Books to Read When You Want to Laugh Out Loud

Key Takeaways

• Reading funny books is a great way to reduce stress and lift your mood.
• There’s something for everyone: memoirs, graphic novels, short essays, and lighthearted fiction.
• Funny books can be a good fit for solo readers or book club groups.
• Pairing your reads with book-themed apparel adds a fun twist.
• Many funny books are available in audiobook format—often read by the authors themselves.
• Memoirs and comics are a great starting point if you’re unsure what kind of humor you like.
• You can find time for laughter even with a busy schedule using short reads or funny essays.
• Cozy setups help boost the reading experience—snacks, blankets, and soft lighting work wonders.

---

Why Reading Funny Books Is Good for You

Life can be overwhelming. A good laugh, even from a book, can make things feel a little easier. Reading funny books has real mental benefits. Humor reduces stress, helps improve mood, and gives your brain a break from heavy thinking.

According to this article on stress relief, light reading can act like a reset button. You don’t have to “learn” anything. You just enjoy.

Here’s why funny books help:

• They’re easy to get into, even if you’re tired or distracted.
• You often read faster because the tone is light and casual.
• They can make you laugh out loud—which boosts serotonin and relaxes your muscles.

Want to build a relaxing routine? Combine humor reads with calming rituals. See Reading Rituals That Help You Unwind and Focus.

---

Lighthearted Reads to Start With – Books That Always Deliver

Here are some funny books that have a proven track record of making readers laugh:

• “The Rosie Project” by Graeme Simsion – A quirky romance with a lovable, logic-driven main character.
• “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman – It's awkward and charming, full of dry wit.
• “Hyperbole and a Half” by Allie Brosh – Illustrated essays with surprisingly deep emotional turns.
• “Good Omens” by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett – An angel and a demon try to stop the apocalypse. Chaos follows.

Each of these books blends humor with heart, and they’re easy to recommend. If you’re building your own essential library, check out the 10 Books Every Book Lover Should Read at Least Once for more ideas.

---

Pair It with Bookish Merch – Reading Humor in Style

Reading funny books pairs well with comfy clothes and clever merch. Bookish Wardrobe has apparel and gifts that match the vibe. For example:

• T-shirts with puns like “Shh, I’m Booked” or “Plot Twist.”
• Mugs with literary humor—perfect for sipping while reading.
• Book bags with comic-style illustrations or sarcastic quotes.

This adds a visual layer to the experience. You’re not just reading something funny—you’re living in it.

---

Memoirs That Make You Laugh and Cry (In the Best Way)

Memoirs are a great place to start if you want humor with depth. These writers share their lives with a twist of comedy that feels real.

Here are a few great ones:

• “Bossypants” by Tina Fey – Behind-the-scenes moments from Saturday Night Live, told with sharp humor.
• “Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah – Childhood stories from apartheid South Africa. It’s serious, but often hilarious.
• “Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?” by Mindy Kaling – A warm, relatable collection of essays from the The Office writer.

Want more? This Book Riot list of the funniest memoirs is full of gems.

---

Humor in Short Stories and Essays – For Busy Readers

Not everyone has time to read a full novel. That’s where short story collections or essay books come in handy.

Here are a few you can read in quick bursts:

• “Me Talk Pretty One Day” by David Sedaris – Smart, awkward, and always funny.
• “The Book of Delights” by Ross Gay – Not laugh-out-loud comedy, but full of joy.
• “Calypso” by David Sedaris – Another Sedaris hit, with darker, biting humor.

If you’re looking for tips to fit reading into a busy day, check out How to Find Time for Daily Reading in a Busy Life.

---

Graphic Novels and Comic Collections That Bring the Laughs

Visual humor can be incredibly effective. Graphic novels and comics make it even easier to get hooked on a funny read.

Try these:

• “Strange Planet” by Nathan W. Pyle – Aliens observing humans with hilarious misunderstandings.
• “Catana Comics” by Catana Chetwynd – Wholesome, quirky couple moments.
• “Sarah’s Scribbles” by Sarah Andersen – Social anxiety + everyday nonsense = gold.

Want a laugh on the go? The New Yorker’s “Daily Shouts” column features short humor essays you can read online anytime.

---

Group Laughs – Funny Books to Read Aloud in Book Clubs

Funny books can spark fun discussions in a group setting. You can even take turns reading parts out loud—instant laughter.

Top picks for book clubs:

• “Where’d You Go, Bernadette” by Maria Semple – Satirical and sharp, with a creative storytelling format.
• “Good Omens” (again, yes!) – Especially good if your group loves fantasy or British humor.

If you're thinking of starting a club, the Guide to Starting a Book Club with Friends can help.

---

Setting the Mood – How to Create a Cozy, Happy Reading Setup

Where you read matters just as much as what you read. A cozy setup makes funny books even more enjoyable.

Here’s what works:

• Soft lighting (fairy lights or warm bulbs)
• Blanket or weighted throw
• Hot drink of choice
• A playlist of soft lo-fi beats or jazz

More ideas? 5 Ways to Make Your Home Feel Like a Book Haven

---