Apprentice in Wonderland: How Donald Trump and Mark Burnett Took America Through the Looking Glass by Ramin Setoodeh

Ramin Setoodeh's "Who Punch" dives deep into the untold story of Donald Trump's transformative years on The Apprentice, the reality TV series credited with propelling him to the presidency. Trump himself acknowledges the pivotal role The Apprentice played in his political ascent, a phenomenon Setoodeh explores with insider access and meticulous detail.

Setoodeh, known for his revealing work on The View in "Ladies Who Punch," unveils the behind-the-scenes dynamics orchestrated by Survivor producer Mark Burnett and NBC executive Jeff Zucker to craft Trump's image as New York's ultimate boardroom boss. Drawing on extensive interviews with Trump, his advisors George Ross and Carolyn Kepcher, his son Eric Trump, and key contestants, Setoodeh paints a vivid portrait of the show's impact on popular culture and its lasting imprint on Trump's public persona.

The narrative unfolds with flair and authority, capturing the drama, strategy, and controversies that shaped The Apprentice and its star. Setoodeh delves into the strategic decisions, memorable moments, and the personal stories of contestants who became part of Trump's narrative.

"Who Punch" not only delves into the entertainment spectacle of The Apprentice but also examines its profound influence on American history. Setoodeh navigates the show's evolution from reality TV phenomenon to a political platform, revealing how it bolstered Trump's celebrity and set the stage for his presidential ambitions.

Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Setoodeh offers a comprehensive exploration of Trump's rise from reality TV star to the Oval Office, shedding light on the intersection of media, politics, and the cultural zeitgeist that defined an era.