Looking for a good laugh? Dive into the world of humor with these 20 best books about comedy. Whether you’re a fan of stand-up, improv, or satire, there’s a book on comedy for everyone. From memoirs of legendary comedians to insightful analyses of the art of laughter, these comedy books are sure to tickle your funny bone and leave you in stitches. Get ready to explore the hilarious side of literature and discover the wit and wisdom of the funniest minds in the business.
Born a Crime by Trevor Noah is a captivating memoir that chronicles the comedian’s upbringing in South Africa during apartheid. This compelling book on comedy is not just about laughs; it’s a poignant and often heart-wrenching account of Noah’s experiences growing up in a mixed-race family at a time when such unions were illegal. Through his trademark wit and humor, Noah brings to life the challenges and absurdities of his childhood, while also shedding light on the harsh realities of racism and poverty. His storytelling is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making this comedy book a must-read for anyone interested in a powerful and insightful narrative.
Bossypants by Tina Fey is a hilarious and insightful memoir that provides a glimpse into the life of the talented comedian, writer, and actress. In this witty and candid book on comedy, Fey shares stories from her childhood, her rise to fame, and her experiences in the male-dominated world of comedy. With her trademark humor and sharp wit, she offers a unique perspective on success, motherhood, and the challenges of being a woman in the entertainment industry. This comedy book is filled with laugh-out-loud moments and thought-provoking reflections, making it a must-read for fans of Fey’s work and anyone looking for an entertaining and inspiring read.
Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?” by Mindy Kaling is a hilarious and insightful book on comedy that offers a unique and refreshing perspective on life, love, and the pursuit of laughter. Through a series of witty essays, Kaling shares her personal experiences and musings on topics ranging from friendships and relationships to the absurdities of Hollywood. With her signature blend of self-deprecating humor and sharp wit, Kaling takes readers on a delightful journey through the ups and downs of adulthood, all while offering plenty of laugh-out-loud moments along the way. This comedy book is a must-read for anyone looking for a good chuckle and a dose of relatable humor.
Yes Please by Amy Poehler is a hilarious and heartfelt memoir that offers an inside look at the life of the beloved comedian, actress, and writer. In this candid and witty book on comedy, Amy shares personal stories, anecdotes, and reflections on her career in the entertainment industry. From her time on Saturday Night Live to her role on Parks and Recreation, Amy Poehler takes readers on a journey through her experiences in the world of comedy. With a perfect blend of humor and sincerity, this comedy book is a refreshing and inspiring read for anyone looking to gain insight into the world of comedy. Yes Please is a must-read for fans of Amy Poehler and anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes of the entertainment industry.
The Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish is a hilarious and unapologetically honest memoir that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the life of the breakout comedy star. Haddish shares her unique experiences growing up in foster care, her tumultuous relationships, and her rise to fame in the entertainment industry. With her signature wit and raw storytelling, Haddish delivers a powerful and inspiring narrative that explores the highs and lows of her life with a refreshing blend of humor and heart. This book on comedy is a must-read for anyone looking for an authentic and uproariously funny account of one woman’s journey to success. Haddish’s candid and fearless approach to storytelling makes The Last Black Unicorn a standout comedy book that will leave readers laughing, crying, and ultimately feeling uplifted.
I Can’t Make This Up: Life Lessons by Kevin Hart is a hilarious and inspiring autobiography that delves into the life of the renowned comedian. In this uproarious comedy book, Hart shares his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the biggest names in entertainment. With a perfect blend of humor and heart, he recounts his triumphs and tribulations, offering invaluable life lessons along the way. Through his witty anecdotes and candid reflections, Hart imparts wisdom on perseverance, resilience, and the importance of staying true to oneself. This book on comedy is not just about laughs, but also about finding strength in the face of adversity. Whether you’re a fan of Kevin Hart or simply looking for an uplifting read, I Can’t Make This Up is a must-read that will leave you in stitches while leaving a lasting impact.
The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo by Amy Schumer is a hilarious and candid memoir that delves into the life of the popular comedian. Schumer’s book on comedy is filled with witty anecdotes, personal essays, and heartfelt reflections on her life and career. This comedy book offers a raw and unapologetic look at Schumer’s experiences, from her childhood to her rise to fame in the entertainment industry. With her signature humor and self-deprecating charm, Schumer shares stories about relationships, body image, and the challenges of being a woman in the spotlight. The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo is a book about comedy that will have readers laughing out loud while also gaining insight into Schumer’s journey and the experiences that have shaped her into the beloved comedian she is today.
