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20 Classic Books That Will Make You Laugh

Funny books are known for being a tap on the back on tough days. They can be found in almost all genres and can be enjoyed by all ages. They are also known for being a great way to relieve stress and have a heartfelt laugh that can make any situation slightly better. The funniest books ever written include

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, Catch-22, and A Confederacy of Dunces. However, it should be noted that novels that incorporate humor have been noted for being well-written and as well as easy when writing.

Here are 15 Classic Books that incorporate humor.

1. Catch-22 by Joseph Heller

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The novel is based on the story of Captain John Yossarian, a bombardier in the US Army Air Forces. Readers follow him as he tries to survive the war even though he is surrounded by death and absurdity. In the book, Catch-22 is a situation in which a person is stuck in a situation where they can’t win no matter what they do. The author uses slight jokes here and there to tie together the entire book.

Throughout the novel, Captain John and his soldiers have to find ways to avoid being sent on bombing missions but for some reason, they always end up thwarted by the Catch-22.

2. The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde

It is a book about two young men who create alter egos in order for them to escape the constraints of Victorian society. Jack Worthing, is a wealthy gentleman who lives in the country and Algernon Moncrieff is a wealthy bachelor who lives in London. Their stories become entangled when they meet and decide to swap identities however, their decisions lead to complications and misunderstandings.

3. A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole

It is a novel based on Ignatius J. Reilly who is a 30-year-old, self-styled genius who lives in New Orleans. Ignatius constantly gets in trouble which leads to him getting bailed out by his mother. In the book, we follow Ignatius as he attempts to find a job, a girlfriend, and a purpose in life. His journey in life is comical and interesting to read. 

4. The Diary of a Nobody by George and Weedon Grossmith

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It is the story of Charles Pooter a naive yet self-important man who is always getting into embarrassing situations. He is constantly trying to impress his neighbors and colleagues. The novel follows him through his interesting life filled with petty annoyances. The humor in the book is gentle yet witty and insightful.

5. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

It is a science fiction comedy series that follows the adventures of Arthur Dent whose life changes after the destruction of Earth by aliens known as the Vogons. Arthur’s friend Fors Prefect is an alien researcher who was stranded on Earth for fifteen years. Their conversations are witty and very humorous. The novel is a comedic read that shows the power of friendship and finding a place in the universe.

Even though it is a science fiction book, the author is praised for being able to incorporate funny commentary and conversations between the characters. They can be noted as scenes from a comedic comic.

6. Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris

It is a collection of essays that reflect on the writers’ childhood, family, work, and experiences while living in France. The first essay talks about his struggle while trying to learn French and understand the language. David’s experiences lead to some of the most humorous situations especially when he tries to communicate with his French teacher and his French friends.

Some of the topics explored in the essays include his experiences as a gay man as well as his observations on American culture. Readers have labeled David as a writer with the gift of finding humor in everyday situations.

Read about 15 books that will stir your emotions.

7. The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

The novel follows the story of Don Tillman, a genetics professor who is trying to find a wife. During his search, he created the scientific ‘Wife Project’ which creates a list of the ideal partner. The project is a success when he meets Rosie Jarman, an unpredictable woman who differs from Don’s list. They fall in love and have their happily ever after. The Rosie Project explores themes such as love, relationships, and the importance of being yourself.

8. Good Omens by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman

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It is a novel about Aziraphale, an angel, and Crowley, a demon, who has lived on Earth for centuries. When they are tasked with presenting the arrival of the Antichrist but they are both deeply in love with Earth so they decide to work together and stop the apocalypse.

Good Omens shows the importance of friendship and free will. It mainly explores dark humor and witty dialogue. The conversations between Azirphale and Crowley are bey funny but also well-developed. Even the film adaptation had some conversations that were noted as comical.

