Comedy
1. A Confederacy of Dunces
Buy on Amazon"A Confederacy of Dunces" by John Kennedy Toole is a comedic masterpiece set in New Orleans. Ignatius J. Reilly, an eccentric and lazy intellectual, navigates the absurdities of life. Unemployed and living with his mother, Ignatius inadvertently becomes involved in various misadventures involving quirky characters. The novel explores themes of societal absurdity and the clash between individual eccentricity and societal expectations. Toole's posthumously published work won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and is celebrated for its dark humor and satirical portrayal of human folly.
2. Good Omens
Buy on Amazon"Good Omens" by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett is a humorous fantasy novel that follows the unlikely partnership between an angel, Aziraphale, and a demon, Crowley, who have grown accustomed to Earth and are reluctant to see it end. When they discover the Antichrist is misplaced, they join forces to prevent the apocalypse, navigating an array of eccentric characters, divine interventions, and witty commentary on human nature. The authors' collaborative effort creates a delightful blend of satire, wit, and imaginative storytelling, making "Good Omens" a beloved classic that explores the cosmic absurdities with a comedic touch.
3. Lucky Jim
Buy on Amazon"Lucky Jim" by Kingsley Amis is a comedic novel that follows the misadventures of Jim Dixon, a junior lecturer at a provincial English university. Dixon, disenchanted with academia, finds himself entangled in a series of comical and awkward situations, often fueled by his attempts to navigate the social intricacies of university life. The novel is a satirical take on the pretensions of the academic world and a humorous exploration of one man's struggle against the absurdities of his environment. "Lucky Jim" is celebrated for its sharp wit, social commentary, and memorable characters in a satirical portrayal of post-war British society.
4. The Importance of Being Earnest
Buy on Amazon"The Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde is a comedic play that satirizes Victorian society's conventions and hypocrisy. The plot revolves around two young men, Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff, who create fictional personas named Ernest to pursue romantic interests. As mistaken identities and clever wordplay ensue, the play lampoons the superficiality and pretentiousness of the upper class. Wilde uses wit and satire to explore themes of love, social expectations, and the absurdities of societal norms. "The Importance of Being Earnest" is celebrated for its clever dialogue, comedic farce, and enduring relevance as a classic satire.
5. Three Men in a Boat
Buy on Amazon"Three Men in a Boat" by Jerome K. Jerome is a humorous travelogue that follows the misadventures of three friends - George, Harris, and the narrator, J. - as they embark on a boating trip along the Thames River in Victorian England. The novel is a delightful blend of comedy and observational humor, capturing the absurdities and eccentricities of both the characters and the situations they encounter. Filled with comic anecdotes, the book provides a witty commentary on the human condition and the quirks of everyday life, making it a timeless and enjoyable classic in the genre of humorous literature.
6. The Big Over Easy
Buy on Amazon"The Big Over Easy" by Jasper Fforde is a comedic detective novel that reimagines classic fairy tales in a contemporary setting. The story, set in the fictional city of Reading, follows Detective Jack Spratt as he investigates the suspicious death of Humpty Dumpty. Spratt, known for his Nursery Crime Division, navigates a world where nursery rhyme characters are real, and their lives intersect with crime. Fforde combines wit, wordplay, and literary allusions in this satirical mystery, creating a clever and entertaining narrative that playfully deconstructs familiar stories while weaving an original and engaging detective plot.
7. Cold Comfort Farm
Buy on Amazon"Cold Comfort Farm" by Stella Gibbons is a comedic novel that parodies the rural and pastoral literature of the early 20th century. The story follows Flora Poste, a young and sophisticated woman who, after the death of her parents, decides to live with her eccentric relatives on the bleak Cold Comfort Farm. Flora takes it upon herself to organize and improve the lives of her quirky relatives, introducing order and common sense to their chaotic existence. Gibbons' satire cleverly mocks the romanticized portrayal of rural life, creating a humorous and satirical commentary on literature and societal norms of the time.
