Every year, World Laughter Day reminds us of something we often take for granted—how powerful a good laugh can be. Whether it’s breaking a stressful day or bringing people closer together, laughter is truly healing. And what better way to celebrate this joyful occasion than by curling up with a book that lifts your spirits? 

We’ve rounded up five feel-good reads that are sure to make you smile, chuckle, or even laugh out loud. From hilarious professors living double lives to poems, puns, and parenting chaos, these books highlight the power of humor and the delight of seeing the world through a lighter lens. 

1. A Comedy of Pretzels by J.J. Boskin 

What happens when a young academic leads a double life as a stand-up comic? That’s the premise of A Comedy of Pretzels, a clever and thought-provoking satire where tradition collides with comedy culture. Reuben Lamberth, a bright scholar at a prestigious northeastern university, hides his side gig as a stand-up comedian under the alias “Josh Sandburg” (a name inspired by joshing and Carl Sandburg). His wife, his boss, and even the university president have no idea he’s moonlighting in comedy clubs. 

The stakes? Tenure. Marriage. Reputation. Boskin’s narrative is smart, layered, and full of dry wit as Reuben contemplates whether truth, comedy, and academia can ever truly coexist. The result is a sharp, intellectual novel that lands every punchline while posing questions about identity and authenticity. If you enjoy humor that makes you think, this is a perfect pick. 

2. Yes, Doctor, We Have Sixteen Dogs by Marc Alden 

Ever wondered how honest Abe Lincoln really was? Or what kind of legal wisdom porn stars could bring to court? Yes, Doctor, We Have Sixteen Dogs is a delightfully offbeat collection of observations, jokes, puns, and poems straight out of the quirky corners of Northeast Wisconsin. 

Alden’s style is irreverent, imaginative, and wholly original. From bizarre knock-knock jokes to ridiculous rants and hilarious definitions, every page bursts with energy. Despite its wild humor, the book never veers into cruelty. It’s playful, witty, and endearingly ridiculous—kind of like living in a house with sixteen dogs. And yes, there is a naked Scotsman. This is the kind of book you pick up on a gloomy day and put down smiling. 

3. Laughing Out of Context by Rachel Zangrillo-Galicinao 

Parenting can be beautiful—and exhausting. In Laughing Out of Context, we follow Mia, a mom juggling the chaos of motherhood with the occasional need to hide in her “escape room.” Her six-year-old son Cody is a nonstop mischief-maker, especially with their playful Dalmatian, Caesar, in tow. From public embarrassments to no-filter kid moments, Mia’s life is a whirlwind of love, frustration, and laugh-out-loud scenarios. 

What makes this book so special is its relatability. Every parent will see a bit of themselves in Mia’s struggles to stay sane while also staying kind. Through moments of humor, solitude, and a nightly glass of wine, she navigates modern motherhood with grace and a whole lot of laughter. It’s the perfect reminder that sometimes, the only way to survive parenting is to laugh your way through it. 

4. To Make You Smile by Brenda L. Demmans 

Brenda L. Demmans delivers exactly what the title promises—stories crafted to make you smile. This delightful collection features 12 short stories and one longer tale, brimming with whimsy and warmth. The book appeals to readers of all ages, blending nostalgic storytelling with imaginative plots and lovable characters. 

Highlights include “Shy Brenda,” an autobiographical coming-of-age story set in 1950s Ontario, and “Arnie,” an adventurous armadillo who dreams of diamond mining in Brazil. You’ll also meet Perkins the preacher praying mantis, and Fustus the fly with a flair for mischief. Whether you’re young or simply young at heart, these stories offer a gentle, joyful escape from everyday stress. 

5. The Ah-Ha Moment by Martin Cohen 

Humor meets intellect in The Ah-Ha Moment, a philosophical exploration of jokes and riddles that reveal deep truths about how we think. Martin Cohen argues that humor isn’t just entertainment—it’s a powerful tool for insight. A good joke flips expectations, finds patterns, and makes connections in the most unexpected ways. In that way, it’s no different from the breakthroughs of art or science. 

Blending wit, irony, and mind-bending logic, Cohen walks us through the hidden intelligence behind humor. It’s an enlightening and entertaining read that will have you chuckling one minute and reflecting deeply the next. 

Celebrate with a Smile 

World Laughter Day isn’t just about jokes—it’s about connection, joy, and the healing power of a good laugh. Whether you’re in need of a mental boost, a light-hearted distraction, or just a reason to grin, these books offer a little something for everyone. 

So brew a cup of tea, find a comfy spot, and pick up one of these feel-good reads. Because, as these authors remind us, sometimes the best therapy is simply turning the page and laughing along. 

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