idiot CEOs down hallways to shove a microphone in their face.
In My Plan to Save the World, Watters takes readers on a tour of his life from basement-dwelling Fox minion to pampered champion of right-thinking Americans. He has divined great truths about the nature of our country while stumbling across beaches asking oblivious college students basic political questions and while stumbling over basic political questions on Air Force One with the President. Interspersed are his thoughtful suggestions for overcoming left-wing radicalism, maintaining American democracy, moving beyond aging hippies (like his long-suffering parents), saving the world from social justice warriors and the deep state—all while rolling his eyes at Juan Williams in only the nicest way.
Watters outlines the stark choices ahead of us, between all-American hamburgers and leftist Green New Deal breadlines (okay, maybe that one is a no-brainer) and shows the way for order and fairness to be restored. A manifesto and a call-to-arms from a man for all seasons, My Plan to Save the World is a hilarious, enlightening, entertaining book with a reasonable chance of winning a Nobel Prize in every category, even chemistry.
Unabridged
289 pages, Hardcover
First published June 9, 2021
1342 people are currently reading
967 people want to read
About the author
Jesse Watters
3 books79 followersJesse Watters is the co-host of The Five and host of Watters' World. Before this, Jesse was a producer and correspondent for The O'Reilly Factor, which showcased his comedic street interviews, aggressive confrontations and entertaining adventures all across the country. Born in Philadelphia, Jesse graduated from Trinity College in Hartford, CT with a Bachelors' in History.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 297 reviews
July 20, 2021
Most books by news reporters or pundits are pretty boring and self aggrandizing or political diatribes. Jesse Watters' "How I Saved the World" is mostly a memoir, but certainly does set forth his politics. However, whether you agree or disagree with those politics, this book is entertaining, funny and a refreshing breath of fresh air in the genre. Watters doesn't pretend to be what he is not. His humor is almost entirely self-deprecating and he never takes himself very seriously.
January 27, 2024
Very much his personality. Very little of the truly personal revealed. He is a TOUGH cookie. Despite his Mom emails/ texts and youth stories this is all about the TV news career / persona. Not that it is a bad thing at all, but just not what you would expect from a memoir of someone who is 41 or 42 at the writing.
Loved some of the chapters, but most were name drop and ambush detail "interview" stories. I thought he was at core honest but at the same time his personality is so "me" centered that it becomes a framed with savvy portrait more than an heartfelt bilge of feeling reckoning or some reactive to experience posit.
Actually I truly enjoyed it but could care less about all the CPAC and Media dinner extravaganzas of he said, she said to be enthralled. So many of these people are not worth the read time. Truly. Most especially the Hollywood or music scene/ sports so called icons. Most of them are mental midgets. The stories often confirm. But it also takes way, way more guile and hubris to mix, IMHO. So much posturing!
Lots of true humor though, and that's rare in this tawdry and trivial gripe / victim time. Complaining and venting has become an art form. This is NOT one of those, in fact the opposite. His childhood assignments to survival and independence leadership camps sound appalling. Child abuse by some good liberals (his parents sound appalling too but at the same time concerned LOL!), I tend to believe.
Regardless his equivocations about the other people on The Five were 5 star. I couldn't agree with him more. Final note. I would NOT wanted to be married to Jesse Watters. He is absolutely his biggest fan. In all aspects.
Loved some of the chapters, but most were name drop and ambush detail "interview" stories. I thought he was at core honest but at the same time his personality is so "me" centered that it becomes a framed with savvy portrait more than an heartfelt bilge of feeling reckoning or some reactive to experience posit.
Actually I truly enjoyed it but could care less about all the CPAC and Media dinner extravaganzas of he said, she said to be enthralled. So many of these people are not worth the read time. Truly. Most especially the Hollywood or music scene/ sports so called icons. Most of them are mental midgets. The stories often confirm. But it also takes way, way more guile and hubris to mix, IMHO. So much posturing!
Lots of true humor though, and that's rare in this tawdry and trivial gripe / victim time. Complaining and venting has become an art form. This is NOT one of those, in fact the opposite. His childhood assignments to survival and independence leadership camps sound appalling. Child abuse by some good liberals (his parents sound appalling too but at the same time concerned LOL!), I tend to believe.
Regardless his equivocations about the other people on The Five were 5 star. I couldn't agree with him more. Final note. I would NOT wanted to be married to Jesse Watters. He is absolutely his biggest fan. In all aspects.
July 8, 2021
What's not to love
I loved and laughed in the beginning. I thought and stopped sometimes during the reading. I finished with I loved the book, I love Jesse,I love The Five.
