10+ Best Humorous Books for 13-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Looking for a way to keep your 13-year-old entertained and giggling through the pages? You’ve landed in the perfect spot! Our roundup of humorous books for 13-year-olds is packed with stories that are sure to bring a smile to their face and a chuckle to their day. Keep reading to discover our favorite picks that promise loads of laughter and fun!

Fun Humorous Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fiction, Graphic Novel
  • Synopsis: Follow the adventures and misadventures of Greg Heffley as he navigates middle school with his best friend Rowley. Greg's journal entries and drawings capture the hilarity and awkwardness of being a teenager.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's incredibly relatable and laugh-out-loud funny, making it an easy read that can help instill a love of reading.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy a good laugh and those who might be reluctant readers.

• The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Sixth-grader Dwight talks to his classmates via an origami finger puppet of Yoda, dispensing wisdom that is surprisingly accurate. The book is structured as a collection of stories from different viewpoints, with sketches and side notes adding to the fun.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with a unique format, engaging readers with its creativity and mystery.
  • Perfect for: Fans of Star Wars and anyone who enjoys creative storytelling.

• The Bad Beginning (A Series of Unfortunate Events, Book 1) by Lemony Snicket, illustrated by Brett Helquist
  • Genre(s): Humor, Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: The Baudelaire siblings face a series of unfortunate events following the mysterious death of their parents. The children contend with the evil Count Olaf, who is after their inheritance.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its dark humor and clever writing make it a captivating read that also introduces themes of resilience and resourcefulness.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate a mix of humor and mystery, and stories with a slightly darker twist.

• Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Set in a bizarre school built 30-stories high (with one classroom on each floor), each chapter tells the eccentric story of a different student or teacher at Wayside School.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its absurd and surreal humor is perfect for tickling the funny bone of young readers and keeping them engaged.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy quirky, out-of-the-box stories.

• Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life by James Patterson and Chris Tebbetts, illustrated by Laura Park
  • Genre(s): Humor, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Rafe Khatchadorian plans to break every rule in his school's oppressive code of conduct to make his sixth-grade year memorable. As his mischief escalates, so do the stakes.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a humorous take on the challenges of middle school life, encouraging readers to think creatively about self-expression.
  • Perfect for: Middle schoolers who might be feeling the pressures of adolescence and could use a laugh.

Educational Humorous Books for 13-Year-Olds

• An Abundance of Katherines by John Green
  • Genre(s): Humor, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: After being dumped by nineteen girls named Katherine, child prodigy Colin Singleton embarks on a road trip with his best friend, determined to prove his theorem of predicting the outcome of any relationship.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Mathematical theories, relationship dynamics, self-discovery
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a witty, intelligent novel with a blend of humor and mathematical references that makes learning fun.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in a mix of humor, math, and romance.

• The Willoughbys by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Humor, Parody
  • Synopsis: This book satirically mimics classic orphan stories as the Willoughby children plot to become orphans and their neglectful parents plan to abandon them. Chaos and comedy ensue.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of literary styles, critical thinking, vocabulary expansion
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a hilarious take on traditional children’s tales, encouraging readers to think critically about the stories they read.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy satire and clever twists on classic themes.

• Alcatraz Versus the Evil Librarians by Brandon Sanderson
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Alcatraz Smedry discovers he's part of a family with magical talents and must battle a cult of evil Librarians who secretly control the world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, imaginative reasoning, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fantastical adventure filled with quirky humor and unique magical elements that keep the pages turning.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love fantasy and humor with a side of conspiracy.

• I Funny: A Middle School Story by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein
  • Genre(s): Humor, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Wheelchair-bound Jamie Grimm navigates middle school while aspiring to become the world’s greatest stand-up comedian, dealing with bullies and family issues along the way.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, resilience, understanding of physical disabilities
  • Why we recommend this book: Combines humor with heartfelt moments, providing both entertainment and empathy-building perspectives.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love comedy and stories about overcoming challenges.

• Cosmic by Frank Cottrell Boyce
  • Genre(s): Humor, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Oversized 12-year-old Liam pretends to be an adult to go on a space adventure, learning about responsibility and what it means to be a grown-up.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Responsibility, space science, identity exploration
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s an out-of-this-world adventure that’s as funny as it is poignant, perfect for sparking interest in space and self-discovery.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who dream big and enjoy cosmic adventures mixed with humor.

