Prepare to dive into a literary realm where laughter reigns supreme! Our carefully curated list of the best books to improve humor is a testament to the power of words to uplift, entertain, and tickle your funny bone. These literary gems transcend genres, promising an eclectic mix of wit, satire, and pure comedic brilliance.
From the whimsical adventures of The Princess Bride to the poignant musings of The World According to Garp, each book on this list carries a unique brand of humor that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. Whether you seek the escapist charm of a well-crafted tale or the incisive wit of a social commentary, this collection offers something for every palate. Join us on this literary journey, where the pages are filled with laughter, wisdom, and the timeless allure of humor.
| Book | Author | Published | Rate (goodreads) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. The Princess Bride | William Goldman | 2003 by Ballantine Books | 912K + ( 4.27) |
| 2. The World According to Garp | John Irving | 1999 by Ballantine Books | 231K + ( 4.1) |
| 3. Book Lovers | Emily Henry | 2022 by Berkley | 1M + ( 4.13) |
| 4. The Rosie Project | Graeme Simsion | 2013 by Simon & Schuster | 567K + ( 4.01) |
| 5. Antkind | Charlie Kaufman | 2020 by Fourth Estate | 6K + ( 3.71) |
| 6. Save Yourself | Cameron Esposito | 2020 by Grand Central Publishing | 3K + ( 3.94) |
| 7. Love and Other Words | Christina Lauren | 2018 by Gallery Books | 646K + ( 4.25) |
1. The Princess Bride by William Goldman
Discover the best books for improving humor, including timeless classics with witty dialogue and unforgettable characters.
PublisherBallantine Books | Published15-07-2003 |
Page429 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 912K + ( 4.27) | |
- Young Adult
- Fiction
- Classics
- Fantasy
- Adventure
As the author once said, "Every story is a journey into the reader's heart." The Princess Bride is a vivid testament to that. Published in 1973, this timeless tale has captured the imaginations of readers worldwide with its enchanting blend of fantasy, adventure, and side-splitting humor.
The Princess Bride follows the epic journey of Buttercup, the most beautiful woman in the world, and her true love, Westley, the farmhand who must overcome unimaginable obstacles to win her hand. Along the way, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, including a swashbuckling pirate, a cunning villain, and a wise old wizard. With its unforgettable characters, witty dialogue, and thrilling swordplay, The Princess Bride is a literary gem that will leave you laughing, crying, and begging for more. It's a story that reminds us of the power of love, the importance of courage, and the enduring magic of a well-told tale. So, curl up with this beloved classic and embark on a literary adventure that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.
✨ Read more: best books 1970s
2. The World According to Garp by John Irving
Thought-provoking and humorous, this novel explores the complexities of life, love, and family.
PublisherBallantine Books | Published01-04-1999 |
Page610 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 231K + ( 4.1) | |
- Fiction
- Contemporary
- Classics
- Literature
Have you ever wondered what happens when we put our faith in the seemingly impossible? The World According to Garp takes you on a journey to discover the magic of belief. Published in 1978, this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the power of love.
The World According to Garp follows the extraordinary life of T.S. Garp, a man born to a single mother who was a feminist icon. From his unconventional childhood to his tumultuous adulthood, Garp faces unimaginable challenges with unwavering determination and a wry sense of humor. Along the way, he encounters a cast of unforgettable characters, including a transsexual wrestler, a suicidal poet, and a devoted nurse who becomes the love of his life. Through it all, Garp's indomitable spirit shines through, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, laughter and hope can prevail. The World According to Garp is a masterpiece of American literature that will stay with you long after you've finished reading it. It's a story that will make you laugh, cry, and ultimately believe in the resilience of the human spirit.
✨ Read more: best books 2022
3. Book Lovers by Emily Henry
Discover the best books for honing your wit and humor.
PublisherBerkley | Published03-05-2022 |
Page377 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 1M + ( 4.13) | |
- Fiction
- Contemporary
- Audiobook
- Romance
As a child, I was captivated by the fairy tales my grandmother told. Reading Book Lovers brought me back to those dreamy, magical days. Published in 2022, this witty and heartwarming novel has won the hearts of readers worldwide with its charming characters, laugh-out-loud humor, and swoon-worthy romance.
Book Lovers tells the story of Nora Stephens, a literary agent who has always been more comfortable behind the scenes. But when she agrees to a summer trip with her sister in a small town, she finds herself thrown together with Charlie Lastra, a book editor she's had a rivalry with for years. As they navigate unexpected coincidences and undeniable chemistry, Nora and Charlie discover that the stories they've been telling themselves about love and life may not be the whole truth. With its relatable characters, laugh-out-loud dialogue, and a heartwarming story about the power of books and love, Book Lovers is a must-read for anyone who believes in the magic of a good story.
