10+ Best Funny Books for 70-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Looking for a good chuckle? Whether you're shopping for a loved one or hunting for your next favorite read, our list of funny books for 70-year-olds is sure to tickle your funny bone. From timeless humor to contemporary laughs, we've rounded up a variety of titles that promise to lighten the mood and bring a smile. Keep reading to discover our top picks for funny books that cater specifically to the 70-year-old reader!

Fun Funny Books for 70-Year-Olds

• A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Ove, a curmudgeonly old man whose grumpy life is changed by new neighbors who challenge his solitary ways.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with deep, poignant moments that resonate well with older readers who understand the complexities of life and relationships.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate stories about personal transformation and the impact of community.

• Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson
  • Genre(s): Romance, Humor, Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story revolves around Major Ernest Pettigrew, a retired British army major living in a small village, who develops an unexpected relationship with Mrs. Jasmina Ali, a Pakistani shopkeeper.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a charming and gently humorous look at the conflicts between tradition and modernity, and between different cultures and generations.
  • Perfect for: Those who enjoy novels about late-life romances and cultural nuances.

• The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Humor
  • Synopsis: On his 100th birthday, Allan Karlsson escapes from his nursing home and embarks on an unexpected journey that involves a suitcase full of cash and a series of comic misadventures.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an absurd and whimsical novel that proves it's never too late for an adventure, appealing to the sense of freedom and unpredictability.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous souls who enjoy satirical humor and quirky characters.

• The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
  • Genre(s): Romance, Humor, Fiction
  • Synopsis: The book follows Don Tillman, a socially awkward genetics professor who designs a scientific survey to find the perfect wife, only to have it upended by Rosie Jarman, who is everything he's not looking for.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a heartwarming, funny, and insightful exploration into the complexities of love and relationships, particularly appealing to those who believe in the unpredictability of love.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a good laugh mixed with a touching story about finding love in unexpected places.

• Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor, Historical
  • Synopsis: This novel intertwines the past and the present through the tale of Idgie Threadgoode and her friend Ruth in 1920s Alabama, and a modern-day friendship between Evelyn Couch and Ninny Threadgoode.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's rich with Southern charm and humor, providing an engaging narrative that delves into the importance of friendship and community.
  • Perfect for: Those who love multi-generational tales with strong, memorable characters and a dash of Southern history.

Educational Funny Books for 70-Year-Olds

• The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: The book centers on A.J. Fikry, the irritable owner of a small bookstore on Alice Island, whose life takes an unexpected turn when a mysterious package appears at his bookstore.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, understanding of personal transformation, appreciation for literature
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with touching moments that explore the transformative power of books and relationships.
  • Perfect for: Book lovers and anyone who enjoys stories about second chances in life.

• Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Eleanor Oliphant, a socially awkward and routine-oriented woman whose life changes when she and a coworker help an elderly gentleman who has fallen on the sidewalk.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Social skills, emotional intelligence, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a heartwarming, funny, and sometimes heartbreaking tale that highlights the importance of human connection and self-healing.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate character-driven narratives and stories about overcoming the challenges of social isolation.

• The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Retired and seemingly stuck in a monotonous life, Harold Fry receives a letter that sets him on an impromptu walk across England, a journey that becomes a pilgrimage of self-discovery and redemption.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-reflection, endurance, understanding of grief and healing
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully captures the essence of human vulnerability and the unexpected adventures that can change our lives.
  • Perfect for: Those who enjoy uplifting stories of personal growth and the scenic backdrop of a cross-country journey.

• Today Will Be Different by Maria Semple
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: The story follows Eleanor Flood over the course of a day as she attempts to set her life right, which becomes a comic exploration of family, success, and the lies we tell ourselves and others.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-awareness, family dynamics, stress management
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a humorous yet poignant look at the struggles of daily life and the quest for personal improvement.
  • Perfect for: Readers who like contemporary stories with quirky characters and relatable life challenges.

• At Home in Mitford by Jan Karon
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor, Christian
  • Synopsis: The book introduces us to Father Tim, the bachelor rector of Mitford’s small Episcopal church, whose life is filled with eccentrics and animals needing his care, all of which bring humor and faith into his daily routine.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Spiritual growth, community involvement, compassion
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a gentle and humorous look at small-town life, filled with characters that feel like family and friends.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy heartwarming tales with a strong sense of community and a touch of spirituality.

