Unearth 9 Comedy Horror Books That Will Make You Laugh
Book RaiderEver found yourself chuckling through a tense scene in a horror movie? Does the thought of a zombie with a sense of humor tickle your funny bone? Well, don't worry, you're not alone. There's an entire genre out there merging hilarity with horror and it's just waiting to be devoured - Comedy Horror. It's like mixing hot sauce with ice cream, unorthodox, but oddly satisfying.
For the uninitiated, brace yourselves as we delve into a world where goosebumps and giggles go hand in hand. A realm where fears are faced with humor, and chillers come with chuckles. If you're ready to swap your 'once upon a time' with 'it was a dark and stormy night', then fasten your seatbelts. This might get spooky...and ridiculously funny.
Horrorstör
by Grady Hendrix
Why Horrorstör is on this list: Horrorstör strikes a perfect balance between comedy and horror. Its novel concept of setting a horror story within an IKEA-like furniture store makes it stand out. Imagine dread lurking in the corners of flat pack furniture, waiting to pounce, even as you chuckle.
Horrorstör is a unique blend of horror and humor. It is set in Orsk, an IKEA knockoff store. The employees come in one morning to discover the store in chaos and decide to stay overnight to find out what is causing the disruption. Prepared to find a practical jokester, they instead find a series of gruesome specters. This quirky situation gives way to comedic elements, while still delivering the punches of a true horror novel.
What readers like: Readers appreciate Hendrix's skill in blending humor and horror uniquely. They find a peculiar joy in the unusual setting of a horror story. The book is full of satiric takes on the labyrinthine nature of furniture stores, and these moments provide ample laughter. Yet, when the shadows lengthen, the creepy horror catches readers off guard - a particular thrill dedicated horror fans enjoy.
Check Price at Amazon
John Dies at the End
by David Wong
Why John Dies at the End is on this list: If you’re up for a wild roller coaster that’ll tickle your funny bone while sending chills down your spine, then this book has got you covered. Bridging the gap between horror and comedy, David Wong explores existential dread with hilarious, unexpected twists you won’t see coming.
This sure-to-be cult classic spins the tale of two college dropouts who get involved with a street drug known as Soy Sauce that sends users on a trip across time and dimensions. Strange and horrifying encounters with all manner of bizarre beings soon follow, and these lads try their best to save the day, hopefully without too much collateral damage. As you might have surmised, yes, John really does die at the end... or does he?
What readers like: Readers rave about the unpredictable plot and the introduction of wacky, weird elements that seem perfectly normal in the context of the story. They appreciate the sardonic humor juxtaposed with looming terror, making the book a seamless blend of laughter and goosebumps. And needless to say, the banter between the characters in the face of impending doom is at once relatable and chuckle-worthy!
Check Price at Amazon
Beauty Queens
by Libba Bray
Why Beauty Queens is on this list: If you're after a laugh-out-loud synonym of comedy horror, then 'Beauty Queens' by Libba Bray has got you covered. It’s a splendiferous blend of satire, absurdity and horror that will tickle your funny bone in ways you never expect.
Think Hunger Games meets Miss Universe, but wilder. The story follows a group of beauty pageant contestants who survive a plane crash and find themselves on a seemingly deserted island. As they attempt to keep their mascara intact and high heels from sinking into the sand, the beauty queens are not only haunted by survival, but also by some truly otherworldly and downright spooky beings. It's a madcap exploration of society's obsession with beauty and fame through the outrageous prism of comedy horror.
What readers like: Readers have praised the book for Bray's wacky sense of humor, the unexpected plot twists and the way it pushes against stereotypical boundaries. The book's comedy doesn't only lie in the situations, but also in the sassy dialogues and character quirks. Additionally, Bray's sharp satire on the beauty industry is enjoyed by many. Bookworms who like a good laugh with their horror will find 'Beauty Queens' an innovative and enjoyable ride.
Check Price at Amazon
Breathers: A Zombie's Lament
by S.G. Browne
Why Breathers: A Zombie's Lament is on this list: Mixing black humor with moments to make you squirm, 'Breathers: A Zombie's Lament' is a perfect fit for the comedy horror niche.
Here's one for the horror-comedy lovers. The book is about a regular guy who just happens to be a reanimated corpse. Life as a zombie is not what you expect. Browne funnily documents the unusual challenges Andy, the zombie faces as he tries to fit into the society. As much as you might flinch at the idea, there are hilarious accounts of support group meetings with the 'Zombies Anonymous' and even ... ugh... romance.
What readers like: Most readers have loved the protagonist's satirical perspective on zombiism from, believe it or not, a zombie's point of view. They applaud the author's skill of blending the macabre instances with sardonic humor. This is a terrific blend of horror and humor that is bound to make you laugh, even as you shudder. Expect twists you don't see coming and an ending that leaves you in titters.
