10+ Best Funny Books for 14-16-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Looking for a way to keep your teen entertained and giggling through the pages? You’ve come to the right spot! Our roundup of funny books for 14-16-year-olds is packed with stories that are sure to bring a smile to your young reader's face. Whether they’re into quirky characters or laugh-out-loud scenarios, there’s something here for every teen. Keep reading to discover our favorite picks that will not only entertain but also brighten up your teen's reading list!

Fun Funny Books for 14-16-Year-Olds

• Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fiction, Graphic Novel
  • Synopsis: Follow the adventures and misadventures of middle-schooler Greg Heffley as he navigates the challenges of school, family, and friends, all while trying to become popular.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s hilariously relatable and presents everyday situations in a light-hearted, comical way that resonates with young teens.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a good laugh and graphic novel fans.

• The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Comedy
  • Synopsis: Arthur Dent is swept off Earth by his friend Ford Prefect just seconds before the planet is demolished to make way for a galactic freeway. What follows is an absurd and humorous journey across the universe.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its clever blend of science fiction and dry British humor makes complex ideas and the vastness of space more accessible and entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Science fiction enthusiasts and anyone who loves quirky humor.

• The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie, illustrated by Ellen Forney
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Humor
  • Synopsis: This semi-autobiographical novel follows Junior, a budding cartoonist growing up on the Spokane Indian Reservation. Deciding to take his future into his own hands, Junior leaves his troubled school on the rez to attend an all-white farm town high school where the only other Indian is the school mascot.
  • Why we recommend this book: It tackles serious themes like racism and poverty with humor and grace, encouraging empathy and understanding.
  • Perfect for: Teens looking to understand diverse perspectives while enjoying a mix of humor and real-life challenges.

• Me and Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Comedy, Drama
  • Synopsis: Greg Gaines, an awkward high school senior, spends most of his time making parodies of classic movies with his "co-worker" Earl. His life takes a turn when his mother forces him to befriend a classmate with leukemia.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a funny yet poignant story that captures the awkwardness of high school life and the impact of unexpected friendships.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate humor mixed with heartfelt moments.

• An Abundance of Katherines by John Green
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Romance, Comedy
  • Synopsis: After being dumped by nineteen girls named Katherine, child prodigy Colin Singleton embarks on a road trip with his best friend to prove a mathematical theorem about predicting the future of any relationship.
  • Why we recommend this book: It uniquely combines mathematics and romantic failure into a journey of self-discovery and complex relationships, all wrapped up with John Green's signature witty humor.
  • Perfect for: Math enthusiasts and anyone who has ever wondered about the formula for love.

Educational Funny Books for 14-16-Year-Olds

• How to Be a Math Genius by Mike Goldsmith
  • Genre(s): Educational, Humor, Non-Fiction
  • Synopsis: This engaging book explores the world of mathematics through fun facts, puzzles, and real-life applications.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Mathematical concepts, problem-solving skills, logical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes math fun and accessible, presenting complex ideas in a humorous and engaging way.
  • Perfect for: Teens who enjoy math or want to see it in a new, more entertaining light.

• The Reptile Room by Lemony Snicket (Illustrated by Brett Helquist)
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Humor, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Book two in "A Series of Unfortunate Events," this novel follows the Baudelaire orphans as they are sent to live with a herpetologist uncle who has a house full of snakes.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Vocabulary expansion, understanding narrative structure, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines a thrilling mystery with Snicket's unique brand of dark humor.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love a good mystery with a side of sarcasm.

• Small Steps: The Year I Got Polio by Peg Kehret
  • Genre(s): Autobiography, Educational, Humor
  • Synopsis: The true story of the author's experience with polio, detailing her struggles and recovery process with both honesty and humor.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, empathy, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a personal and humorous perspective on a serious historical subject, encouraging resilience and understanding.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in autobiographies or historical medical accounts.

• Letters from Camp by Kate Klise (Illustrated by M. Sarah Klise)
  • Genre(s): Humor, Mystery
  • Synopsis: In this epistolary novel, siblings are sent to a very unusual summer camp, leading to a series of funny and mysterious events communicated through letters.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, creative writing, deductive reasoning
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a laugh-out-loud funny book that also sharpens deductive skills through its unique storytelling format.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy puzzles, mysteries, and writing.

• Cosmic by Frank Cottrell Boyce
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: A tall 12-year-old boy tricks his way into becoming an astronaut and finds himself on a space adventure, leading to comical yet insightful experiences.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of space science, ethical decision-making, self-identity
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with heartwarming lessons about growing up and taking responsibility.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring astronauts and young readers who dream big.