Thank you Jesse for allowing us to see you and daily attempt to figure out Gutfeld! I never miss his program either.
I loved and laughed in the beginning. I thought and stopped sometimes during the reading. I finished with I loved the book, I love Jesse,I love The Five.
Thank you Jesse for allowing us to see you and daily attempt to figure out Gutfeld! I never miss his program either.
February 14, 2022
Somewhat informative and mildly entertaining. Returning to the library for the second time. I dislike reading on a schedule/timeline.
July 18, 2021
A book of memoirs by the immensely likable Jesse Watters. If you are a fan of his, you will like his book.
October 2, 2024
Jesse Watters, host of Primetime and co-host of The Five on Fox News, brings his characteristic humor and candor to the pages of How I Saved the World. The book is a testament to his unique perspective on life and politics, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at his career and the lessons he has learned along the way. All with a big dose of humility which I did not expect.
Watters' ability to blend humor with serious commentary is on full display in this book. From the very first chapter, his hysterical wit is evident as he recounts stories from his time on the street interviewing unsuspecting passersby. These anecdotes not only entertain but also highlight his down-to-earth nature and his willingness to tackle tough questions head-on. I honestly laughed aloud when I was listening to the book. I could hear Watters saying all these funny claims.
Two major themes emerge throughout the book:
1. Don't Take Yourself Too Seriously: Watters advocates for the importance of maintaining a sense of humor, even when dealing with serious issues. He reminds readers that laughter can be a powerful tool for diffusing tension and finding common ground. His mother’s daily texts certainly ground him.
2. Hard Work Pays Off: Through personal stories and professional experiences, Watters emphasizes the value of dedication and perseverance. He shows that putting in the work can lead to success and recognition, both in the media world and beyond. He describes ambushing politicians and judges in terms of a science.
How I Saved the World is a must-read for fans of Jesse Watters who enjoy his on-screen persona and are curious about the man behind it. The book provides a deeper understanding of his viewpoints and the motivations driving his career. It's also a great fit for anyone seeking a light-hearted yet insightful take on the intersection of politics and pop culture.
In How I Saved the World, Jesse Watters offers a refreshing blend of humor and sincerity. His willingness to share personal insights while keeping the tone engaging makes for an entertaining read. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his work, this book promises laughter, reflection, and a reminder not to take life too seriously.
The only thing that I do not like about Watters is the fake news network that he is still on. How they have gone so far downhill in four short years is beyond me. They really caved to the censorship man. I am looking forward to Jesse moving on so that we can hear his real points of view.
Watters' ability to blend humor with serious commentary is on full display in this book. From the very first chapter, his hysterical wit is evident as he recounts stories from his time on the street interviewing unsuspecting passersby. These anecdotes not only entertain but also highlight his down-to-earth nature and his willingness to tackle tough questions head-on. I honestly laughed aloud when I was listening to the book. I could hear Watters saying all these funny claims.
Two major themes emerge throughout the book:
1. Don't Take Yourself Too Seriously: Watters advocates for the importance of maintaining a sense of humor, even when dealing with serious issues. He reminds readers that laughter can be a powerful tool for diffusing tension and finding common ground. His mother’s daily texts certainly ground him.
2. Hard Work Pays Off: Through personal stories and professional experiences, Watters emphasizes the value of dedication and perseverance. He shows that putting in the work can lead to success and recognition, both in the media world and beyond. He describes ambushing politicians and judges in terms of a science.
How I Saved the World is a must-read for fans of Jesse Watters who enjoy his on-screen persona and are curious about the man behind it. The book provides a deeper understanding of his viewpoints and the motivations driving his career. It's also a great fit for anyone seeking a light-hearted yet insightful take on the intersection of politics and pop culture.
In How I Saved the World, Jesse Watters offers a refreshing blend of humor and sincerity. His willingness to share personal insights while keeping the tone engaging makes for an entertaining read. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his work, this book promises laughter, reflection, and a reminder not to take life too seriously.
The only thing that I do not like about Watters is the fake news network that he is still on. How they have gone so far downhill in four short years is beyond me. They really caved to the censorship man. I am looking forward to Jesse moving on so that we can hear his real points of view.
July 12, 2021
Appreciate the insight
I liked Trump because I was sick of America having to kiss the feet of the olpec oil tyrants. It was good to see an American President stand up to the enemies of our country. It's never a intelligent move to expect perfection from a mere man. In spite of his imperfections he did good things for this country. Thank you for the enlightenment.
