The 10 Best Humorous Graphic Novels
Book RaiderThere's something undeniably magical about humor and art melding together, creating a whimsical world that is both compelling and amusing. Graphic novels, those paneled gateways into alternate universes, manage to marry these two elements flawlessly. Giving us not only stunning visuals, but also injecting that much-needed dose of laughter, the kind that bubbles up in your throat while you're casually sipping your morning coffee. There's something about spewing coffee out your nose that just amplifies the humor, isn't there?
And who couldn’t use a little more laughter these days? With this techno-centric world trying to squash every bit of joy that we can muster, it does feel nice to get lost between the pages of a funny graphic novel. Whether it's melting into your couch with a winning smirk, or, more likely, evoking strange glances as you chortle on public transport – humorous graphic novels allow that much needed escape into a world that combines visual storytelling with side-splitting wit. Join me, as we explore the realm of the best humorous graphic novels that will tickle your funny bone into overdrive. Trust me, it's way more entertaining than scrolling endlessly through predictable social media feeds.
Guts
by Raina Telgemeier
Why Guts is on this list: Among a sea of humorous graphic novels, 'Guts' stands out as it beautifully combines humorous dialogues and visuals with universally relatable themes like courage and growing up. Raina Telgemeier's simple yet effective storytelling with her trademark comical tone has you genuinely laughing one moment and thoughtfully nodding the next.
'Guts' is an autobiographical comic book that derives its humor from the realities and awkwardness of childhood. It centers around young Raina and her battle with her fear and anxiety about illness, school, and friendships. With humor always around the corner, one can't help but chuckle at the slice of life moments that Raina so candidly presents in her everyday life – be it a totally embarrassing stomach problem in school or a wild imagination of food attacking her.
What readers like: Readers have consistently praised Telgemeier for her ability to deal with serious themes while keeping the tone light and approachable. Her engaging, colorful artwork that complements her humor is a massive part of her popularity. 'Guts' is regarded as a masterstroke in balancing humor with an authentic representation of childhood anxiety. Many readers found it to be a delightful trip down memory lane with a grin never too far away. Plus, who could resist a graphic novel that makes veggies seem funny?
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Dog Man: For Whom the Ball Rolls
by Dav Pilkey
Why Dog Man: For Whom the Ball Rolls is on this list: This book is witty and just the right amount of silly, sure to have you giggling after just a chapter or two. And with its comic-style artwork, it fits perfectly into the ‘humorous graphic novels’ category.
This installment in the Dog Man series follows the adventures of Dog Man and his trusty sidekick, Cat Kid. When a new villain surfaces, it's up to Dog Man to save the day, but not without many hilarious obstacles and slapstick moments in the way. You’ll be enthralled by the intriguing plot, chuckling at the antics, while still mindful of the underlying theme of friendship and harmony.
What readers like: Readers love the unique blend of humor and heart in this book. Not only does it induce laughter, but it also weaves in some valuable lessons about teamwork, friendship and bravery. Plus, the playful illustrations are a delight to look at, making reading this book even more enjoyable.
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Nimona
by Noelle Stevenson
Why Nimona is on this list: Nimona expertly blends the humour and art form that characterizes the very best graphic novels. Stevenson's witty writing style, combined with the book's light-hearted art, makes it a perfect fit for our list of 'The 11 Best Humorous Graphic Novels'.
Nimona is an unexpected hero who shapeshifts both physically and morally, dwelling in a world that breaks traditional fantasy stereotypes. The story revolves around Nimona, a shapeshifting girl, who acts as a sidekick to the nation’s villain, Lord Ballister Blackheart. A dose of wit suffuses the whole twisted game between good and evil, creating a hilarious spin on the classic struggle.
What readers like: Readers who enjoy humor, unique characters and a fresh perspective on classic themes will surely find this book delightful. The blend of laughter and thought-provoking contents makes the reading an exciting and engaging experience. They also appreciate the art style, which efficiently captures the light-hearted spirit of the story.
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Bad Island
by Doug TenNapel
Why Bad Island is on this list: If laughter truly is the best medicine, then Bad Island is a full-on comedy pharmacy. Blending humor with a bit of the weird and wonderful, this graphic novel appeals to the funny bone at every page turn.
Bad Island is a roller coaster of a story featuring an average family that shipwrecks on a mysterious island. The twist? The island isn't just a normal island; it's a living, breathing, and particularly moody entity. This book is just as humorous as it is thrilling, leaving readers guessing what crazy event is going to happen next while chuckling at the family's comical responses.
What readers like: Readers can't get enough of TenNapel's unique humor style and captivating storytelling. The witty dialogues, hilarious situations and quirky characters are a huge draw, making this book a must-read. Fans also rave about the unexpected twists and turns that add an element of surprise to the humor. It's safe to say that this is the kind of book that will keep you gleefully glued to the pages.
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Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking Ball
by Jeff Kinney
Why Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking Ball is on this list: Much like me trying to navigate a new yoga class, the characters in this comic book find themselves in funny and awkward situations that will split your sides with laughter.
Riding high on the success of the 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' series, this particular graphic novel stands out for its wackily humorous plot. When Greg Heffley's family inherits money, they decide to make improvements to their house. But, as you might guess, things don’t exactly go as planned, leading to a myriad of hilarious scenarios that cascade into a full-blown mess.
