In a clever twist, John Oliver has released a children’s book about Marlon Bundo, a bunny who finds love with another boy bunny named Wesley, effectively overshadowing a similar book by Vice President Mike Pence’s family. Known for his satirical humor on Last Week Tonight, Oliver used a recent episode to critique Pence’s regressive views on the LGBTQ community, particularly his stance on gay conversion therapy. Pence’s opinions are often cloaked in a seemingly reasonable demeanor, making them all the more insidious.
The Pence family had recently published Marlon Bundo’s Day in the Life of the Vice President, featuring their pet bunny. Not one to miss an opportunity, Oliver responded with his own book, A Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo, which tells a heartwarming story of love between two male bunnies. Unlike Pence’s version, Oliver’s book focuses on Marlon and Wesley’s journey as they navigate challenges posed by a character called the Stink Bug, who represents oppressive policies against same-sex marriage.
The Stink Bug, humorously illustrated with a white hairstyle and a red tie, declares that same-sex marriage is not allowed, echoing real-world obstacles faced by the LGBTQ community. However, in a delightful twist, love ultimately prevails as Marlon and Wesley rally their friends to vote out the Stink Bug and celebrate their union.
With its themes of love and acceptance, Oliver’s book not only entertains but also serves a greater purpose. All profits are being donated to The Trevor Project and AIDS United. The Trevor Project provides vital support for LGBTQ youth, emphasizing their worthiness of love and acceptance. AIDS United focuses on combating the AIDS epidemic through advocacy and research funding, making Oliver’s choice of beneficiaries particularly poignant, given Pence’s stance on these issues.
For those interested, the book also has an audio version narrated by Jim Parsons, featuring guest appearances from various celebrities. You can find the book on platforms like Amazon and check out this blog post for more insights.
In summary, John Oliver’s playful yet impactful response to the Pence family’s book not only highlights important social issues but also supports organizations that advocate for LGBTQ rights and health. His approach demonstrates the power of creativity in addressing serious topics while promoting love and equality.