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Best Humor Books

April 2025

The House in the Cerulean Sea

Linus Baker, a by-the-book caseworker, finds his orderly world turned upside down when he’s sent to investigate an orphanage on a remote island. There, he meets six extraordinary children and their enigmatic caretaker, Arthur Parnassus. As Linus uncovers the island’s secrets, he discovers a family unlike any other and a love he never expected. This heartwarming tale of found family and acceptance will leave you misty-eyed and smiling, reminding us all that home is where you make it.

A Man Called Ove

Meet Ove, a curmudgeonly widower whose world is upended when a boisterous young family moves in next door. Behind his cranky exterior lies a story of love, loss, and unexpected friendship. As Ove’s icy heart begins to thaw, he discovers that life is full of surprises, even when you least expect them. Backman’s touching tale reminds us that it’s never too late to start anew and that sometimes, the most unlikely people can change our lives forever.

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine

Eleanor Oliphant leads a simple life. She wears the same clothes to work every day, eats the same meal deal for lunch, and buys the same two bottles of vodka to drink every weekend. Eleanor is fine. Nothing is missing from her carefully timetabled life. Except, sometimes, everything. One simple act of kindness is about to shatter the walls Eleanor has built around herself. Now she must learn how to navigate the world that everyone else seems to take for granted – while searching for the courage to face the dark corners she’s avoided all her life.

The Martian

Stranded on Mars, astronaut Mark Watney faces impossible odds. With dwindling supplies and no way to contact Earth, he must rely on his ingenuity and gallows humor to survive. Weir’s gripping tale blends hard science with human resilience, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. I found myself rooting for Mark’s MacGyver-like solutions and laughing at his snarky log entries. A thrilling adventure that reminds us of the indomitable human spirit.

The Whipping Boy

Jemmy, a young orphan, finds himself thrust into the opulent world of royalty as the whipping boy for the mischievous Prince Brat. Enduring punishments meant for the prince, Jemmy dreams of escape. When the two boys are kidnapped, an unlikely friendship blossoms as they navigate danger and adventure together. Fleischman’s witty prose and vivid characters bring this tale of friendship and identity to life, reminding us that true nobility comes from within. I couldn’t put it down, laughing and gasping with each turn of the page.

Harriet, the Spy

Harriet’s world revolves around her notebook, where she scribbles observations about everyone she encounters. At eleven, she’s determined to become a spy, sneaking around her New York City neighborhood, eavesdropping on friends and strangers alike. But when her classmates discover her brutally honest writings, Harriet’s life turns upside down. Suddenly friendless, she must confront the consequences of her actions and learn valuable lessons about empathy and self-discovery. This timeless coming-of-age story captures the awkwardness and intensity of adolescence with humor and heart.

The Cricket in Times Square

Chester, a musical cricket from Connecticut, finds himself in the bustling heart of New York City. Befriended by a streetwise mouse and a tender-hearted cat, Chester’s extraordinary talent for chirping classical melodies brings joy to the gloomy Times Square subway station. As word of his gift spreads, Chester faces the choice between fame and the simple pleasures of friendship. This heartwarming tale reminds us that sometimes, the most unexpected encounters can lead to the most beautiful harmonies in life.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Greg Heffley’s hilarious middle school misadventures come to life in this laugh-out-loud journal. From dodging bullies to navigating awkward friendships, Greg’s witty observations and doodles capture the chaos of adolescence. I found myself chuckling at his relatable struggles and cringing at his well-intentioned mishaps. Kinney’s simple illustrations perfectly complement Greg’s snarky voice, making this a quick, entertaining read that’ll resonate with kids and adults alike. It’s no wonder this series became a cultural phenomenon!