What readers like: Fans of 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking Ball' adore the clever humor that the author uses to narrate the story. They especially enjoy the everyday situations that he transforms into laugh-out-loud moments, providing a perfect escape from real-life stress. Not to forget, the engaging illustrations that come to life as each page is turned, making it a joy for both children and adults alike.
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Adulthood Is a Myth
by Sarah Andersen
Why Adulthood Is a Myth is on this list: Illustrated with hilarity and honesty, Adulthood Is a Myth cleverly captures the comically flawed realities of adult life in bite-sized graphic stories. It's a no-brainer for a list of the best humorous graphic novels.
Sarah Andersen's Adulthood Is a Myth is a collection of comic strips that reveals the awkwardness, uncertainty, and surreal experiences of what we call 'grown-up' life. It covers everything from social anxieties, body image issues, to the never-ending dilemma of being an introvert in an extrovert’s world. Through heartwarming humor, Sarah reminds us that adulthood isn't as scary or serious as we make it out to be.
What readers like: Readers love Sarah's relatable depiction of daily struggles and heartfelt moments. They find comfort and hilarity in seeing their own not-so-glamorous encounters with adulthood reflected in comic form. Many enjoy Sarah's unique style and clever humor, which brightens their day and leaves them laughing out loud. The book has a charming ability to transform the mundane into something remarkably funny.
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Hyperbole and a Half: Unfortunate Situations, Flawed Coping Mechanisms, Mayhem, and Other Things That Happened
by Allie Brosh
Why Hyperbole and a Half: Unfortunate Situations, Flawed Coping Mechanisms, Mayhem, and Other Things That Happened is on this list: This book is a shining beacon of humor and hilarity in the often drab world of graphic novels. Brimming with weird and wonderful illustrations and a sharp wit that keeps on giving, it's one of the most entertaining reads you'll come across.
Brosh's debut is a deeply funny and relatable book. It's crammed full of stories from her own life which she cartoonishly illustrates in her own unique style. She explores everything from her childhood shenanigans to her struggles with depression, always with a healthy dollop of humor. Remarkable illustrations, with squiggly lines and distorted faces, perfectly capture the spirit of her stories.
What readers like: Readers love Brosh's keen sense of observation and zany storytelling style. Her ability to laugh at herself and her situation is admirable and infectious. Also, her illustrations are just the right touch of odd and exaggerated, which goes hand in hand with her self-deprecating humor. This book is for anyone who enjoys a good chuckle and isn't afraid of a little silliness along the way.
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How to Invent Everything: A Survival Guide for the Stranded Time Traveler
by Ryan North
Why How to Invent Everything: A Survival Guide for the Stranded Time Traveler is on this list: This is a chuckle-inducing graphic novel that brazenly defies reality and teaches you about essential inventions as if you were a cast-away time traveler. It's definitely a giggle machine that fits right into our list.
Imagine this horror - you're stuck in the past with no idea how to survive. So, what do you do? You invent everything! This book, presented in a droll and witty comic style, breaks down the science behind critical inventions throughout history. From the discovery of fire to creating the smartphone, it throws you through a hoop of humorously explained technological breakthroughs.
What readers like: Aside from the belly laughs this book guarantees, readers appreciate how Ryan North manages to sneakily educate you while keeping you thoroughly entertained. They also rave about the eye-catching illustrations and North's ability to break down complex concepts into digestible comedic bites. It's a hilarious graphic novel written in a way that isn't just about the laugh, but also about learning something new in a fun way.
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Why My Cat Is More Impressive Than Your Baby
by Matthew Inman
Why Why My Cat Is More Impressive Than Your Baby is on this list: This book is one the most hilarious graphic novels out there. It perfectly mixes Inman’s wit with relatable humor every pet-owner (and parent) will definitely get. It’s impossible not to giggle your way through this book.
Why My Cat Is More Impressive Than Your Baby tells a multitude of stories about the day-to-day life of pets, particularly Inman's cat, The Bear. Inman colorfully illustrates his vibrant and, often, slapstick humor on each page. There's an epic battle between The Bear and the bathtub, the inevitable and amusing defiance when faced with a cat leash and a handful of encounters with the brashness of pet and human babies. It’s a brilliant comic tale of fur babies ruling and the absurdities of parenting, all penned with Inman’s quirky spin.
What readers like: Readers love the book's effortless humor and relatability. They praise Inman's knack of spinning ordinary everyday events into hilarious anecdotes. Many find the illustrations engaging and the humor refreshing - something they can resultantly roll with laughter over, or agree 'that's so my life!' Plus, every pet owner finds some comic representation of their fur baby.
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Can't We Talk about Something More Pleasant?
by Roz Chast
Why Can't We Talk about Something More Pleasant? is on this list: Chast's novel captures the humor in life's most serious situations, making it a perfect fit for our list.
This graphic novel is a heartrending yet hilarious memoir about Chast's personal experience dealing with her elderly parents. Buckle up for a wild ride through the ups, the downs, the bizarre, and the tragically funny moments of a journey most of us will take at some point in life.
What readers like: Readers appreciate Chast's dry wit and her ability to find humor in every situation, no matter how grim-it-may-seem. The relatability of caring for aging parents, along with the spot-on illustrations, make this book a stand out.
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