Satirist mixes memoir and politics

Satirist Matt Forde has written his first book, mixing autobiography with a behind-the-scenes view of politics from his time as a Labour party adviser.

Publisher Quercus say that Politically Homeless will offer ‘often hilarious personal stories and… explore themes such as tribalism, the curse of complacency and why some politicians refuse to speak normally.’

Forde said: ‘When I worked in politics, I was barely allowed to write a leaflet so you can imagine my surprise at having written a whole book.

‘I’ve always loved politics, but for moderates like me, the last few years have been hell. If you’ve found the last few years unbearable, this book is for you. I hope it helps you find some peace in this world. That said, if you are a populist demagogue, give it a go, you might like it.’

Forde has been obsessed with politics since he was nine  years old. Raised by a single mum on benefits in inner city Nottingham, he joined the Socialist Workers Party, selling Marxism Today. Later he started working for MPs ‘in dingy back rooms in Nottinghamshire’, but says he became disillusioned with politics with the  rise of Corbyn, Brexit and Trump.

Katy Follain, the non-fiction publisher at Quercus who acquired the book rights from Forde’s agent Avalon said the comedian ‘has a brilliant gift for poking fun at politics and politicians, while also showing huge respect for this complex industry’. 

She added: ’His passion comes from caring deeply for those who are less fortunate, and from knowing that a government can make or break a country and its people. He’s got some fantastic and funny stories where more often than not nobody – including Matt – comes out of it looking good.

‘ I know so many people who are feeling disillusioned, and for whom this book will speak volumes while making them laugh at the same time.’

Politically Homeless  will be published on  October 8, and can be ordered here in hardback or here for Kindle.

Forde previously hosted four series of Unspun with Matt Forde on Dave, and currently presents Absolute Radio’s weekly Rock ‘n’ Roll Football Show as well as The Political Party podcast. During its seven-year run, Forde has interviewed the likes of  Tony Blair, Alastair Campbell,  Nigel Farage, Harriet Harman, Neil Kinnock, Jacob Rees-Mogg, and Nicola Sturgeon.

Published: 22 Jul 2020