When “Banned Books” Became Bestsellers
A good laugh is universal, and a sharp comic voice can turn even the most ordinary plot into a tiny masterpiece. That’s why funny books deserve a lot more credit. Our recommendation of funny books to read are the ultimate mood-lifters, especially when you are looking for something light, clever, and joyfully silly. Great writers have always dabbled in humour because it’s one of the hardest genres to get right.
Whether you like dark humour, romantic comedy, absurdist chaos, or coming-of-age laughs, these picks are meant for readers who want to smile, snort, chuckle, or laugh out loud.
Let’s dive in.
Why Humorous Books Make Excellent Reads
Funny books give you a break from your brain. Life throws enough drama your way; you don’t need more of it from your bookshelf. A funny novel can turn a bad day around, make you feel lighter, and even give you a clever insight or two wrapped in ridiculous antics.
And if you think they’re “frivolous” reads, consider this: the Booker Prize library features some of the funniest novels ever written. It is an endorsement that humour deserves more literary respect.
When done well, humour can make a point better than anything else. It disarms you. It entertains you. It opens you up.
5 Ridiculously Real Reasons to Read a Funny Book
- Because laughter burns calories, and reading is basically a gym workout for introverts.
- Because plot twists hit harder when you’re not crying from stress but from laughter.
- Because your group chat jokes aren’t cutting it anymore and you need professional humour.
- Because you deserve to escape into a world where the worst problem is an alien with an attitude.
- Because life is short, and your TBR doesn’t have to be depressing.
Funny Books To Read Right Now!
This sci-fi comedy begins with the world ending. Literally! Arthur Dent, an ordinary man in a dressing gown, is swept off Earth just seconds before it’s demolished to make way for an intergalactic bypass. He soon discovers the universe is even more chaotic than he feared, thanks to alien bureaucrats, two-headed presidents, Marvin the depressed robot, and a guidebook with questionable advice. A wildly imaginative and absurd cosmic adventure, this is funny fiction at its finest, perfect for anyone who wants humour mixed with existential nonsense.
By Neil Gaiman & Terry Pratchett
An angel (Aziraphale) and a demon (Crowley) accidentally grow fond of Earth and decide they’d rather postpone the apocalypse. The only problem? The Antichrist has gone missing, and a prophecy book insists the end is coming. Chaos follows as witches, witch-hunters, kids, and celestial forces collide in a plot that’s equal parts absurd, witty, and oddly heart-warming. This modern comedic classic delivers heavenly humour, devilish sarcasm, and a partnership you will adore. It has also been adapted into a TV series.
Bertie Wooster’s life is a series of self-inflicted disasters, and only one man can save him: the eternally composed Jeeves, his butler. This collection of interconnected stories follows Bertie as he stumbles through engagements, misunderstandings, and friendships gone wrong, while Jeeves fixes everything with quiet brilliance. Wodehouse’s trademark British humour—light, charming, and razor-sharp—makes this a perfect comfort read. The comedic chemistry between master and valet remains unmatched. One of the best funny books to read ever!
From the author of The Hundred-Year-Old Man… comes another delightfully absurd adventure. This novel follows Johan, a man convinced the world will end soon, and the stranger he teams up with: a down-on-his-luck rock musician. Together, they stumble through mishaps, bizarre prophecies, and comic accidents as they try to “save humanity” despite not being the most qualified. It’s quirky, fast-paced, and filled with satirical punches about fate, purpose, and the strange plans life throws your way.
By Oscar Wilde
Wilde’s iconic play is a masterclass in wit. It follows Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff, two men who invent alter egos – both named “Ernest” – to escape social obligations. Their double lives quickly spiral into hilarious chaos involving mistaken identities, romantic confusion, and sharp commentary on Victorian society. Every line crackles with humour. If you want classic funny fiction that still feels fresh, this is the one.
By Paul Murray
This Booker-shortlisted novel is darkly funny, emotional, and razor-sharp. It follows the Barnes family – Dickie, Imelda, and their children, each dealing with disasters in their own way. While not traditionally comedic, its humour emerges through painfully recognisable family moments, absurd decisions, and the way life unravels with both tragedy and irony. Murray’s writing balances wit and heartbreak with impressive skill. Perfect if you like humour that hides inside chaos.
Set during World War II, this satirical classic follows Captain John Yossarian, who is desperate to escape combat duty. But the military bureaucracy traps him in the famous “Catch-22”: he can only stop flying if he’s insane, yet asking to stop proves he’s sane. It’s chaotic, sharp, and bitingly funny, revealing the absurdity of war through circular logic and unforgettable characters. A must-read for fans of dark humour.
By Sue Townsend
Adrian Mole is dramatic, earnest, and convinced he is a misunderstood intellectual. His diary entries chronicle the everyday trials of a teenager: crushes, acne, parents, school, and the embarrassment of simply being 13¾. Townsend nails the voice of a teen who takes himself far too seriously, making the book hysterically relatable. This is comfort reading at its funniest, capturing young adulthood with warmth and comic flair.
A good laugh can turn an ordinary day into a great one, and these funny books promise exactly that. Dip into any of them and watch your mood lift, page by page.