I liked Trump because I was sick of America having to kiss the feet of the olpec oil tyrants. It was good to see an American President stand up to the enemies of our country. It's never a intelligent move to expect perfection from a mere man. In spite of his imperfections he did good things for this country. Thank you for the enlightenment.
September 25, 2021
As a fan of Watters, it was an entertaining book. Each chapter is designated as how he "saved" something and is written in a humorous way. It is not a biography but a time line of how he succeeded on TV. The audio narration was good but it would have been fun to have Jesse do it.
November 13, 2021
Funny book and a must read for anyone who takes politics too seriously.
July 14, 2021
I don't usually read non-fiction but I heard Jesse Watters talking about this on TV. There was something in what he said that made me think I might like this. It is written as an almost comedic biography but it was so interesting to hear his history and get some of the background of how the tv news industry works. It was also interesting hearing about Trump as a regular person and no just how he is portrayed. I thought it was worth my time and I'm glad I read it. Now back to fiction where I belong.
August 30, 2021
I like Jesse Watters. I like him more after reading his book.
yeah-no
July 16, 2021ma'am what is this
January 12, 2022
I like Jesse Waters and admire the work he does on Fox. This book was good, but I expected something better. His writing style is much the same as he speaks, which is what I like. Some things went into too much detail and others had not enough. Other chapters seemed to have bounce around, something I don't like.
January 1, 2022
I tried to listen to new voices. He was cruel to his own mother. He makes fun of his parents throughout his book. At first I thought he might just have a complicated relationship. Then he has a whole chapter dedicated to making fun of his mother’s concern for him.
July 18, 2021
JW is a male Foxnews idiot with a lot of money. Fox lies constantly.
July 16, 2021
Watters' conversational style, personal experiences, political insights and razor-sharp wit are key components in his compelling story — one that delivers tremendous payoff — from his account of a certain harrowing NYC subway ride to recollections of being raised by ultra liberal parents to the startling revelation that during his time working at The O'Reilly Factor, many staff members were — democrats.
His lifelong work ethic is impressive. Earning his current celebrated FOX News status, Watters "did what (he) was told," as he climbed the ladder from the basement newsroom to the executive boardroom, from behind-the-scenes anonymity to front-and-center notoriety. Watters cooks with gas, reflecting on his past journalistic missions, from Hollywood high-clearance events to a Florida nude beach resort to an Ivy League gay sex party. He even once rescued the baby Jesus from the clutches of Satan — sorta. Love him or hate him, "How I Saved the World" is as edge-of-your-seat riveting as it is laugh-out-loud funny. And as Watters himself points out frequently throughout, he's "the nicest guy in the world."
From puffed-up to self-deprecating, Watters' engaging and candid sense of humor drives the story, as he takes readers on his 300-page ambush — making friends, burning bridges and dropping names all along the way. However, a few names have been changed, e.g. Ruddy Balzac — priceless. And his mom's near-endless slew of scathing text messages are hilarious.
Even Watters likely would confess that the book's bold title might overreach a smidge. Clearly a multi tasker, he can peck at his keyboard and wink at his audience simultaneously. And by not taking himself too seriously, he lets us all in on the gag. Although I'd dispute the claim that he "saved the world," for a guy like me who was starved for a seasonal treat, Watters definitely at least saved my summer.
-Christopher Long
(July 2021)
His lifelong work ethic is impressive. Earning his current celebrated FOX News status, Watters "did what (he) was told," as he climbed the ladder from the basement newsroom to the executive boardroom, from behind-the-scenes anonymity to front-and-center notoriety. Watters cooks with gas, reflecting on his past journalistic missions, from Hollywood high-clearance events to a Florida nude beach resort to an Ivy League gay sex party. He even once rescued the baby Jesus from the clutches of Satan — sorta. Love him or hate him, "How I Saved the World" is as edge-of-your-seat riveting as it is laugh-out-loud funny. And as Watters himself points out frequently throughout, he's "the nicest guy in the world."
From puffed-up to self-deprecating, Watters' engaging and candid sense of humor drives the story, as he takes readers on his 300-page ambush — making friends, burning bridges and dropping names all along the way. However, a few names have been changed, e.g. Ruddy Balzac — priceless. And his mom's near-endless slew of scathing text messages are hilarious.
Even Watters likely would confess that the book's bold title might overreach a smidge. Clearly a multi tasker, he can peck at his keyboard and wink at his audience simultaneously. And by not taking himself too seriously, he lets us all in on the gag. Although I'd dispute the claim that he "saved the world," for a guy like me who was starved for a seasonal treat, Watters definitely at least saved my summer.