8. Bridget Jones's Diary
Buy on Amazon"Bridget Jones's Diary" by Helen Fielding is a contemporary comedic novel presented in the form of a personal diary. The story revolves around Bridget Jones, a single woman in her 30s living in London, who navigates the challenges of love, work, and self-improvement. Through Bridget's candid and humorous entries, readers witness her romantic entanglements with the dashing Mark Darcy and the charming Daniel Cleaver. The novel cleverly explores modern relationships, societal expectations, and the pursuit of self-acceptance. Fielding's witty and relatable narrative style has made "Bridget Jones's Diary" a beloved classic in the genre of romantic comedy.
9. Me Talk Pretty One Day
Buy on Amazon"Me Talk Pretty One Day" is a collection of humorous essays by David Sedaris. The book reflects on the author's life experiences, including his childhood in North Carolina, his move to New York City, and later, his attempt to learn French in Paris. Sedaris' witty and self-deprecating humor shines as he navigates cultural differences, family dynamics, and personal quirks. The essays are characterized by their observational humor and keen insights into the absurdities of everyday life. "Me Talk Pretty One Day" is celebrated for its humor, charm, and Sedaris' unique ability to find comedy in the ordinary and the extraordinary aspects of his life.
10. Happy-Go-Lucky
Buy on Amazon"Happy-Go-Lucky" is not a book but a 2008 British film directed by Mike Leigh. The story centers around Poppy, an optimistic and free-spirited schoolteacher in London. The film explores her interactions with various people, including her driving instructor, as she maintains her positive outlook on life despite challenges. Sally Hawkins delivers a memorable performance as Poppy, and the film is known for its exploration of happiness, resilience, and the different ways people cope with life's complexities. "Happy-Go-Lucky" is praised for its engaging characters and the nuanced portrayal of the protagonist's unwavering optimism.
11. Cruel Shoes
Buy on Amazon"Cruel Shoes" is a collection of humorous essays and short stories by Steve Martin. Known for his comedic talent, Martin's work in "Cruel Shoes" explores various absurd and whimsical scenarios. The collection showcases Martin's unique blend of wit, satire, and offbeat humor, covering topics ranging from everyday observations to surrealistic imaginings. The title story, "Cruel Shoes," is a humorous take on the lengths people might go to for fashionable footwear. Overall, the collection captures the author's distinctive comedic voice and showcases his ability to find humor in the ordinary and the bizarre.
12. Born a Crime
Buy on Amazon"Born a Crime" is a memoir by Trevor Noah, the host of "The Daily Show." The book recounts Noah's childhood growing up in South Africa during the apartheid era. The title refers to the fact that Noah, being of mixed race, was born to a black mother and a white father, which was illegal under apartheid law. The memoir humorously and poignantly explores his experiences navigating the complexities of race, identity, and his unconventional upbringing. Through compelling stories and anecdotes, Noah sheds light on the harsh realities of apartheid while infusing the narrative with humor and resilience.
13. The Code of the Woosters
Buy on Amazon"The Code of the Woosters" is a comedic novel by P.G. Wodehouse, featuring his popular characters Bertie Wooster and his valet, Jeeves. The story follows Bertie as he becomes entangled in the humorous and convoluted affairs of his friends, including stolen cow creamers, engagements gone awry, and familial misunderstandings. Jeeves, the ever-resourceful and clever valet, employs his wit and intelligence to navigate the chaos and ensure a satisfactory resolution. Wodehouse's signature style, characterized by witty dialogue, absurd situations, and charming characters, makes "The Code of the Woosters" a delightful and classic example of English humor in literature.
14. The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
Buy on Amazon"The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" by Douglas Adams is a comedic science fiction series that begins with the eponymous novel. The story follows Arthur Dent, an unwitting Earthling, as he is swept off the planet just before its destruction to make way for a hyperspace bypass. Arthur embarks on a spacefaring adventure with Ford Prefect, an alien researcher, Zaphod Beeblebrox, the two-headed ex-president of the Galaxy, and other quirky characters. The novel, infused with absurdity, wit, and philosophical ponderings, satirizes bureaucracy, technology, and the meaning of life. Adams' clever humor and imaginative storytelling have made the series a cult classic.
