The Greatest American "Humor, Autobiography" Books of All Time

Click to learn how this list is calculated.

This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

Filter by: Genres Dates Countries
Follow on:

Genres

Humor

Humor is a category of books that is characterized by its ability to make readers laugh or feel amused. These books often contain witty dialogue, clever wordplay, and humorous situations that are designed to entertain and delight readers. Humor can be found in a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and graphic novels, and can range from light-hearted and silly to dark and satirical. Whether you're looking for a quick laugh or a more in-depth exploration of the human condition through humor, there is something for everyone in the world of humorous books.

Autobiography

Autobiography is a literary genre that focuses on the life story of the author. It is a first-person account of the author's experiences, thoughts, and emotions, often including significant events and milestones that have shaped their life. Autobiographies can be written by anyone, from famous public figures to ordinary people, and can cover a wide range of topics, including personal growth, career achievements, struggles, and relationships. This genre provides readers with a unique insight into the author's life and perspective, making it a popular and engaging category of books.

Add additional genre filters

Countries

American

Add additional country filters

Date Range

Filter

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download
  1. 1. Life on the Mississippi by Mark Twain

    This book is a semi-autobiographical account of the author's experiences as a steamboat pilot on the Mississippi River before the American Civil War. It provides a detailed and humorous depiction of life and society along the river, including the author's own journey from an eager young apprentice to a seasoned riverboat pilot. The book also includes a travelogue of a journey down the Mississippi River much later in life, offering a look at the dramatic changes brought about by industrialization and the Civil War.

    The 1032nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Advertisements for Myself by Norman Mailer

    This book is a collection of short stories, essays, interviews, and previously unpublished works by a renowned author. It is a self-reflective exploration of his life, work, and philosophy. The author boldly critiques his own work, discusses his political and social views, and provides insight into his personal life. The book, controversial and provocative, serves as a fascinating study of the author's self-perception and creative process.

    The 1269th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris

    This book is a collection of humorous, autobiographical essays that explore the author's experiences and observations in his life. The first part of the book focuses on his upbringing in North Carolina, his Greek heritage, his relationship with his eccentric family, and his early jobs. The second part of the book details his move to Normandy, France, his struggle to learn the French language, and his observations of French culture. The author's self-deprecating humor and sharp wit provide a satirical view of his life's journey.

    The 1378th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Hell's Angels by Hunter S. Thompson

    This book provides an immersive exploration of the infamous motorcycle gang, the Hell's Angels, as seen through the eyes of a journalist who spent a year living and riding with them. The narrative delves into the lifestyle, mindset, and public perception of these notorious figures, offering a raw and unfiltered look into their world. It also examines the wider cultural context of the 1960s, including societal anxieties and the counterculture movement, and how these factors intersect with the Hell's Angels' existence.

    The 1878th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Roughing It by Mark Twain

    This book is a semi-autobiographical travelogue that chronicles the author's journey across the American West to Nevada. It covers his experiences as a miner, newspaper reporter, and lecturer, and includes humorous and insightful observations about the people, places, and culture he encounters. The narrative also provides vivid descriptions of the natural landscape, as well as commentary on the social and political issues of the time.

    The 3172nd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Growing Up by Russell Baker

    "Growing Up" is a memoir that recounts the author's experiences growing up in America during the Great Depression and World War II. The author shares his journey from a poverty-stricken childhood in Virginia to becoming a successful journalist in New York. The narrative is filled with engaging anecdotes about his family, particularly his strong-willed mother, and the struggles they faced during these challenging times. The memoir is an exploration of the author's family history, personal growth, and the socio-political landscape of mid-20th century America.

    The 4888th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Naked by David Sedaris

    "Naked" is a collection of autobiographical essays that explore the author's life from his quirky childhood in North Carolina to his adult experiences in Chicago and New York. The stories are filled with humor, wit, and a keen observation of human nature and family dynamics. The author's unique perspective and storytelling style present a captivating, hilarious, and sometimes poignant look at the absurdities of life.

    The 5432nd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Dress Your Family In Corduroy And Denim by David Sedaris

    This book is a collection of autobiographical essays that delve into the quirks and complexities of family life, as seen through the author's sharp and often humorous lens. The stories explore the bonds of sibling rivalry, the eccentricities of parents, and the awkwardness of childhood, all while navigating themes of identity, belonging, and the search for connection. With a mix of poignancy and wit, the author reflects on his experiences growing up in a dysfunctional family, coming to terms with his sexuality, and finding his place in the world. The essays are both deeply personal and universally relatable, showcasing the author's talent for turning the mundane into the profound.