4. The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
Discover the best books to improve humor with this charming novel about a genetics professor's quest to find love.
PublisherSimon & Schuster | Published01-10-2013 |
Page292 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 567K + ( 4.01) | |
- Fiction
- Contemporary
- Audiobook
- Adult
- Humor
Imagine a world where love is a scientific equation, and finding the perfect partner is a matter of logic and data. That's the premise of The Rosie Project, a heartwarming and laugh-out-loud funny novel by Graeme Simsion. Published in 2013, this international bestseller has won the hearts of readers worldwide with its quirky characters, witty dialogue, and thought-provoking exploration of love and relationships.
The Rosie Project follows the journey of Don Tillman, a brilliant genetics professor with Asperger's syndrome. Determined to find a wife, Don creates a detailed questionnaire to screen potential candidates. But his carefully laid plans are thrown into disarray when he meets Rosie Jarman, a barmaid who is everything he didn't know he was looking for. As Don and Rosie embark on an unlikely adventure together, they discover that love is far more complex and unpredictable than any algorithm could ever predict. With its unforgettable characters, laugh-out-loud humor, and heartwarming story, The Rosie Project is a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of love to overcome all obstacles.
5. Antkind by Charlie Kaufman
2020 standout offers a hilarious and insightful exploration of what it means to be human
PublisherFourth Estate | Published06-02-2020 |
Page720 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 6K + ( 3.71) | |
- Fiction
- Contemporary
- Literature
- Literary Fiction
If you loved the mind-bending brilliance of Being John Malkovich and the surreal humor of Adaptation, then you're in for a treat with Antkind, the debut novel from Oscar-winning screenwriter Charlie Kaufman. Published in 2020, this postmodern masterpiece is a literary rollercoaster that will leave you laughing, questioning your sanity, and marveling at the power of imagination.
Antkind follows the misadventures of B. Rosenberger Rosenberg, a neurotic film critic who stumbles upon a lost masterpiece—a three-month-long stop-motion film that could change the world. But before he can share it with humanity, the film is destroyed, leaving B. as the sole witness to its brilliance. Desperate to recreate the film and make his mark on the world, B. embarks on a hilarious and mind-boggling journey through the surreal landscapes of his own psyche. Along the way, he encounters a cast of unforgettable characters, including a talking dog, a sentient sock drawer, and a gender-fluid therapist. With its razor-sharp wit, thought-provoking themes, and unforgettable characters, Antkind is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the absurd, the surreal, and the power of laughter to illuminate the human condition.
6. Save Yourself by Cameron Esposito
Read about the best books to improve humor
PublisherGrand Central Publishing | Published24-03-2020 |
Page240 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 3K + ( 3.94) | |
- Audiobook
- LGBT
- Nonfiction
As a child, I was captivated by the fairy tales my grandmother told. Reading "Save Yourself" by Cameron Esposito (2020, United States) brought me back to those dreamy, magical days. Esposito's memoir is a hilarious and heartwarming exploration of sexuality, gender, and equality, told through the lens of her Catholic upbringing. With her signature wit and charm, she shares stories of coming out, joining the circus, and accepting herself for who she is. "Save Yourself" is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt different or alone. It's a reminder that we are all worthy of love and acceptance, and that we should never give up on ourselves.
"Beyond the rare overtly queer material I could find, I’d latch on to stuff that was just kinda gay if you squinted and thought really hard about," writes Esposito. Her memoir is a celebration of queerness in all its forms, and it's sure to leave you feeling inspired and empowered. Whether you're looking for a laugh, a cry, or a little bit of both, "Save Yourself" is the perfect book for you. It's a must-read for anyone who's interested in improving their humor and expanding their understanding of the world.
7. Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren
Discover the best books to improve humor by immersing yourself in the hilarious yet heartwarming tale of two childhood sweethearts.
PublisherGallery Books | Published10-04-2018 |
Page432 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 646K + ( 4.25) | |
- Fiction
- Contemporary
- Audiobook
This book is a journey full of mysteries and surprises, where each page takes you deeper into unexpected twists and turns. "Love and Other Words" by Christina Lauren (2018, United States) is a captivating romance novel that will leave you breathless. It tells the story of Macy Sorensen and Elliot Petropoulos, two childhood friends who fall in love and then lose each other in a tragic misunderstanding. Years later, they reunite and must confront the past in order to find their way back to each other.
