The Greatest American, British "Humor" Books Since 2010

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.

Add additional genre filters

Countries

American

British

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. The Sellout by Paul Beatty

    This satirical novel follows the story of an African-American man living in a small, agrarian town on the outskirts of Los Angeles. After his father's death, he attempts to reinstate slavery and segregation in his town as a means of creating a sense of identity for himself and his community. The novel explores themes of racial identity and equality in America, challenging societal norms and expectations through its provocative narrative.

    The 1187th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. There But For The by Ali Smith

    There But For The is a novel that explores the interconnectedness of people's lives through the story of a man who locks himself in a room of a house he was invited to for dinner, and refuses to come out. The man's actions cause a media frenzy and bring together four individuals who have links to him, each revealing their own stories and perspectives. The book is a commentary on contemporary life, exploring themes of identity, memory, time, and the nature of connection and disconnection in society.

    The 3664th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Deacon King Kong by James McBride

    "Deacon King Kong" by James McBride is a novel set in 1969 Brooklyn, where a drunken Deacon Sportcoat shoots a drug dealer named Deems Clemens in the courtyard of the Cause Houses housing project. The shooting sets off a chain of events that brings together a cast of characters from the neighborhood, including a young drug dealer, a church-going widow, a corrupt cop, and a group of elderly church women. Through their perspectives, McBride explores themes of race, religion, and community in a vibrant and humorous tale.

    The 5507th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. 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 6882nd Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*Ck by Mark Manson

    "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" is a self-help book that challenges conventional wisdom and encourages readers to embrace a more honest and practical approach to life. With a blend of humor and brutal honesty, the author explores the importance of choosing our values wisely, accepting our flaws, and focusing our energy on what truly matters. Through personal anecdotes and thought-provoking insights, the book offers a refreshing perspective on finding happiness and fulfillment in a world that often prioritizes superficial success and constant positivity.

    The 7038th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. 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 7094th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. 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 7104th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Me And Earl And The Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews

    The book is a candid and often humorous tale of an awkward high school senior whose mother forces him to befriend a classmate recently diagnosed with leukemia. As he and his co-filmmaker friend Earl embark on the project of making a film for the sick girl, the protagonist confronts the complexities of friendship, mortality, and the struggle to make a meaningful connection. Through the process, he grapples with his own insecurities and learns about the impact of genuine human relationships in the face of tragedy.

    The 8194th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Arguably: Essays by Christopher Hitchens

    "Arguably: Essays" is a collection of essays written by Christopher Hitchens, covering topics ranging from politics, literature, and religion to popular culture, sports, and travel. Hitchens was known for his sharp wit, critical thinking, and fearless approach to controversial issues, and this book showcases his best writing over the years. The essays are thought-provoking, insightful, and often humorous, making for an engaging read that challenges readers to think deeply about the world around them.

    The 8255th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Leaving the Atocha Station by Ben Lerner

    The novel follows a young American poet on a prestigious fellowship in Madrid, Spain, where he grapples with his work, relationships, and sense of self. He struggles with his own perceptions of authenticity, both in his poetry and his personal life, while navigating the cultural and language barriers of a foreign country. The protagonist's experiences are marked by a constant tension between reality and artifice, as he questions the value and impact of his own art in the face of world events.

    The 8490th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. How To by Randall Munroe

    This book is a unique take on the conventional how-to guide, blending humor with scientific curiosity to explore absurd and impractical ways to accomplish everyday tasks. The author, a former NASA roboticist with a penchant for the whimsical, uses detailed research and complex scientific principles to answer outlandish questions, such as how to move a house with helium balloons or how to throw a pool party on the surface of the moon. Through entertaining and often elaborate explanations, the book encourages readers to look at the world through a different lens, celebrating the joy of discovery and the fun of taking things to their logical yet ridiculous extremes.

    The 8542nd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Hollywood Homicide by Kellye Garrett

    In "Hollywood Homicide," a former actress turned amateur sleuth finds herself embroiled in a murder investigation when her friend, a rising starlet, is found dead. With her dreams of becoming a detective reignited, she navigates the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to uncover the truth, facing off against a cast of eccentric characters and discovering that fame can be deadly.

    The 8662nd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Where’d You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple

    The book centers around an agoraphobic architect named Bernadette Fox, who goes missing prior to a family trip to Antarctica. Her 15-year-old daughter, Bee, compiles email correspondence, official documents, and secret correspondence in an effort to trace her mother's whereabouts. Through this unconventional narrative, the novel explores themes of motherhood, identity, and the pressures of genius, all while offering a satirical take on the tech industry and upper-middle-class America. The story unfolds with a blend of humor and heart, ultimately revealing the complex relationship between Bernadette and her daughter, as well as Bernadette's own troubled past.

    The 9049th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. F*Ck Feelings by Sarah Bennett, Michael Bennett

    This self-help book takes a pragmatic and humorous approach to managing life's inevitable challenges and emotional struggles. It argues against the popular notion that we should always trust our feelings, instead suggesting that we focus on setting realistic goals and accepting our limitations. With a blend of tough love and irreverent wit, the book offers guidance on a variety of topics, from relationships and parenting to work and self-esteem, providing readers with actionable advice on how to deal with life's imperfections and find satisfaction without chasing unattainable ideals of happiness and success.