Challenging Funny Books for 70-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, each trying to maintain their sanity while fulfilling their service requirements so that they may return home.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative is non-linear and filled with complex satire that critiques bureaucracy and the absurdity of war, requiring readers to engage deeply with the text to appreciate its nuances.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a masterful blend of humor, tragedy, and irony, offering profound insights into the human condition and the absurdities of modern life.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy sharp wit, complex narratives, and critical explorations of societal issues.

• Portnoy's Complaint by Philip Roth
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Dark Comedy
  • Synopsis: This novel takes the form of an outrageous, comedic monologue by Alexander Portnoy to his psychoanalyst, Dr. Spielvogel. It explores themes of sexual identity and psychological frustration, as well as conflicts between modern living and Jewish identity.
  • Why this book is challenging: Roth's style is dense, filled with stream-of-consciousness narrative and complex vocabulary that demands attentive reading.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers an unflinchingly humorous yet poignant look at human sexuality, freedom, and neurosis.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a humorous, albeit provocative, exploration of personal and cultural identity.

• Money: A Suicide Note by Martin Amis
  • Genre(s): Satire, Black Humor
  • Synopsis: The novel chronicles the life of John Self, a successful director of commercials who is both self-destructive and self-absorbed. As he attempts to direct his first feature film, his life spirals into chaos.
  • Why this book is challenging: Amis employs a complex narrative structure and a unique, frenetic prose style that satirizes excess and corruption in the modern world.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book offers a scathing and darkly funny look at the excesses of capitalism and the pitfalls of hedonism.
  • Perfect for: Those who appreciate a critical look at consumerism and self-indulgence through sharp wit and vivid storytelling.

• The Sellout by Paul Beatty
  • Genre(s): Satire, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This biting satire challenges the sacred tenets of the United States Constitution, urban life, the civil rights movement, and the father-son relationship through the story of a young man's isolated upbringing and the race trial that sends him to the Supreme Court.
  • Why this book is challenging: Beatty's novel is rich in satire, cultural references, and complex themes that require a nuanced understanding of American racial dynamics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an intelligent and hilarious novel that tackles serious social issues with wit and a sharp eye for hypocrisy.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in deep, thought-provoking humor that challenges societal norms and personal beliefs.

• Three Men in a Boat (To Say Nothing of the Dog) by Jerome K. Jerome
  • Genre(s): Humor, Classic
  • Synopsis: This timeless comedy narrates the adventures and misadventures of three friends and their dog on a boat trip along the River Thames in England.
  • Why this book is challenging: The Victorian-era English and the idiosyncratic humor require a sophisticated level of comprehension and an appreciation for subtle wit.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines delightful British humor with timeless observations about human nature, making it a perennial joy to read.
  • Perfect for: Those who enjoy classic humor and tales of friendship and folly.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Reading can be a source of laughter and joy, especially as we age. If you're around 70 and looking to dive into some funny books, incorporating a few simple reading exercises can enhance your experience. Here are some exercises tailored to help you develop good reading habits while enjoying your humorous reads:

• Set Regular Reading Times
  • What it is: Schedule specific times of the day for reading.
  • How it helps: Creates a routine, making reading a regular part of your day.
  • Tips: Choose times when you feel most alert and relaxed, perhaps morning coffee or right before dinner.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Read parts of the book out loud to yourself or others.
  • How it helps: Improves memory and understanding through auditory reinforcement.
  • Tips: Try to express the humor in your voice; it makes the reading more enjoyable and lively.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in a group that reads and discusses books regularly.
  • How it helps: Encourages social interactions and provides different perspectives on the same book.
  • Tips: Look for local libraries or online platforms that host book clubs focused on humor or literature suitable for your age group.

• Use a Reading Light
  • What it is: Employ a dedicated reading light when reading.
  • How it helps: Reduces eye strain and improves focus, especially important for older eyes.
  • Tips: Choose a light that is easy on the eyes but bright enough to illuminate the pages clearly.

• 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.

• Limit Distractions
  • What it is: Create a quiet, dedicated space for reading without interruptions.
  • How it helps: Enhances concentration and allows you to get more immersed in the book.
  • Tips: Inform others of your reading time to help minimize disturbances.

By integrating these exercises into your reading routine, you'll not only improve your reading habits but also enhance your enjoyment of the books. Happy reading, and may your days be filled with laughter and great literature!