"The story of the heart can never be unwritten," writes Lauren. "Love and Other Words" is a testament to the power of love and the resilience of the human heart. It's a story about second chances, forgiveness, and the importance of never giving up on the ones we love. If you're looking for a book that will make you laugh, cry, and believe in love again, then "Love and Other Words" is the perfect read for you. It's a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good romance novel and wants to experience the power of love and the humor that comes with it.
8. It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey
Discover the best books to improve humor with this heartwarming and laugh-out-loud summer romance.
PublisherAvon | Published19-08-2021 |
Page397 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 610K + ( 3.94) | |
- Fiction
- Contemporary
- Audiobook
- Adult
- Chick Lit
Prepare to be swept away by the hilarious and heartwarming romance novel, "It Happened One Summer" by Tessa Bailey (2021, United States). Winner of the Goodreads Choice Award and She Reads Best of Award, this captivating story will leave you laughing out loud and reaching for the tissues.
Piper Bellinger, a glamorous socialite, finds herself exiled to a small Pacific Northwest beach town after a wild night out lands her in jail. Determined to prove her worth, she takes over the management of her late father's dive bar. But she didn't expect to meet Brendan, a surly, bearded sea captain who thinks she's nothing more than a spoiled city girl. As Piper and Brendan clash and banter, they discover an undeniable attraction simmering beneath the surface. But Piper's past and Brendan's nomadic lifestyle threaten to keep them apart. Will they find a way to bridge their differences and find true love in this unexpected setting? "It Happened One Summer" is a delightful and witty novel that explores the themes of love, forgiveness, and finding oneself. With its relatable characters and laugh-out-loud moments, it's the perfect read for anyone looking for a feel-good romance with a touch of humor.
9. Bossypants by Tina Fey
Discover your funny bone with the best humor-enhancing books like Bossypants.
PublisherReagan Arthur Books | Published05-04-2011 |
Page283 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 1M + ( 3.96) | |
- Audiobook
- Nonfiction
- Memoir
- Biography
- Humor
Prepare to laugh out loud and gain a fresh perspective on life with Tina Fey's witty and insightful memoir, "Bossypants" (2011, United States). Winner of the Grammy Award, Audie Award, and Goodreads Choice Award, this #1 New York Times bestseller is a must-read for fans of humor and anyone looking for a dose of inspiration.
From her childhood dream of becoming a comedian to her rise to stardom on "Saturday Night Live" and "30 Rock," Fey shares her hilarious and heartwarming journey with refreshing honesty. With her signature wit and sharp observations, she tackles topics such as beauty, motherhood, and the challenges of being a woman in comedy. "Bossypants" is not just a collection of funny anecdotes; it's a thought-provoking exploration of the human experience that will resonate with readers of all ages. Whether you're a longtime fan of Tina Fey or simply looking for a good laugh, "Bossypants" is sure to entertain and leave you feeling empowered.
10. Yes Please by Amy Poehler
Amy Poehler's practical humor guide offers daily life applications
PublisherDey St. | Published28-10-2014 |
Page329 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 535K + ( 3.85) | |
- Audiobook
- Nonfiction
- Memoir
- Biography
- Humor
If you're a fan of Tina Fey's "Bossypants," then you'll love Amy Poehler's equally hilarious and insightful memoir, "Yes Please" (2014, United States). Winner of the Grammy Award, Audie Award, and Goodreads Choice Award, this #1 New York Times bestseller is a must-read for anyone looking for a good laugh and a dose of inspiration.
In "Yes Please" Poehler shares her personal stories and life lessons with her trademark wit and charm. From her early days as an improviser in Chicago to her rise to stardom on "Saturday Night Live" and "Parks and Recreation," Poehler offers a behind-the-scenes look at her life and career. She also tackles topics such as motherhood, friendship, and self-acceptance with honesty and humor. "Yes Please" is a book that will make you laugh, think, and feel empowered. It's a must-read for fans of Poehler and anyone looking for a funny and inspiring read.
11. Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? by Mindy Kaling
A 2011 standout for humor lovers.
PublisherCrown Archetype | Published01-11-2011 |
Page222 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 502K + ( 3.86) | |
- Audiobook
- Nonfiction
- Memoir
"I’m the kind of person who would rather get my hopes up really high and watch them get dashed to pieces rather than wisely keep my expectations at bay and hope they are exceeded." - Mindy Kaling
In her hilarious and insightful memoir, "Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?" (2011, United States), Mindy Kaling invites readers into her world of comedy, friendship, and Hollywood. Winner of the Goodreads Choice Award, this #1 New York Times bestseller is a must-read for fans of Kaling's sharp wit and observational humor.