9. Where’d You Go, Bernadette? by Maria Semple

The novel is narrated by Bernadette’s teenage daughter, Bee. The story is about Bernadette, a brilliant architect who has become a recluse. Throughout the book, we learn more about Bernadette and the reason why she went into hiding. It explores themes such as family and the importance of following your dreams.

10. The Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

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The series is based on the life of Greg Heffley, a middle school student who writes his life adventures in a diary. The diary is noted as a reflection on the childhood of most if not all adults. In the diary sequence, Greg describes himself as a wimpy kid who has a number of relatable situations that are generally funny. 

11. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

The novel revolves around Liesel Meminger, a girl who is sent to live with her foster parents in another country. During her time there, she becomes a book thief who uses it as an escape. Her story is narrated by Death, the narrator who explains her experiences through his own unique perspective.

12. Start Without Me by Gary Janetti

It is a collection of essays that show readers Gary’s life from his childhood to his career. They are funny, insightful and share a lot about his relationships, family, and friends. Due to the fact that he is known for some of the funniest shows such as Family Guy, his book doesn’t fall short of the funny moments. Start Without Me often challenges the reader’s assumptions by using personal stories as a way of keeping you guessing.

13. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

It is a memoir that tells the story of Trevor’s childhood during the Apartheid era. The book follows his journey as a mixed-race child in a segregated society. It is a funny yet heartwarming book that makes dark themes such as poverty and race easier to talk about. Through the book, readers are able to see his love for comedy grow over the years. Trevor has been praised for being able to use his wit to share his opinions.

14. Nailing It! by Rich Hall

It is a collection of true stories that are based on Rich’s life starting from childhood t his career. Nailing It talks about his relationships and experience with fame. Through the book, readers are able to get an insight into Rich’s thoughts on life especially the state of the world. The book is filled with unexpected humor and personal moments that can change a person’s life.

15. Comedy Comedy Comedy Drama by Bob Odenkirk

He is a famous actor who uses the book as a way of sharing insight into all of the comedy shows he did and how he got them. The book also recounts his life and the journey that led him to the fame he has now. The memoir uses humor to shed light on his personal experiences. It gives behind-the-stories from his time on Saturday Night Live, Mr. Show, Breaking Bad, and Better Call Saul.

16. Three Men In a Boat by Jerome K. Jerome

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It is a story about three friends Jerome, George, and Harris who go on a boating trip. The book is a hilarious take on country life and the importance of friendship. The three friends are constantly getting into trouble including losing their boat when they are attacked by a swan. The novel shows how humor can be found in the most unexpected places which makes it a perfect read.

17. Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbon

It is based on Flora Poste, a woman who goes to live with her cousins on a remote farm. During her time there, her life is filled with humorous adventures as well as satire. Cold Comfort Farm has a number of memorable characters including the main character, the farm’s inhabitant, and her eccentric relatives.

18. I was Told There’d Be Cake by Sloane Crosley

It is a collection of essays that share the relationships of family, friends, and experiences with the fame of Sloane. The book has a number of insights that shed light on celebrity culture and the state of the world. Even though it is a challenging book that makes you have a bunch of emotions that really make it a funny and thoughtful book.

19. The Misadventures of an Awkward Black Girl by Issa Rae

It is a collection of essays that reflect Issa’s life from her childhood to her work. It has a little bit of humor, honest opinions, and insights. Through the book, Issa shared her experiences with race, her relationships, and her thoughts on everything including celebrity culture. Issa has been praised for her ability to use her sharp wit as a way of talking about difficult topics.

Read about the 30 Best Classic Books here.

 20. Let’s Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson

It is a hilarious memoir that details her childhood adventures as well as her relationship with her husband Victor. However, as much as it is comedic, it talks about experiences of depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Jenny is known for her amazing novels that incorporate humor in any given situation.

Click here to read more about classic books.

All in all, these novels are known for their humorous conversations and instances that help bring a little laughter into your day. Comedic novels like the ones listed above are very intriguing because they have a number of witty characters that make the book have its spontaneous yet interesting funny dialogues.