Check Price at Amazon
Practical Demonkeeping
by Christopher Moore
Why Practical Demonkeeping is on this list: Ever wondered how to keep a demon as a pet? Well, this book cracks some rib-tickling jokes about it while scaring you in the craziest way possible.
In the hamlet of Pine Cove, a demon named Catch rides shotgun with Travis O'Hearn. The dynamic and darkly comedic duo have been together for a century. Here comes the twist: Travis wants to get rid of Catch, but he needs a mystic's help. What ensues is a blend of comedic horror that stitches together odd characters, demonic possession, and a hamburger joint where Catch finds easy prey.
What readers like: Readers have really dug this book for its zany characters, the blend of horror and comedy, and the unique, entertaining way in which Moore crafts and unravels his tales. And if the idea of a demon with a taste for fast food chuckles your funny bone, then this book is definitely for you.
Check Price at Amazon
World War Z
by Max Brooks
Why World War Z is on this list: If we're talking comedy horror books, 'World War Z' fits the bill perfectly. While it might not seem obvious initially, there's a fine layer of humor woven through this unnerving tale of the undead. It's horror with a side of snickers.
'World War Z' is about a zombie apocalypse, chronicled in an interview-style narration. It tells the stories of various survivors, from soldiers to politicians, who lived through the zombie nightmare. There are plenty of moments of dread and suspense, but there’s also a fair sprinkling of humor. So, no matter how grim things get, you'll still find yourself chuckling at the absurdity it all.
What readers like: Readers love 'World War Z' for its unique blend of horror, suspense, and comedy. The book approaches the zombie apocalypse from numerous perspectives, making the narrative rich and diverse. The underlying humor, often dark and ironic, adds a quirky and refreshing touch to the grim post-apocalypse setting. The humor doesn’t feel forced; instead, it lightens the mood naturally, adding to its charm.
Check Price at Amazon
Skulduggery Pleasant
by Derek Landy
Why Skulduggery Pleasant is on this list: Nestled comfortably in the realm of comedy horror, this riveting book is brimming with a cheeky dose of humor that dovetails brilliantly into the horror part of the narrative. It's quite the roller coaster, sending you spiraling from laughter into gasping in the space of a few lines.
In an extraordinary turn of events, a 12-year old girl Stephanie teams up with a detective, who, interestingly enough, is a skeleton. This odd yet charming detective, Skulduggery Pleasant, lures you into a magical universe teeming with vampires, monsters and ancient beings, while peppering the story with unbelievable sarcasm and wit like you've never seen. Or heard from a skeleton, certainly.
What readers like: Readers love the heady mix of humor and horror in Landy's unique storytelling. The whip-smart dialogue, the compelling relationship between Stephanie and Skulduggery, and the unexpectedly hilarious twists that punctuate the plot captivate audiences of all ages. Just keep a cushion nearby - to either muffle your laughter or hide behind during scary parts. Or, often times, both.
Check Price at Amazon
First Grave on the Right
by Darynda Jones
Why First Grave on the Right is on this list: First Grave on the Right expertly treads a delicate line between spooky and hilarious. This book is a perfect blend of wit and grim, sure to keep you chuckling to yourself, even in the face of the supernatural.
This riveting tale follows the life of Charlotte 'Charley' Davidson, who isn't your ordinary private investigator. Gifted, or cursed, with the ability to speak to the dead, she combines her day job with her role as the Grim Reaper. First Grave on the Right is an intriguing blend of crime-solving, mystery, humour and suspense, all knitted up with a good handful of horror.
What readers like: Readers have enjoyed the laugh-out-loud funny moments woven into the spooky narrative of this book. They love the quirky main character, Charley, who uses humor to navigate her interesting dual life. With unexpected twists and turns, it is both suspenseful for the thrill-seekers and hilarious for those who appreciate a good joke. Truly a read where the grim reaper has never been funnier.
Check Price at Amazon
Carpe Jugulum
by Terry Pratchett
Why Carpe Jugulum is on this list: Pratchett's Carpe Jugulum seamlessly stitches comedy and horror together. It's like stitching a spooky patch to a laugh-out-loud comedy quilt. It's just the right amount of hilarity laced with a little eerieness to get your adrenaline running while giggling uncontrollably.
In Carpe Jugulum, you'll tag along with the Discworld's beloved characters as they face a family of sophisticated and modern vampires that are impervious to garlic and mirrors. Are traditional methods failing? Could they possibly defeat these pesky creatures with a good laugh instead of a pointy stake? The entire tale is a hilarious spin on the classic vampire story, making it an engaging, blood-curdling, and chuckle-inducing read.
What readers like: Readers can't get enough of Pratchett's genius wordplay and witty satire, as well as his colorful reinvention of classic horror characters. Carpe Jugulum is also praised for its entertaining plot, uniquely humorous vampire lore, and the return of fan-favorite witch characters. If you like your horror interspersed with belly laughs and quirky characters, you're in for a treat.
Check Price at Amazon
