10+ Best Funny Books for 20-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you a 20-year-old looking to add a dash of humor to your reading list? You're in the right place! Our curated selection of funny books for 20-year-olds is packed with laughs that perfectly match your sense of humor and life experiences. Whether you're in the mood for a light-hearted escape or a witty reflection on young adulthood, these picks are sure to tickle your funny bone. Keep reading to discover your next favorite book!

Fun Funny Books for 20-Year-Olds

• Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Comedy
  • Synopsis: This novel follows an angel, Aziraphale, and a demon, Crowley, as they attempt to prevent the apocalypse. Both having grown fond of Earth, they team up to stop the coming of the Antichrist and save the world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a hilarious and clever take on the biblical apocalypse narrative, filled with satire and wit that resonates well with the young adult demographic.
  • Perfect for: Fans of supernatural themes and anyone who enjoys a good laugh mixed with some existential questions.

• Bossypants by Tina Fey
  • Genre(s): Autobiography, Comedy
  • Synopsis: This book is a memoir from the beloved comedian and actress Tina Fey, detailing her life, career, and experiences in comedy.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a humorous and insightful look into the challenges and triumphs of a woman in comedy, offering relatable anecdotes and life lessons that are especially poignant for young adults.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring comedians, feminists, and young professionals looking to navigate their early careers with a sense of humor.

• Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris
  • Genre(s): Humor, Memoir
  • Synopsis: Through various essays, Sedaris shares anecdotes from his life, ranging from his quirky family in North Carolina to his adventures as an expat in France.
  • Why we recommend this book: Sedaris's sharp wit and keen observations make the mundane aspects of everyday life extraordinarily funny and engaging for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Anyone who appreciates a blend of humor and memoir, or those who enjoy stories about American life and European misadventures.

• The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Comedy
  • Synopsis: This book follows Arthur Dent, a man whisked away into space just before Earth is demolished to make way for a galactic freeway. With the help of an eccentric alien, he journeys across the universe.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its absurd and satirical look at life, technology, and the universe appeals to young adults' sense of adventure and humor.
  • Perfect for: Sci-fi fans and anyone who enjoys exploring philosophical questions through a comedic lens.

• Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh
  • Genre(s): Graphic Memoir, Comedy
  • Synopsis: This collection of illustrated essays is based on Brosh’s wildly popular blog. It features humorous stories from her childhood, her struggles with depression, and her beloved dog.
  • Why we recommend this book: The combination of candid storytelling and quirky illustrations makes complex feelings and situations accessible and relatable, particularly to young adults.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy visual storytelling and those dealing with or interested in mental health discussions with a light-hearted twist.

Educational Funny Books for 20-Year-Olds

• An Absolutely Remarkable Thing by Hank Green
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Comedy
  • Synopsis: The novel follows April May, a young woman who stumbles upon a mysterious giant sculpture in New York City. Her life changes overnight as she becomes an internet sensation, trying to uncover the truth behind these sculptures and their origins.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Social media literacy, critical thinking, public relations
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a witty and engaging commentary on fame, social media, and humanity’s reaction to the unknown, all wrapped in an entertaining sci-fi plot.
  • Perfect for: Young adults interested in social media dynamics and those who love sci-fi with a contemporary twist.

• Let's Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson
  • Genre(s): Memoir, Humor
  • Synopsis: In this book, Lawson shares bizarre and hilarious stories from her life, from her eccentric childhood in Texas to her awkward adult adventures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creative thinking, stress relief through humor, emotional resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: Lawson's unique voice and outrageous stories provide not only laughter but also a deep sense of relatability and comfort in embracing one's quirks.
  • Perfect for: Anyone who enjoys memoirs filled with humor and the reassurance that everyone’s life is a little chaotic.

• The Sellout by Paul Beatty
  • Genre(s): Satire, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of a young man's isolated upbringing and the race trial that sends him to the Supreme Court. It challenges the sacred tenets of the United States Constitution, urban life, the civil rights movement, and the father-son relationship.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking on social issues, understanding of racial dynamics in America, satire comprehension
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a sharp, biting satire on race relations in contemporary America, offering profound insights through its humor and absurdity.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a thought-provoking, humorous take on serious societal issues.

• Yes Please by Amy Poehler
  • Genre(s): Autobiography, Comedy
  • Synopsis: This memoir offers a glimpse into the personal and professional life of comedian Amy Poehler, sharing tales from her childhood, her time on SNL, and her thoughts on life, love, and motherhood.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-confidence, motivational insights, entertainment industry knowledge
  • Why we recommend this book: Poehler's book is not only funny and candid but also filled with heartwarming and empowering messages.
  • Perfect for: Fans of comedy, aspiring actors and comedians, and anyone looking for a mix of humor and inspiration.

• Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things by Jenny Lawson
  • Genre(s): Memoir, Humor
  • Synopsis: Lawson explores her lifelong battle with mental illness with humor and honesty, explaining how it has led her to live life to the fullest and find joy in the most unexpected ways.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Mental health awareness, coping mechanisms through humor, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It tackles serious topics like depression and anxiety with irreverence and humor, making it both enlightening and entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Those who appreciate humor’s role in dealing with personal struggles and fans of memoirs that mix laughter with real-life challenges.

Challenging Funny Books for 20-Year-Olds

• A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole
  • Genre(s): Comedy, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel features the comedic adventures of Ignatius J. Reilly, a lazy and eccentric slob who embarks on various misadventures in New Orleans.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative is rich with complex characters and a deep, satirical portrayal of society that requires keen attention to detail and understanding of historical and cultural references.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a masterful blend of humor and critique of modern values, offering both laughs and insights into the absurdities of society.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy satire and character-driven stories, and those who appreciate a deeper look at societal norms through comedy.

• 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 his squadron members, who must maintain their sanity while fulfilling their service requirements so they can return home.
  • Why this book is challenging: The story employs a non-linear narrative structure and explores complex themes of absurdity and the horrors of war, which demand critical thinking and reflection.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a powerful mix of the ridiculous and the tragic, forcing readers to laugh while questioning the ethics and sense of wartime realities.
  • Perfect for: Those interested in military history, satire, and stories that challenge traditional storytelling.

• Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace
  • Genre(s): Literary Fiction, Satire
  • Synopsis: This expansive and intricate novel explores a variety of themes including addiction, entertainment, and the pursuit of happiness, centered around an enigmatic film said to be so entertaining that viewers lose all desire to do anything else.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its length, depth of content, extensive footnotes, and complex narrative structure make it a formidable read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an intellectually stimulating book that offers profound insights into modern life and the meaning of entertainment.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a challenging read that combines humor with deep philosophical questions.

• The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde
  • Genre(s): Comedy, Drama
  • Synopsis: This play is a farcical comedy in which the protagonists maintain fictitious personae to escape burdensome social obligations.
  • Why this book is challenging: Wilde’s use of wit and satire requires a sharp understanding of Victorian society and the nuances of language.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's celebrated for its clever dialogue, humorous critique of social morality and identities, and its light-hearted take on serious subjects.
  • Perfect for: Fans of classic literature and plays, and readers who enjoy smart, timeless humor.

• Portnoy's Complaint by Philip Roth
  • Genre(s): Literary Fiction, Comedy
  • Synopsis: This novel is a humorous monologue by Alexander Portnoy, who speaks with his psychoanalyst about his sexual obsessions and neuroses.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book’s stream-of-consciousness narrative and explicit content provide a deep dive into psychological complexity and societal taboos.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a humorous yet insightful look into human psychology and the conflicts between personal desire and cultural expectations.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in psychology, sexual identity, and cultural commentary, who are also looking for humor and provocation in their reading.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into some hilarious reads tailored for 20-year-olds, why not enhance your reading experience with some simple exercises? These will not only make your reading sessions more enjoyable but also help you develop lasting reading habits. Let's check them out!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on the number of books or pages you want to read each week or month.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and makes reading a regular part of your life.
  • Tips: Start small and gradually increase your goal as you get more comfortable.

• Read with Friends
  • What it is: Form a book club or read the same book as a friend.
  • How it helps: Discussing the book can enhance understanding and make reading more enjoyable.
  • Tips: Schedule regular meet-ups to discuss the book, whether in person or online.

• Create a Dedicated Reading Space
  • What it is: Set up a specific area in your home where you can read without distractions.
  • How it helps: Helps associate this space with reading and can improve focus.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting.

• Use Social Media Wisely
  • What it is: Follow book blogs, join reading groups on social media, or share your reading progress online.
  • How it helps: Keeps you engaged and can provide book recommendations and reviews.
  • Tips: Limit your time on social media to avoid distractions from actual reading.

• Incorporate Reading into Your Daily Routine
  • What it is: Choose a specific time each day dedicated solely to reading.
  • How it helps: Ensures you read every day and helps form a strong reading habit.
  • Tips: Morning or bedtime are popular choices, but pick a time that works best for you.

So, ready to get started? These exercises are not just about improving your reading habits; they're about making reading a fun and integral part of your everyday life. Grab that funny book, find a cozy corner, and let's turn those pages! Happy reading!