15. Carry On, Jeeves
Buy on Amazon"Carry On, Jeeves" is a collection of comedic short stories by P.G. Wodehouse, featuring the iconic characters Bertie Wooster and his unflappable valet, Jeeves. Each story revolves around the humorous misadventures of Bertie and his friends, with Jeeves invariably coming to the rescue to resolve various predicaments. Wodehouse's signature style, marked by witty dialogue, intricate plots, and charming characters, shines in this collection. The stories showcase Jeeves' intelligence and resourcefulness as he navigates the social challenges of the English upper class, providing laughter and entertainment in the process. "Carry On, Jeeves" is a delightful continuation of Wodehouse's Jeeves and Wooster series.
16. Sh*t My Dad Says
Buy on Amazon"Sht My Dad Says" is a comedic memoir by Justin Halpern. The book is a collection of humorous and often profane quotes and anecdotes inspired by Halpern's real-life interactions with his outspoken and unconventional father. It originated as a Twitter account where Justin shared his father's candid and often hilarious remarks. The book expands on these anecdotes, offering a humorous and affectionate exploration of the father-son relationship. Through witty and irreverent observations, "Sht My Dad Says" captures the unfiltered wisdom and humor of a father who speaks his mind in the most straightforward and entertaining manner.
17. The Diary of a Nobody
Buy on Amazon"The Diary of a Nobody" is a comedic novel by George Grossmith and his brother Weedon Grossmith. The story is presented in diary form and follows the daily life and misadventures of Charles Pooter, a middle-class clerk in Victorian England. Pooter, with earnestness and obliviousness, recounts his interactions with friends, family, and colleagues, often finding himself in amusing and embarrassing situations. The novel is a satire of the middle-class manners and aspirations of its time, capturing the humor in the ordinary and mundane aspects of Pooter's life. "The Diary of a Nobody" is celebrated for its satire of middle-class aspirations and remains a classic in English humorous literature.
18. The Decline and Fall of Practically Everybody
Buy on Amazon"The Decline and Fall of Practically Everybody" is a humorous book by humorist Will Cuppy. In this work, Cuppy takes a satirical look at the lives and misadventures of historical figures. Through witty and irreverent commentary, Cuppy blends historical facts with comedic anecdotes, providing a lighthearted and entertaining perspective on notable personalities throughout history. The book covers a range of historical figures, from ancient civilizations to more recent times, offering a humorous and sometimes absurd take on the course of human history. Cuppy's unique humor and insightful commentary make "The Decline and Fall of Practically Everybody" a classic in the genre of historical satire.
19. Yes Please
Buy on Amazon"Yes Please" is a memoir by comedian, actress, and writer Amy Poehler. In the book, Poehler reflects on her life, sharing personal anecdotes, insights, and humorous observations. She covers various aspects of her career, including her time on "Saturday Night Live," her experiences in improv comedy, and her role on "Parks and Recreation." Poehler also discusses her approach to life, relationships, and the challenges of balancing career and motherhood. "Yes Please" is praised for its candid and witty writing style, offering readers a blend of humor, wisdom, and a behind-the-scenes look into Poehler's journey in the entertainment industry.
20. Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns)
Buy on Amazon"Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns)" is a comedic memoir by actress and writer Mindy Kaling. In the book, Kaling shares humorous and insightful essays about her life, career, and experiences. She covers topics such as her childhood, her early days in the entertainment industry, and her role on the television series "The Office." Kaling's writing is characterized by its wit, charm, and relatability, offering readers a glimpse into her unique perspective on friendship, romance, and the challenges of navigating the entertainment world. The memoir is well-received for its humor and Kaling's ability to connect with her audience.