Why Not Me? is a humorous and insightful book on comedy written by Mindy Kaling. In this candid and witty memoir, Kaling shares her personal experiences and reflections on life, love, and the entertainment industry. With her trademark humor and relatable storytelling, she offers a behind-the-scenes look at the realities of being a woman in comedy, and the challenges and triumphs that come with it. Through a series of essays, Kaling delves into topics such as confidence, body image, and relationships, while also providing a glimpse into her life as a writer, actress, and producer. Whether you’re a fan of Kaling’s work or simply love a good laugh, this comedy book is sure to entertain and inspire with its refreshing and unapologetic take on life and success.
Modern Romance by Aziz Ansari is a humorous exploration of the complexities of dating and relationships in the digital age. Ansari, known for his witty stand-up comedy and acting, co-writes this eye-opening book with sociologist Eric Klinenberg. The book delves into the evolution of romance and how technology has changed the way we connect and interact with potential partners. Ansari uses his signature humor to discuss topics such as online dating, texting etiquette, and the impact of social media on modern relationships. This comedy book offers a unique blend of insightful social commentary and laugh-out-loud humor, making it a must-read for anyone navigating the modern dating scene. Whether you’re a fan of Ansari’s comedy or simply curious about the intersection of love and technology, Modern Romance is an entertaining and enlightening read.
Sick in the Head: Conversations About Life and Comedy
by Judd Apatow
Sick in the Head is a fascinating collection of interviews conducted by Judd Apatow, a well-known comedy writer, director, and producer. In this book, Apatow dives into the minds of some of the greatest comedians and comedy writers of our time, including Mel Brooks, Jerry Seinfeld, and Lena Dunham. Through candid conversations, Apatow explores the inner workings of comedy, delving into the creative process, the challenges of the industry, and the personal experiences that have shaped these comedic geniuses. This book offers a unique and insightful look into the world of humor, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the art of making people laugh. With its blend of wit, wisdom, and humor, Sick in the Head is a captivating and enlightening book about comedy.
The Bedwetter: Stories of Courage, Redemption, and Pee
by Sarah Silverman
The Bedwetter: Stories of Courage, Redemption, and Pee by Sarah Silverman is a hilarious and candid memoir that delves into the life of the famous comedian. In this uproarious book about comedy, Silverman shares personal anecdotes, childhood memories, and pivotal moments in her career, all while maintaining her signature wit and charm. With stories that are both heartwarming and side-splitting, she invites readers into her world, tackling taboo subjects with her trademark irreverence. From her struggles with bedwetting to her rise to comedic stardom, Silverman’s memoir is a testament to resilience, humor, and the power of laughter. This comedy book offers a glimpse into the life of a fearless and unapologetic comedian, making it a must-read for fans of Silverman and anyone in need of a good laugh.
Paddle Your Own Canoe: One Man’s Fundamentals for Delicious Living
by Nick Offerman
Paddle Your Own Canoe: One Man’s Fundamentals for Delicious Living by Nick Offerman is a humorous and insightful book on comedy. Offerman, best known for his role as Ron Swanson on the TV show Parks and Recreation, shares his unique perspective on life, love, and the pursuit of happiness. Through a series of personal anecdotes and witty observations, he offers practical advice on everything from woodworking to romance, all while maintaining his signature deadpan humor. With a blend of wisdom and wit, this comedy book is sure to leave readers entertained and inspired to live their best, most delicious lives.
Dad Is Fat by Jim Gaffigan is a hilarious and heartwarming book on fatherhood and family life. In this side-splitting comedy book, Gaffigan shares his experiences as a father of five young children, offering witty and relatable observations on the chaos and joy of parenting. With his signature self-deprecating humor and sharp wit, Gaffigan’s stories will have readers laughing out loud as he navigates the challenges of raising a large family in a small New York City apartment. From sleepless nights to picky eaters, Gaffigan’s humorous take on the ups and downs of fatherhood will resonate with parents and non-parents alike. Dad Is Fat is a must-read for anyone looking for a lighthearted and entertaining book about the joys and struggles of family life.
I’m Just a Person by Tig Notaro is a compelling memoir that takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster through the life of the beloved comedian. Notaro shares her struggles with loss, illness, and personal tragedy with a raw and honest voice that will resonate with anyone who has faced adversity. This book on comedy is not just about laughter, but also about resilience, hope, and the power of finding humor in the darkest moments. Notaro’s storytelling is both poignant and hilarious, making it a must-read for fans of comedy and those who appreciate a good laugh. With her wit and warmth, Notaro proves that even in the face of hardship, there is always room for laughter and joy.
