Best Comedy Books December 2024

A Dirty Job (Grim Reaper, #1)

Charlie Asher is a neurotic, slightly paranoid, but endearingly ordinary guy who owns a secondhand store in San Francisco. Life is pretty normal until the day his wife dies and he discovers he’s been recruited as a Death Merchant, responsible for collecting souls. As Charlie grapples with his new role, he stumbles through a series of bizarre and hilarious adventures, all while trying to protect his infant daughter. Moore’s quirky humor and vivid characters make this a delightful romp through the afterlife.

The Sirens of Titan

In “The Sirens of Titan,” Kurt Vonnegut Jr. crafts a whimsical yet profound tale that dances through time and space. We follow Malachi Constant, the richest man in 22nd-century America, as he embarks on an interplanetary journey orchestrated by the enigmatic Winston Niles Rumfoord. With Vonnegut’s signature wit, the novel explores themes of free will, destiny, and the absurdity of human existence. It’s a cosmic adventure that leaves you pondering life’s grand mysteries long after the final page.

Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch

I found myself chuckling through every page of this delightfully irreverent tale. Pratchett’s wit shines as he reimagines the apocalypse with a bumbling angel and demon duo at the helm. The clever wordplay and absurd situations had me snorting with laughter, yet there’s a surprising depth to the story’s musings on good, evil, and human nature. A wickedly funny read that left me pondering big questions between giggles.

The Craziest Book Ever Written

I stumbled upon this gem at a dusty bookshop and couldn’t put it down. Mr. W’s “The Craziest Book Ever Written” lives up to its title, taking readers on a wild ride through absurd scenarios and mind-bending plot twists. The author’s vivid imagination shines through every page, leaving me both bewildered and entertained. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re in the mood for something truly unique, give this bizarre masterpiece a shot. Just don’t expect to make sense of it all!

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas

In “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,” Hunter S. Thompson takes readers on a wild, surreal journey through the heart of the American Dream. With his trusty attorney, Dr. Gonzo, by his side, Thompson embarks on a drug-fueled road trip to Las Vegas, ostensibly to cover a motorcycle race. What unfolds is a chaotic, darkly comedic exploration of excess and disillusionment. Thompson’s vivid prose and sharp wit make this a compelling, unforgettable ride.

Born Standing Up

In this candid memoir, Steve Martin bares his soul, recounting his journey from a shy kid performing magic tricks to becoming one of America’s most beloved comedians. With wit and vulnerability, he reflects on his early days at Disneyland, his groundbreaking stand-up career, and the toll of fame. Martin’s prose is as sharp as his comedic timing, offering readers a rare glimpse into the mind of a true entertainer. A poignant, funny, and deeply human story of self-discovery and artistic evolution.

The Importance of Being Earnest

Wilde’s witty masterpiece sparkles with delightful absurdity. Two bachelors, Jack and Algernon, create elaborate deceptions to woo the women they love. Chaos ensues as their fabrications unravel, revealing the hypocrisy of Victorian society. With its razor-sharp dialogue and unforgettable characters like Lady Bracknell, this play still feels fresh and relevant. I found myself chuckling at Wilde’s clever wordplay and biting social commentary. A timeless comedy that never fails to entertain.

Born Standing Up

The Canterbury Tales

Chaucer’s masterpiece weaves a tapestry of medieval life through the voices of pilgrims on their way to Canterbury. Each tale, from the bawdy to the pious, offers a window into 14th-century England. The vivid characters—the Wife of Bath, the Knight, the Miller—come alive through Chaucer’s wit and keen observations. It’s a journey that still resonates, making us laugh, reflect, and marvel at the timeless nature of human foibles and aspirations.

The Last Black Unicorn

Growing up in one of the poorest neighborhoods in South Central Los Angeles, Tiffany Haddish learned to survive by making people laugh. If only she could have laughed off some of life’s biggest challenges – like being the school mascot as a teen, or spending two years as a foster child. Now, in her hilarious yet heartfelt memoir, Haddish shares “unicorn-rare” tales of her journey from hardship to Hollywood stardom, proving that, with resilience and humor, anything is possible.