    The 5804th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. My Life and Hard Times by James Thurber

    This book is a humorous, semi-autobiographical work detailing the author's experiences growing up in Columbus, Ohio. The narrative is filled with eccentric family members, absurd situations, and unusual encounters. The author's vivid imagination, wit, and unique perspective on life transform mundane events into memorable, comedic episodes. From his grandmother's belief that the Civil War is still ongoing to his own fear of electricity, the author's life and hard times are presented as a series of amusing anecdotes that offer a refreshing and entertaining perspective on American life in the early 20th century.

    The 6170th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. I Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron

    This book is a collection of humorous and candid essays reflecting on the struggles and joys of being a woman in the modern world. The author uses wit and honesty to discuss topics such as aging, beauty, marriage, parenting, and feminism. The book is a celebration of womanhood and a contemplation of the inevitable challenges of getting older, offering both laughter and wisdom.

    The 6207th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Priestdaddy: A Memoir by Patricia Lockwood

    This memoir follows the unique life of a woman who grew up in an unusual religious family. After a financial crisis forces her and her husband to move back in with her parents, she reflects on her upbringing in a household where her father, a Catholic priest, held an eccentric and often contradictory sway over the family. The book explores themes of faith, family dynamics, and the struggle to find one's identity amidst the chaos of an unconventional childhood.

    The 6860th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant? by Roz Chast

    "Can't We Talk About Something More Pleasant?" is a graphic memoir by Roz Chast that explores her relationship with her aging parents as they approach the end of their lives. Chast uses her signature humor and illustrations to navigate the difficult topics of illness, death, and family dynamics. The book captures the universal experience of caring for aging parents and the emotional toll it can take on adult children.

    The 7070th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Hyperbole And A Half by Allie Brosh

    "Hyperbole And A Half" is a humorous and deeply personal memoir that combines witty anecdotes and colorful illustrations to explore the author's experiences with mental health, childhood, and adulthood. Through a series of hilarious and relatable stories, the book offers a unique perspective on life's challenges and the power of humor in navigating them.

    The 7080th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Fargo Rock City by Chuck Klosterman

    "Fargo Rock City" is a humorous and nostalgic exploration of the author's love for heavy metal music, especially as it was expressed in the 1980s. The book is a blend of personal memoir, music criticism, and social commentary, as the author reflects on growing up in rural North Dakota and how the music of bands like Guns N' Roses, Mötley Crüe, and Poison provided a vital outlet for his teenage angst and dreams. The author's witty and engaging style provides a fresh perspective on the cultural impact and artistic merit of a genre often dismissed by critics.

    The 8111th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Priestdaddy by Patricia Lockwood

    " Priestdaddy" is a memoir by Patricia Lockwood that recounts her experiences growing up in a highly unusual family. Her father is a Catholic priest who converted from Lutheranism and her mother is a former nun. The book explores the complexities of family dynamics, religion, and sexuality through Lockwood's sharp wit and unique perspective. The author also delves into her own struggles with mental illness and the challenges of reconciling her unconventional upbringing with her adult life. Overall, "Priestdaddy" is a poignant and humorous memoir that offers a fresh take on the coming-of-age genre.

    The 9170th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Yes Please by Amy Poehler

    In this candid and humorous memoir, a celebrated comedian and actress shares personal stories, life lessons, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes from her journey in show business. From her childhood to her time on iconic television shows and her experiences as a mother, she offers insights into the challenges and triumphs of her life with wit and wisdom. The book is a collection of essays, lists, and photographs that together provide an honest look at her struggles with self-doubt, the realities of being a working woman in Hollywood, and the joy she finds in creating and collaborating with friends and colleagues in the industry.

    The 10408th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Bossypants by Tina Fey

    This book is a humorous autobiography that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the author's journey from a nerdy, awkward childhood to becoming a successful comedian and writer on one of television's most iconic shows. Through a series of witty essays, the author shares her thoughts on beauty, feminism, and the entertainment industry, while also recounting hilarious anecdotes from her personal and professional life. Known for its sharp wit and insightful commentary, the book not only entertains but also provides a candid perspective on the challenges and triumphs of a woman navigating the male-dominated world of comedy.

    The 10924th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download