Marriage has long been fertile ground for comedic material. In Rick and Bubba's Guide to the Almost Nearly Perfect Marriage, Rick Burgess and Bill "Bubba" Bussey dig up plenty to laugh about. The book is sprinkled with stories, lists and even practical marriage advice. Features such as The Book of Blame, The Ten Commandments of Marriage and The Anniversary Gift Chart are certain to get laughs from anyone familiar with marital challenges.

Each chapter covers a different marriage related topic and reminds the reader that marriage requires flexibility and understanding by both partners. The book ends with a sobering testimony of the challenge Rick and his wife Sherry recently faced with the death of their youngest child. In contrast to the earlier humor it still reinforces the book's message that marriage is about two people supporting each other.

The book reads like a series of Rick and Bubba radio show segments, leaving it feeling less like a book and more like two funny guys having a conversation. For anyone not familiar with their nationally syndicated radio show, I would recommend first listening to the audio CD that is included with the book. Hearing the way the interact on the show will make reading the book more enjoyable. While not a regular listener of the show, I enjoyed the book overall.

I have a tendency to not finish humor books when things get busy. I find it hard to justify the time spent on trivial jokes. I am glad I finished this book. The last several chapters are among the best in the book, turning a humorous read into meaningful reflection of what marriage is all about.