-Christopher Long
(July 2021)
September 25, 2021
This book killed me on so many fronts. Maybe I like my politics pithy with a snarky undertone. I have learned more about our country in 18 months of being a Republican than in 40 years of being a Democrat, and it's because of personalities like Jesse Watters, whose no-nonsense approach to journalism makes too much rational sense to be ignored. Once you see what is uncovered, you can't unsee it, and you can't go back. The bonus - and it's a big one - is how much more f*ing fun it is on the other side. It doesn't take itself too seriously, because nobody should. Life's too short, and boy did I waste a lot of it with a misguided sense of self-righteousness. As Jesse says, "Political correctness is a trivial pursuit for people who have it too good. Again, it's white college liberals being offended on behalf of someone else."
His quotes from Gutfeld cracked me up, 2 favorites: "If you're going to kill your spouse, take them hiking" and "I fucking hate the ocean".
And I know Trump is polarizing, but he's effing funny. When asked by Jesse during his first presidential visit to the White House what Trump thought Hilary was up to now, he responds, "Crooked? What's she doing now? She's not being president." How can anyone not laugh at that? Republicans are a good freaking time.
His quotes from Gutfeld cracked me up, 2 favorites: "If you're going to kill your spouse, take them hiking" and "I fucking hate the ocean".
And I know Trump is polarizing, but he's effing funny. When asked by Jesse during his first presidential visit to the White House what Trump thought Hilary was up to now, he responds, "Crooked? What's she doing now? She's not being president." How can anyone not laugh at that? Republicans are a good freaking time.
July 27, 2021
I really enjoy Fox News out of any news broadcasting network. When I read this book, I developed an association of how socially abusive society really is. The relating concepts that capitalize on the social political disputes, was really what secured in of myself the relative associations of the experiences of why and how the social concepts in of life, were the actual social political concerns that are very much an influence in society. An influence, in of, knowing why social issues in life exist and why there is no relations in of life that satisfy peace with such social issue.
August 8, 2021
Everyone knows I’m a Watters fan. Therefore you know I loved his book. It is just what I expected to read. Lots of political info and history with enough humor and satire to keep me entertained. You can read through this book and follow the play by play of politics through the Trump campaign and presidency into the Liberal Biden era. Much like the old time history books only with lots of Jesse’s humor. Great book, Jesse!
July 25, 2021
This book was really funny and did a good job of highlighting what Jesse has done since graduating college. I've forgotten some of his Factor shticks so those were fun to relive. There were really no personal stories though and those sprinkled in would've been nice to know that side of Jesse. Even if someone doesn't agree with his politics, they would probably still enjoy this book.
July 27, 2021
Jesse Watters—My Fave Cable News Personality
This book is a hoot! Not politically correct. Not for the faint of heart, no matter your political leaning; but if you are someone who can endure some truth, and some ribbing, and you love sarcastic tongue-in-cheek humor, reading this will make you LOL many times! A 100% must-read for fans of The Five!
This book is a hoot! Not politically correct. Not for the faint of heart, no matter your political leaning; but if you are someone who can endure some truth, and some ribbing, and you love sarcastic tongue-in-cheek humor, reading this will make you LOL many times! A 100% must-read for fans of The Five!
July 14, 2021
Love the “mom text” chapter!”
November 5, 2024
This is a quick and easy read, in the sarcastically self-aggrandizing Jesse Watters style. If you follow the news and have a decent interest in what happens in America, How I Saved the World is not going to tell you much more than what you already knew about the state of the country. It is, however, a delicious book that opens a window into a likeable character and shows you how things are done in the news world (or at least how Jesse Watters has done them).
For instance, I didn’t know that ambush journalism can actually be an instrument for change. While I was initially taken aback by these episodes, Jesse Watters ended up winning me over. Apparently, ridiculing people may help put them back on the right path. This is in fact, the premise of some of the book’s chapters that tell the story of Jesse’s contribution to changes in law, behaviors or attitudes in the U.S.
Despite their titles, some chapters, especially the last ones, do not seem to have much to do with Jesse saving anything. However, he makes a good point in the Epilogue. He is a soldier on many fronts, so we are left to assume that his political analysis is part of the fighting for truth and “saving the world.”
Though a bit all over the place, I felt that the book was, among other things, a good pretext for Jesse Watters to lay out facts that are worth repeating. Some pages are brushing over recent or current events, characters and beliefs, (probably not developed enough to convince an unbeliever, nor to offer the believer anything new). Jesse’s personal anecdotes and style keep the seriousness of these pages under control, so the book never becomes tiring.
