Author: E. Jean Carroll
Publisher: St. Martin’s Press (2025)
Print Length: 368 pages
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E. Jean Carroll’s Not My Type: One Woman vs. a President is not your typical courtroom drama. It’s a sharp, witty, and deeply personal account of Carroll’s legal battles with then former President Donald Trump, and it reads like a cross between a legal thriller, a stand-up comedy routine, and a memoir. If you’re expecting a dry, procedural recounting of lawsuits, think again—this book is as much about the absurdity of the situation as it is about the gravity of the accusations. Carroll’s voice is unapologetically bold, and her humor is razor-sharp, making this a compelling and surprisingly entertaining read.
The Premise: A Battle of Epic (and Absurd) Proportions
At its core, Not My Type chronicles Carroll’s lawsuits against Trump, including the infamous case where a jury found him liable for sexually abusing and defaming her in the 1990s. But Carroll doesn’t just recount the legal proceedings—she dives headfirst into the chaos, the comedy, and the cast of characters that surrounded her during these trials. From the “steel rod” Judge Lewis Kaplan, who apparently moonlights as a Colbert-level comedian, to Trump’s attorney Joe Tacopina, whom Carroll describes as “built like Popeye” with a voice like “a shotgun in a gravel pit,” the courtroom becomes a stage for high drama and even higher comedy. Carroll’s ability to find humor in such a serious and personal ordeal is nothing short of remarkable. She describes sitting so close to Trump in the courtroom that she could hear his “snorts, whines, bawling, spitting, and hissing” and even imagines what it would be like to grab his hair. It’s a surreal image, and Carroll’s vivid descriptions make you feel like you’re right there with her, cringing and laughing in equal measure.
The Humor: Laughing Through the Pain
One of the most striking aspects of Not My Type is Carroll’s use of humor to navigate the absurdity of her situation. She doesn’t shy away from the seriousness of the allegations or the emotional toll of the trials, but she also doesn’t let the weight of it all crush her spirit. Instead, she leans into the ridiculousness of the courtroom antics and the larger-than-life personalities involved. For example, Carroll describes Trump’s legal team with a mix of awe and bemusement. Alina Habba, one of Trump’s attorneys, is portrayed as a stunningly beautiful but hilariously inept lawyer with “cheekbones like tulip bulbs” and “eyes like a baby seal.” Meanwhile, Carroll’s own attorney, Roberta Kaplan, is a “battle-hardened warrior” who thrives on conflict. These descriptions are so vivid and colorful that you can’t help but chuckle, even as you recognize the high stakes of the situation. Carroll’s humor isn’t just a coping mechanism—it’s a weapon. By laughing at the absurdity of it all, she takes back some of the power that was taken from her. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there’s room for levity and resilience.
The Serious Side: Justice and Vindication
While the humor is a major highlight of the book, Carroll doesn’t lose sight of the gravity of her story. She reflects on the emotional toll of testifying about her personal life, the thrill of winning two lawsuits and a total of $88 million, and the broader implications of holding a powerful man accountable for his actions. The book is as much about justice and vindication as it is about humor and absurdity. Carroll also addresses the criticism that she’s trying to “cash in” on her experiences by writing this book. Her response? She’s a journalist, and it’s her job to document what happened. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to hear her side of the story? As she puts it, “Would you like to hear what it’s like sitting right in front of Donald Trump?” The answer, of course, is a resounding yes
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Critique: A Balancing Act
While Not My Type is undeniably entertaining, it’s not without its flaws. The humor, while brilliant, might not land for everyone. Some readers might find it jarring to laugh at a story that involves such serious allegations. Carroll walks a fine line between comedy and tragedy, and while she mostly succeeds, there are moments where the tone feels a bit uneven. Additionally, the book’s focus on the courtroom antics and larger-than-life characters sometimes overshadows the deeper emotional and societal issues at play. Carroll touches on these issues, but they often take a backseat to the humor and drama. For readers looking for a more in-depth exploration of the cultural and political implications of her case, this might feel like a missed opportunity.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Read with a Twist
Not My Type is a bold, hilarious, and deeply personal account of one woman’s fight for justice against a powerful man. E. Jean Carroll’s wit and resilience shine through on every page, making this a book that’s as entertaining as it is important. While the humor might not be for everyone, it’s hard not to admire Carroll’s ability to find light in the darkness. If you’re looking for a courtroom drama with a twist—or if you just want to hear what it’s like to sit a few feet away from Donald Trump while he hisses and snorts—this book is for you. Just be prepared to laugh, cringe, and maybe even shed a tear. After all, as Carroll proves, sometimes the best way to fight back is with a sharp tongue and a good sense of humor.
This book is highly recommended
Rating: 4.9/5
