Start the year on a high note with stories that are as heartwarming as they are hilarious
The start of a new year often brings resolutions, reflections, and sometimes, a touch of gloom after the festivities are over. But who says January has to be serious? Inject some laughter into your routine with our curated list of the best funny books to brighten your days and lighten your mood. These humor-packed reads are guaranteed to make you laugh out loud while offering a delightful escape.
This list is perfect for a mood booster—be it after a long workday, a cold winter night, or the chaos of starting fresh in January.
Why Read Humorous Fiction?
Humorous fiction is a genre that combines storytelling with comedic elements, often reflecting life’s absurdities, quirks, and joys. It’s perfect for those moments when you need a break from reality or just a hearty laugh. From sharp satire to quirky romances and laugh-out-loud classics, these books deliver diverse comedic styles while providing unforgettable entertainment.
Best Funny Books For Every Kind Of Reader
From timeless classics to contemporary gems, our list spans genres and styles—romantic comedies, satirical tales, and even absurdist humour. Here are our 13 picks for the best funny books to kick off your new year with laughter.
By Sue Townsend
Adrian Mole, a self-proclaimed intellectual, chronicles his life with hilarity and unintentional charm. From his awkward crushes to his attempts at writing poetry, Adrian’s earnest (and often misguided) observations about life, family, and school create a humorous yet poignant coming-of-age tale. Adrian’s diary entries deliver laugh-out-loud moments while offering a satirical take on life’s ordinary absurdities. “I not only wept, I howled and hooted and had to get up and walk around the room and wipe my eyes so that I could go on reading,” said English satirical novelist Tom Sharpe of this book.
Meet Ava, a burnt-out marketing executive, who escapes to a remote yoga retreat to recharge but ends up facing unexpected chaos. Instead of finding serenity, Ava encounters eccentric fellow retreat-goers, hilarious miscommunications, and a journey of self-discovery she didn’t sign up for. Sophie Kinsella’s witty and lighthearted prose makes The Burnout an enjoyable read, blending humour with heartfelt moments. Packed with laughable mishaps and a dose of romance, this book is a perfect reminder to embrace life’s imperfections and find joy in unexpected places.
P.G. Wodehouse’s comedic genius shines in Right Ho, Jeeves, a delightful romp through the lives of the bumbling Bertie Wooster and his clever valet, Jeeves. This installment sees Bertie trying (and failing spectacularly) to fix his friends’ romantic entanglements and familial disputes. Jeeves, ever the unflappable problem-solver, proves that even the most tangled mess can be untied with finesse. Perfectly blending British humour and timeless charm, this classic is a guaranteed mood-lifter.
In this modern and quirky tale, Greta and Valdin are siblings navigating their messy personal lives in Auckland, New Zealand. Greta is recovering from a breakup, while Valdin, a hopeless romantic, is entangled in his own awkward love story. Rebecca K Reilly’s sharp humour and keen observations on family dynamics and modern relationships make this book a standout. The witty banter between the siblings, their eccentric extended family, and the chaos that ensues will keep readers laughing and rooting for them. A heartwarming and hilarious take on love, identity, and sibling bonds.
A reality TV dating show takes a hilariously bizarre turn in this offbeat novel. The contestants, already frazzled by the pressures of the show, find themselves stranded on a mysterious island where things go from awkward to downright absurd. Samantha Allen blends satire, horror, and dark comedy in this unorthodox tale that skewers modern dating culture and reality TV tropes. With sharp dialogue and unexpected twists, Patricia Wants to Cuddle is a must-read for fans of the weird and wonderful.
Yinka, a successful yet single Nigerian woman, is constantly badgered by her family about finding a “huzband.” Determined to appease their expectations, she embarks on a mission to find love, only to discover more about herself along the way. Lizzie Damilola Blackburn delivers a hilarious and heartwarming story about cultural expectations, friendship, and the pressures of modern dating. Yinka’s relatable struggles and charming mishaps make for an engaging read filled with humour and heartfelt moments.
By Jade Chang
When Charles Wang loses his fortune, he gathers his eccentric family for a cross-country road trip to reclaim their ancestral land in China. What follows is a chaotic, hilarious journey filled with family feuds, cultural clashes, and absurd situations. Jade Chang’s satirical humour bring the Wangs’ misadventures to life. It’s a story about family, identity, and resilience, wrapped in a witty and engaging narrative.
Flora Poste, a sophisticated Londoner, moves to a rustic farm inhabited by eccentric relatives after being orphaned. Determined to impose order on their chaotic lives, Flora’s attempts result in comedic situations and uproarious dialogue. From Flora’s unflappable nature to the quirky antics of her relatives, every page brims with charm and humour. This satirical gem is perfect for readers who enjoy witty social commentary with a touch of absurdity.
This iconic satire explores the absurdities of war through the eyes of Captain John Yossarian, a bombardier stationed in World War II. Joseph Heller masterfully captures the paradoxes of military life with biting humour and dark comedy. The term “Catch-22” itself comes from this novel, epitomizing the circular logic and bureaucracy that ensnare its characters. Catch-22 is a timeless classic that balances comedy with thought-provoking commentary on the human condition. Perfect for fans of dark humour and sharp satire.
Set in the 1960s, this charming novel follows Elizabeth Zott, a brilliant chemist who finds herself hosting a cooking show after her scientific career hits a roadblock. But Elizabeth is no ordinary host—she turns her show into a platform for empowering women and challenging societal norms. Bonnie Garmus blends humour and warmth in this witty story about resilience, ambition, and breaking stereotypes. With its clever dialogue and unforgettable characters, this bestseller is a favorite among readers for being both hilarious and inspiring.
By Oscar Wilde
Oscar Wilde’s masterpiece is a sparkling comedy of manners that skewers Victorian society with wit and style. The play follows two friends, Jack and Algernon, who create fictional personas to escape social obligations and woo their love interests. The ensuing mix-ups, misunderstandings, and sharp repartee make for a delightful read. Wilde’s clever commentary on identity, relationships, and societal expectations ensures that The Importance of Being Earnest remains as entertaining today as it was in 1895.
In this charming sequel to The Rosie Project, Don Tillman faces his biggest challenge yet: impending fatherhood. Don’s unique perspective and scientific approach to life lead to a series of comical misunderstandings and heartfelt moments as he prepares for the arrival of his child. Graeme Simsion’s signature humour shines through as Don navigates the complexities of relationships, family, and change. The Rosie Effect is a hilarious and heartwarming exploration of love, growth, and embracing life’s surprises.
By Roddy Doyle
Roddy Doyle delivers a humorous yet gritty coming-of-age tale set against the backdrop of Ireland’s fight for independence. Henry Smart, born into poverty in Dublin, navigates a life filled with adventure, rebellion, and absurdity. With his larger-than-life personality and quick wit, Henry becomes embroiled in Ireland’s revolutionary movements, encountering both the comedic and tragic aspects of his world. The book is equal parts satire and poignant storytelling, perfect for fans of complex, laugh-out-loud narratives.
Ready to Laugh Your Way into the New Year? Start the year on a high note with stories that are as heartwarming as they are hilarious.