The “mom texts” chapter towards the end of the volume allows you to take a funny break before diving into the presidential stories of the last years. Jesse's footnotes are short and hilarious, part of the book's charm. Very much like Donald Trump, whose persona colors the last chapters of the book, Jesse Watters likes to turn the rules on their head. Finally, the book gave me a few loud laughs, which is a lot when you have a cough, so that’s a very good sign.
The back-cover blurbs are as funny as the book. They are part of the whole picture. Whoever knows anything about human psychology understands very well that, underneath Jesse Watters’ apparent self-centeredness, there is a guy who doesn't take himself very seriously. By poking fun at himself, Jesse Watters makes himself unattackable. He can then express his opinions without paying much attention to the haters' noise. Three stars for a mildly entertaining book.
For instance, I didn’t know that ambush journalism can actually be an instrument for change. While I was initially taken aback by these episodes, Jesse Watters ended up winning me over. Apparently, ridiculing people may help put them back on the right path. This is in fact, the premise of some of the book’s chapters that tell the story of Jesse’s contribution to changes in law, behaviors or attitudes in the U.S.
Despite their titles, some chapters, especially the last ones, do not seem to have much to do with Jesse saving anything. However, he makes a good point in the Epilogue. He is a soldier on many fronts, so we are left to assume that his political analysis is part of the fighting for truth and “saving the world.”
Though a bit all over the place, I felt that the book was, among other things, a good pretext for Jesse Watters to lay out facts that are worth repeating. Some pages are brushing over recent or current events, characters and beliefs, (probably not developed enough to convince an unbeliever, nor to offer the believer anything new). Jesse’s personal anecdotes and style keep the seriousness of these pages under control, so the book never becomes tiring.
The “mom texts” chapter towards the end of the volume allows you to take a funny break before diving into the presidential stories of the last years. Jesse's footnotes are short and hilarious, part of the book's charm. Very much like Donald Trump, whose persona colors the last chapters of the book, Jesse Watters likes to turn the rules on their head. Finally, the book gave me a few loud laughs, which is a lot when you have a cough, so that’s a very good sign.
The back-cover blurbs are as funny as the book. They are part of the whole picture. Whoever knows anything about human psychology understands very well that, underneath Jesse Watters’ apparent self-centeredness, there is a guy who doesn't take himself very seriously. By poking fun at himself, Jesse Watters makes himself unattackable. He can then express his opinions without paying much attention to the haters' noise. Three stars for a mildly entertaining book.
August 20, 2021
Well, if you like Jesse Watters (I do), you will enjoy this book. It is basically an autobiography. Jesse talks a bit about his upbringing, his adolescence, and how he came to have his conservative political views. He talks about his early jobs, how he came to work for Fox News, and discusses many of his assignments during his role as a "man on the street" for the O'Reilly Factor, as well as his current weekend show, Watter's World. He does all of this in an informative, interesting, and humorous manner. This is a quick, easy read, and thoroughly enjoyable. As I said, if you are a fan of Jesse Watters, you will be a fan of this book.
September 4, 2021
This was a really funny book! This is a memoir of Jesse Watters' life and rise in the news/TV world. He has some very self-deprecating humor about his failures at various early attempts in his career. I enjoyed his experiences with "ambush interviews" and "man on the street" interviews. It would definitely be challenging to do these interviews. He approaches his career, his opinions, and his life with sarcasm and a refreshing sense of humor. A fun, quick read.
June 26, 2023
Hilarious and entertaining! It was great to learn more about Jesse’s career and backstory, as he is one of my favorite personalities on FOX. I especially appreciated the parts where he talked about his “man-on-the-street” interviews and their effectiveness in getting important legislation passed. My only complaint: needed more Mom’s texts!! That was by far my favorite section of the book. Can’t wait for the eventual next one!
August 1, 2021
I liked it.
October 24, 2021
Hilarious!
January 14, 2022
I am a Jessie Watters fan and this book is a lot of fun.
January 8, 2022
I listened to the audiobook. I don’t like when a book is written in first person but the audiobook is read by someone else. The book needed to be read by Watters’ sarcastic voice.
He tells a story about his parents sending him to nature camp. I cannot see him surviving that. He seems about as outdoorsy as I am.
I think it could have been organized better. It bounces around from personal family stories to professional stories to his thoughts on news stories.
The section of “mom texts” was the best part. Those are always funny.
He tells a story about his parents sending him to nature camp. I cannot see him surviving that. He seems about as outdoorsy as I am.
I think it could have been organized better. It bounces around from personal family stories to professional stories to his thoughts on news stories.
The section of “mom texts” was the best part. Those are always funny.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 297 reviews