Challenging Funny Books for 14-16-Year-Olds

• Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
  • Genre(s): Satire, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set during World War II, this novel follows Captain John Yossarian, a U.S. Army Air Forces B-25 bombardier, and a host of other eccentric characters stationed on the fictional Mediterranean island of Pianosa. The book explores the absurdity of war and the power of bureaucracy through sharp wit and dark humor.
  • Why this book is challenging: The non-linear narrative, complex characters, and satirical portrayal of profound themes like the futility of war make it a demanding read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a masterclass in satire that challenges readers to think critically about authority, war, and the often illogical nature of bureaucracies.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in history, satire, and critical thinking about societal norms.

• Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Comedy
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of an angel and a demon who team up to prevent the apocalypse, having grown rather fond of life on Earth. The book combines irreverent humor with a critique of organized religion and human nature.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its rich, layered narrative and the blending of complex theological and existential questions with comedic elements make it a sophisticated read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a hilarious yet thought-provoking look at good versus evil and the human condition, all wrapped in a fast-paced, fantastical plot.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a mix of humor, fantasy, and philosophical questions.

• Going Bovine by Libba Bray
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Comedy, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: The story follows 16-year-old Cameron who, after being diagnosed with mad cow disease, goes on a road trip to find a cure. Along the way, he encounters a punk angel, a dwarf, and a Norse god disguised as a yard gnome.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book's surreal adventures and deep existential themes are interwoven with pop culture references and social commentary, making it a complex read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It creatively uses humor and fantasy to explore themes of life's purpose and what it means to truly live.
  • Perfect for: Teens who like their books packed with absurdity, wit, and a deeper meaning.

• The Princess Bride by William Goldman
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Romance, Comedy
  • Synopsis: This framed story is presented as an abridged version of a non-existent book, telling the tale of the beautiful Buttercup, her beloved Westley, the dastardly Prince Humperdinck, and a cast of other quirky characters in a tale of adventure, love, and wit.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its intricate narrative structure, playful use of language, and blending of multiple genres require a sophisticated level of reading comprehension.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a unique and entertaining blend of fairy tale, romance, adventure, and satire that also cleverly critiques the nature of storytelling itself.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love stories within stories and those who appreciate a mix of humor, romance, and adventure.

• A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole
  • Genre(s): Comedy, Satire
  • Synopsis: This novel centers on Ignatius J. Reilly, a lazy, obese, and delusional man who lives with his mother in New Orleans. Ignatius's hilarious misadventures are a scathing critique of modern society and its shortcomings.
  • Why this book is challenging: The sophisticated vocabulary, the dense comedic style, and the deep social and philosophical commentary make this a complex read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides an uproarious look at the flaws of society through the eyes of an unforgettable protagonist, combining intellectual stimulation with pure comedic pleasure.
  • Perfect for: Those who appreciate a sharp wit, robust characters, and are not afraid of a bit of cynicism in their reading material.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of funny books, it's not just about the laughs. Developing good reading habits can enhance your understanding and enjoyment of what you read. Here are some simple exercises tailored for 14-16-year-olds that can make your reading sessions even more beneficial and enjoyable.

• Set Specific Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Helps create a consistent reading pattern and builds a reading routine.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them as you get more comfortable.

• Create a Dedicated Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Minimizes distractions and enhances focus on reading.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable, well-lit, and away from noise.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books you read with friends or family members.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Try forming a small book club or join one online that focuses on humorous books.

• Use Active Reading Techniques
  • What it is: Engage actively with the text by questioning, predicting, and summarizing.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and makes reading more interactive.
  • Tips: Keep a pencil handy to jot down thoughts or questions in the margins or a notebook.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Read passages or dialogues out loud from the book.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and helps you understand the rhythm and tone of humor.
  • Tips: Try mimicking the voices of different characters to make it more fun and engaging.

• Take Breaks
  • What it is: Allow yourself short breaks during reading sessions.
  • How it helps: Prevents fatigue and maintains high levels of concentration.
  • Tips: Use a timer to remind yourself to take a 5-minute break every 30 minutes or so.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keep track of progress.
  • Tips: Make it a habit of filling out the journal every day.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you'll not only get more out of your funny books but also develop skills that can benefit your academic and personal life. Remember, the key to becoming a better reader is consistency and enjoyment, so pick the exercises that you find most appealing and start from there. Happy reading!