The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl by Issa Rae is a hilarious and relatable book about the challenges of being an outsider in a world that often expects us to fit into narrow stereotypes. This comedy book follows the author’s journey as she navigates through awkward encounters, embarrassing moments, and the everyday struggles of being true to herself. With wit and charm, Issa Rae shares her unique perspective on life, love, and the pursuit of happiness, making this book on comedy a must-read for anyone who has ever felt like they didn’t quite belong. Whether you’re a fan of awkward humor, a lover of coming-of-age stories, or simply enjoy a good laugh, this book about comedy is sure to leave you in stitches.
The Bassoon King: My Life in Art, Faith, and Idiocy
by Rainn Wilson
The Bassoon King: My Life in Art, Faith, and Idiocy is Rainn Wilson’s hilarious and heartfelt memoir that takes readers on a journey through his life in the entertainment industry, his exploration of spirituality, and his experiences with the absurdity of the world. In this insightful and entertaining comedy book, Wilson shares his unique perspective on the ups and downs of pursuing a career in acting, the challenges of finding success in Hollywood, and the importance of staying true to oneself. With wit, wisdom, and a healthy dose of self-deprecation, The Bassoon King offers a refreshing look at the intersections of art, faith, and the comedy of everyday life. Wilson’s candid storytelling and charming humor make this memoir a must-read for fans of books on comedy and anyone looking for a good laugh.
You Can’t Touch My Hair: And Other Things I Still Have to Explain
by Phoebe Robinson
You Can’t Touch My Hair: And Other Things I Still Have to Explain by Phoebe Robinson is a witty and insightful book on comedy that explores race, gender, and pop culture. Robinson, a stand-up comedian and co-creator of the hit podcast 2 Dope Queens, uses her sharp humor and personal experiences to tackle important issues with grace and hilarity. In this comedy book, Robinson delves into topics such as feminism, dating, and the challenges of being a black woman in the entertainment industry. Her unique perspective and fearless approach to discussing difficult subjects make this book about comedy a must-read for anyone looking for a fresh take on modern society. With a mix of personal anecdotes and social commentary, Robinson’s book is a thought-provoking and laugh-out-loud funny exploration of the complexities of everyday life.
Whitney Cummings’ “I’m Fine… And Other Lies” is a candid and witty memoir that takes readers on a journey through the highs and lows of the comedian’s life. This book on comedy is filled with hilarious anecdotes, raw reflections, and insightful commentary on everything from relationships to mental health. Cummings’ sharp wit and self-deprecating humor make this book about comedy a delightful and relatable read for anyone who enjoys a good laugh. With a perfect blend of humor and heart, “I’m Fine… And Other Lies” is a must-read for fans of Cummings and anyone looking for a comedy book that’s as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.
The Awkward Thoughts of W. Kamau Bell: Tales of a 6′ 4, African American, Heterosexual, Cisgender, Left-Leaning, Asthmatic, Black and Proud Blerd, Mama’s Boy, Dad, and Stand-Up Comedian
by W. Kamau Bell
The Awkward Thoughts of W. Kamau Bell is a hilarious and thought-provoking book on comedy that delves into the life and experiences of the 6′ 4, African American, heterosexual, cisgender, left-leaning, asthmatic, black and proud blerd, mama’s boy, dad, and stand-up comedian, W. Kamau Bell. In this comedy book, Bell shares personal anecdotes, social commentary, and insights on race, politics, and pop culture with his signature wit and humor. Through his unique perspective, Bell navigates through the awkward and uncomfortable moments in life, offering both laughter and introspection. Whether he’s discussing his experiences as a black man in America or his love for comic books, Bell’s storytelling is engaging and relatable. The Awkward Thoughts of W. Kamau Bell is a must-read for anyone looking for a comedy book that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The Princess Diarist by Carrie Fisher is a candid and humorous memoir about the author’s experience filming the iconic Star Wars trilogy. Fisher delves into her personal diaries from that time, offering readers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes drama and her whirlwind romance with co-star Harrison Ford. With her signature wit and self-deprecating humor, Fisher reflects on the impact of sudden fame and the challenges of navigating the entertainment industry. This comedic book provides an intimate and entertaining look at the life of a young actress thrust into the spotlight, and offers a unique perspective on the beloved sci-fi franchise. Fans of Fisher’s sharp humor and unapologetic storytelling will appreciate this candid and funny glimpse into her early years in Hollywood.
Conclusion
Overall, these 20 best books about Comedy offer a comprehensive look at the history, theory, and practice of comedy. Whether you’re a comedian looking to hone your craft or simply a fan of comedy looking to deepen your understanding, these books provide valuable insights and entertaining reads. From classic texts to modern analyses, there’s something for everyone on this list. Dive into the world of comedy and discover the secrets behind making people laugh with these essential reads.
Which Comedy book is best?
The best book on Comedy can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Comedy?
For those looking to learn about Comedy, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Comedy are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Comedy books of all time?
Choosing the best Comedy books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