Challenging Humorous Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Me and Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews
  • Genre(s): Humor, Young Adult, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: Greg Gaines, an awkward high school senior, and his friend Earl find their lives forever changed when they befriend Rachel, a girl diagnosed with leukemia.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel tackles serious themes like cancer, death, and friendship through a humorous lens, requiring readers to process complex emotional content.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique blend of humor and heartbreak, teaching valuable lessons about life and relationships through a genuinely funny narrative.
  • Perfect for: Teens looking for a laugh but ready to handle mature themes.

• Going Bovine by Libba Bray
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fantasy, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: Sixteen-year-old Cameron Smith embarks on a crazy, quixotic journey inspired by visions of a punk rock angel after being diagnosed with mad cow disease.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel’s surreal adventures and deep philosophical questions provide a complex reading experience that challenges perceptions of reality and meaning.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s wildly imaginative and funny, with a deep narrative that encourages readers to think about life’s bigger questions.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers who enjoy a mix of humor and existential inquiry.

• Beauty Queens by Libba Bray
  • Genre(s): Humor, Adventure, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: A plane crash strands a group of beauty pageant contestants on a deserted island, leading to a wild and satirical survival tale.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book combines sharp satire with a plethora of cultural references and a complex plot, requiring readers to understand and appreciate layered humor and social commentary.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a hilarious critique of commercialism and beauty standards, packed with action and empowering messages.
  • Perfect for: Teenagers who like their humor with a side of social critique and feminist flair.

• Dodger by Terry Pratchett
  • Genre(s): Humor, Historical Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Set in early Victorian London, Dodger, a street urchin, rises from the streets to rub shoulders with the famous and powerful after he saves a mysterious girl from a beating.
  • Why this book is challenging: Pratchett’s work features rich historical detail and intricate wordplay, demanding a keen understanding of context and language.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a fantastic mix of history, humor, and fantasy that offers a playful yet insightful look at Victorian society.
  • Perfect for: Young readers with a love for history and a sharp wit.

• Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Artemis Fowl, a twelve-year-old genius and criminal mastermind, captures a fairy and demands a ransom to restore his family's fortune, sparking a dangerous battle of wits with the magical creatures of the underworld.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel features complex plots and high-level vocabulary that require advanced reading skills and critical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines clever humor with thrilling action, making it an engaging read that stimulates the imagination and intellect.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy a good laugh alongside a fast-paced, intellectually engaging story.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of humorous books and you're around 13 years old, you're in for a treat! Not only is laughter the best medicine, but it also makes reading a whole lot of fun. Below are some exercises that can help you develop great reading habits while keeping the giggles going. Let's check them out!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how many books you want to read over a certain period.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and focused on reading regularly.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Designate a special corner in your home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances your reading experience by making it comfortable and enjoyable.
  • Tips: Include comfy seating, good lighting, and maybe even some personal touches like posters or plants.

• Read Aloud to Others
  • What it is: Share a funny book by reading it aloud to family or friends.
  • How it helps: Improves your reading skills and makes the experience more engaging.
  • Tips: Try using different voices for different characters to make the story come alive.

• Join or Start a Book Club
  • What it is: Gather a group of friends who read the same book and discuss it together.
  • How it helps: Encourages analytical thinking and gives you different perspectives on the book.
  • Tips: Keep the group small to ensure everyone gets a chance to speak up.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize technology to track and enhance your reading habits.
  • How it helps: Provides helpful tools like reminders, summaries, and progress tracking.
  • Tips: Explore apps that offer rewards for meeting reading goals to keep it exciting.

• Illustrate a Scene
  • What it is: Draw your favorite scene from a book you're reading.
  • How it helps: Engages your creative skills and helps you remember the story better.
  • Tips: Don't worry about artistic perfection; focus on expressing how the scene made you feel.

• Write a Book Review
  • What it is: After finishing a book, write a review summarizing your thoughts and feelings about it.
  • How it helps: Helps you reflect on what you read and develop your writing skills.
  • Tips: Include what you liked, didn't like, and whether you'd recommend the book to others.

These exercises aren't just about improving your reading skills—they're about making reading a fun part of your everyday life. Whether you're laughing out loud at a silly character or drawing your favorite scene, you're building a lifelong love for books. So grab your next humorous read, and let's get started! Happy reading!