Kaling shares her experiences as a first-generation Indian-American growing up in the Boston suburbs, her struggles to break into the entertainment industry, and her rise to fame as a writer, actress, and producer. With her trademark honesty and self-deprecating humor, she tackles topics such as race, body image, and the challenges of being a woman in Hollywood. "Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?" is a witty and relatable memoir that will make you laugh, think, and see the world through Mindy Kaling's unique perspective.
12. Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris
Best books to boost humor: thought-provoking essays by a witty American humorist
PublisherLittle, Brown and Company | Published01-01-2001 |
Page272 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 705K + ( 4.01) | |
- Nonfiction
- Memoir
- Essays
Set in the vibrant city of Paris, "Me Talk Pretty One Day" (2000, France) is a hilarious and heartwarming collection of essays by David Sedaris. Winner of the Lambda Literary Award, Puddly Award, and Thurber Prize, this #1 New York Times bestseller is a must-read for fans of sharp wit and observational humor.
Sedaris shares his experiences as an American expat living in Paris, navigating the challenges of learning French, dealing with eccentric neighbors, and coming to terms with his own identity. With his trademark self-deprecating humor and keen eye for the absurd, Sedaris skewers everything from the French language to his own family. "Me Talk Pretty One Day" is a laugh-out-loud funny and thought-provoking collection that will leave you seeing the world in a whole new light.
13. Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
Want to improve your sense of humor? Read these top-rated books.
PublisherSimon & Schuster | Published04-09-2004 |
Page453 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 843K + ( 3.99) | |
- Fiction
- Classics
- Literature
If you're a fan of dark humor and biting satire, then you'll love Joseph Heller's "Catch-22" (1961, United States). Finalist for the National Book Award, this #1 New York Times bestseller is a must-read for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and laugh-out-loud funny novel.
Set during World War II, "Catch-22" follows the story of Yossarian, a bombardier who is determined to avoid flying any more missions. But thanks to a bureaucratic rule known as "Catch-22" Yossarian is trapped. If he tries to get out of flying, he'll be declared insane and forced to fly even more missions. But if he keeps flying, he'll eventually be killed. "Catch-22" is a hilarious and heartbreaking indictment of war and bureaucracy, and a must-read for anyone who's ever felt trapped in a no-win situation.
14. The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde
Discover the best books to enhance your wit with the hilarious classic about mistaken identities and witty dialogue.
PublisherPrestwick House | Published01-01-2005 |
Page89 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 378K + ( 4.17) | |
- Fiction
- School
- Classics
Prepare to be entertained by Oscar Wilde's witty and satirical masterpiece, "The Importance of Being Earnest" (1895, United Kingdom). This delightful play is a must-read for fans of classic literature and anyone who enjoys a good laugh.
"The Importance of Being Earnest" follows the hilarious misadventures of two young men, Jack and Algernon, who create alter egos named "Ernest" in order to escape their social obligations. As they juggle their double lives, they find themselves entangled in a web of mistaken identities and romantic entanglements. With its clever dialogue, memorable characters, and biting social commentary, "The Importance of Being Earnest" is a timeless comedy that will leave you in stitches.
15. The Code of the Woosters by P.G. Wodehouse
Discover how to enhance your wit with the best humor-boosting books
PublisherW. W. Norton & Company | Published05-07-2011 |
Page272 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 29K + ( 4.32) | |
- Fiction
- Classics
- Audiobook
- Novels
- Humor
Prepare to be swept away by the hilarious misadventures of Bertie Wooster and his loyal butler, Jeeves, in P.G. Wodehouse's "The Code of the Woosters" (1938, United Kingdom). This classic novel is a must-read for fans of British humor and anyone looking for a laugh-out-loud good time.
In "The Code of the Woosters" Bertie finds himself entangled in a web of deception and intrigue when he agrees to help his Aunt Dahlia steal an 18th-century cow-creamer. Along the way, he encounters an eccentric cast of characters, including a would-be fascist dictator, a damsel in distress, and Bertie's dim-witted friend, Gussie Fink-Nottle. With Jeeves' unflappable demeanor and Bertie's knack for getting into trouble, "The Code of the Woosters" is a non-stop comedy that will leave you in stitches.