    The 9103rd 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 9192nd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. All Grown Up by Jami Attenberg

    The novel follows the life of a 39-year-old single, childfree woman living in New York City who is dealing with the societal pressures and expectations of adulthood. Her journey is marked by her struggle to find happiness and fulfillment in her own terms, despite her unconventional lifestyle. The protagonist grapples with her relationships, career, and the looming presence of her family's tragedies, all while trying to understand what it truly means to be "all grown up".

    The 9385th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Red, White & Royal Blue: A Novel by Casey McQuiston

    "Red, White & Royal Blue: A Novel" is a heartwarming and humorous story about the unexpected romance between Alex, the First Son of the United States, and Henry, the Prince of Wales. After a public altercation, they are forced to fake a friendship for the sake of international diplomacy. However, as they spend more time together, their fake friendship turns into a genuine connection, leading them to question their own identities, their responsibilities, and the true meaning of love. This delightful and captivating novel explores themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the power of love to overcome societal expectations.

    The 9454th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Mislaid by Nell Zink

    "Mislaid" is a novel that explores themes of race, gender, and sexuality in 1960s Virginia. The story follows a white woman who, after leaving her husband, assumes a new identity for herself and her daughter as African Americans to avoid being found. The book delves into the complexities of identity and the societal constructs of race and gender, providing a satirical look at the absurdities of these classifications.

    The 9461st Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Dad Is Fat by Jim Gaffigan

    In this humorous and insightful book, the author shares his experiences of fatherhood, navigating the chaos and joys of raising five children in a two-bedroom New York City apartment. With a blend of self-deprecating humor and genuine affection, he explores the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of parenting, from sleep deprivation and holiday traditions to the challenges of feeding picky eaters and the quest for a moment of peace. Through a series of laugh-out-loud essays, the book offers a candid and relatable look at family life, capturing the love, frustration, and hilarity that comes with being a parent.

    The 9526th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. What If? by Randall Munroe

    This book is a fascinating exploration of bizarre and hypothetical questions, blending humor with scientific accuracy to illuminate the complexities of the universe. The author, a former NASA roboticist with a penchant for the absurd, delves into a wide range of speculative scenarios, from the outcomes of a baseball pitched at near-light speed to the possibility of a machine capable of erasing specific memories. Through engaging explanations and stick-figure illustrations, the book makes complex scientific principles accessible and entertaining, encouraging readers to ponder the infinite "what ifs" our world offers.

    The 9603rd Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. 1,000 Years Of Annoying The French by Stephen Clarke

    This book is a humorous and informative exploration of the longstanding rivalry between England and France, delving into a millennium's worth of historical conflicts, cultural misunderstandings, and entertaining anecdotes. The author examines key events and figures that have shaped the relationship between the two nations, from the Norman Conquest to modern-day politics, all while debunking myths and offering witty insights into how these two European neighbors have continued to eye each other with a mix of animosity and fascination. Through its engaging narrative, the book reveals the complexities and idiosyncrasies of Anglo-French history, showcasing how the past thousand years have been marked by both mutual annoyance and grudging admiration.

    The 9647th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Diary Of A Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul by Jeff Kinney

    In this humorous and engaging installment of a popular children's series, the story follows a young boy and his family as they embark on a road trip that is supposed to be fun and memorable. However, the journey quickly turns into a series of misadventures and disasters, including unexpected detours, vehicle mishaps, and bizarre encounters with other travelers. Through a blend of text and comic illustrations, the narrative humorously explores themes of family dynamics, the chaos of travel, and the trials and tribulations of growing up. Despite the challenges, the protagonist navigates through the chaos with a mix of wit, resilience, and a bit of luck, making it a relatable and entertaining read for young readers.

    The 9660th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Thing Explainer by Randall Munroe

    This book takes a unique approach to explaining complex scientific concepts, using only the thousand most common words in the English language. Through detailed diagrams and simple language, it breaks down subjects ranging from cells and the solar system to the workings of modern technology. The author, known for his ability to make science accessible and entertaining, provides readers with a fresh perspective on the world around them, making even the most complicated topics understandable to those without a background in science. This innovative format encourages curiosity and learning, making it a fascinating read for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of how things work.

    The 9678th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. The Good, The Bad, And The Multiplex by Mark Kermode

    In this critical exploration of the modern film industry, the author delves into the decline of proper movie-going experiences, lamenting the rise of multiplex cinemas that prioritize profit over the quality of both films and the viewing experience. With a blend of humor and insight, the book critiques the dominance of blockbuster franchises, the homogenization of international cinema, and the challenges faced by smaller films in a market driven by commercial interests. The author also examines the impact of these trends on audiences and filmmakers alike, calling for a return to the days when cinema was as much about artistry and engagement as it was about entertainment.

    The 9715th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. How To Be A Woman by Caitlin Moran

    The book is a humorous yet insightful memoir and feminist manifesto that combines personal anecdotes with broader socio-political commentary. The author navigates through various stages of womanhood, from adolescence to middle age, tackling subjects such as body image, workplace inequality, love, and motherhood. By sharing her own experiences and challenges, she invites readers to consider the complexities of being a woman in the modern world, advocating for a more inclusive and liberated approach to feminism that encourages women to embrace their identities and fight for equality.

    The 9800th 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