16. The Sellout by Paul Beatty
Best books to improve humor include a story about a black man who sells his blackness.
PublisherFarrar, Straus and Giroux | Published01-01-2015 |
Page289 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 71K + ( 3.75) | |
- Fiction
- Contemporary
- Literary Fiction
- Novels
- Race
From the very first pages, "The Sellout" (2015, United States) pulls readers into a whirlwind of laughter and thought-provoking satire. Winner of the Booker Prize, National Book Critics Circle Award, and numerous other accolades, this #1 New York Times bestseller is a must-read for fans of edgy humor and social commentary.
Paul Beatty's "The Sellout" follows the hilarious and outrageous misadventures of Bonbon, a black man living in a "post-racial" America. After his father is killed by the police, Bonbon decides to reintroduce slavery and segregation to his hometown. With the help of his friend Hominy, the last surviving member of the Little Rascals, Bonbon's antics land him in the Supreme Court. "The Sellout" is a biting indictment of race relations in America, and a reminder that the fight for equality is far from over.
17. A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole
Contributor: Walker Percy(Foreword)
For the best books to improve humor, try this Pulitzer Prize winner
PublisherGrove Weidenfeld | Published01-01-1994 |
Page394 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 281K + ( 3.89) | |
- Fiction
- Classics
- Literature
Have you ever met a character quite like Ignatius Reilly? If not, then prepare to be introduced to one of the most unforgettable and hilarious literary creations of all time in Walker Percy's "A Confederacy of Dunces" (1980, United States). Winner of the Pulitzer Prize, PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction, and Los Angeles Times Book Prize, this #1 New York Times bestseller is a must-read for fans of eccentric characters and laugh-out-loud humor.
"A Confederacy of Dunces" follows the misadventures of Ignatius Reilly, a corpulent, slothful, and erudite man living in his mother's house in New Orleans. Ignatius is a self-proclaimed intellectual and social critic who spends his days writing screeds against the modern world. When his mother insists that he get a job, Ignatius embarks on a series of disastrous employment attempts, each one more absurd than the last. From working as a hot dog vendor to running for mayor, Ignatius's mishaps are both hilarious and thought-provoking. "A Confederacy of Dunces" is a celebration of the individual and a reminder that even the most eccentric among us can find their place in the world.
18. The Complete Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Watterson
A standout work from 1987 is among the best books to improve humor
PublisherAndrews McMeel Publishing | Published06-09-2005 |
Page1456 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 41K + ( 4.81) | |
- Fiction
- Classics
- Graphic Novels
Step into the whimsical world of Calvin and Hobbes, an unforgettable comic strip that captures the boundless imagination and astute wit of childhood. Created by the legendary Bill Watterson, this collection brings together every single Calvin and Hobbes cartoon ever syndicated, offering a timeless tribute to the iconic duo that has captivated generations.
The Complete Calvin and Hobbes invites you on an extraordinary journey through the imaginative realm of six-year-old Calvin and his loyal tiger friend Hobbes. As Calvin embarks on countless adventures, from traversing the frozen tundra to soaring through the skies, Hobbes serves as his wise-cracking confidant, offering a unique perspective on life's complexities. With its poignant insights and laugh-out-loud humor, this collection is not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane but a celebration of the enduring power of imagination, creativity, and the unbreakable bond between a boy and his best friend.
19. The Far Side Gallery by Gary Larson
1989's finest humor collection enhances comedic writing and sharpens wit.
PublisherAndrews McMeel Publishing | Published01-01-1984 |
Page192 | LanguageEnglish |
Rate 26K + ( 4.43) | |
- Fiction
- Graphic Novels
- Comics
- Humor
- Comedy
Prepare yourself for a side-splitting journey into the realm of absurdity with "The Far Side Gallery" a collection of Gary Larson's iconic comic strips that will tickle your funny bone like no other. Originally published from 1982 to 1984, these single-panel masterpieces have become legendary for their surreal humor and witty observations on life's quirks.
Step into Larson's delightfully twisted world, where cows engage in philosophical debates, dinosaurs roam modern-day suburbs, and everyday situations take on a hilariously unexpected spin. With his sharp wit and keen eye for the absurd, Larson skewers everything from human foibles to the complexities of the natural world, leaving readers in stitches. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a first-time explorer of Larson's unique brand of humor, "The Far Side Gallery" is a must-read for anyone looking to inject a healthy dose of laughter into their day. So, dive into the pages of this timeless collection and prepare to experience the side-splitting brilliance of Gary Larson's "The Far Side."