If you’re looking for a reason to laugh, we have the perfect books for you. We’ve rounded up some of the funniest book characters from across various genres and stories. For whatever type of book you like, here’s one with a character that’s sure to make you laugh while reading.
The Martian by Andy Weir: Mark Watney
While getting stranded on Mars certainly isn’t a situation that lends itself to humor, Mark Watney makes it amusing nonetheless. As he struggles to deal with creating his own way of life on Mars, he has quite a few quips that’ll make you chuckle.
This all sounds like a great idea with no chance of catastrophic failure. That was sarcasm, by the way.
Andy Weir, The Martian
So if sarcastic humor is one of your favorites, Mary Watney is a character that you’ll certainly find hilarious.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger: Holden Caulfield
The Catcher in the Rye exclusively deals with Holden Caulfield’s thoughts as he runs away from home. And most of those thoughts are something controversial, blunt, or funny. With a dry sense of humor and a witty tone, there’s sure to be at least one joke within The Catcher in the Rye that’ll make you laugh.
And I have one of those very loud, stupid laughs. I mean if I ever sat behind myself in a movie or something, I’d probably lean over and tell myself to please shut up.
J.D. Salinger, The Catcher in the Rye
A lot of his humor is self-deprecating, and sometimes, that can make it all the more relatable to the reader.
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo: Jasper Fahey
If you’re a fan of magical heists and great character banter, almost everyone in Six of Crows is a bit humorous on occasion. But it’s hard to beat the jokes and quips of Jasper Fahey, sharpshooter extaordinaire and thief.
If any of you survive, make sure I have an open casket. The world deserves a few more moments with this face.
Leigh Bardugo, Six of Crows
Not only is Jasper Fenhey a great character, but he’s also an LGBTQ+ rep in a fantasy book. So all the more reason to add Six of Crows to your reading list. If you like snarky lines and risky magic, Jasper Fenhey’s humor in Six of Crows is unmatched.
The Witcher Series by Andrzej Sapkowski: Dandelion
For those who like amusing bards, Dandelion is the perfect character. Although he’s also known as Jaskier, which you may be more familiar with if you’ve watched the show rather than read the books. The Witcher series started as books but has since been adapted into both a TV show and a few video games. So no matter the type of content, you can find Dandelion and his amusing lines.
‘Now you’re lying, Dandelion.’
‘Not lying, just embellishing, and there’s a difference.’
Andrzej Sapkowski, Sword of Destiny
For fans of quippy bards with snark to match their songs, Dandelion is an amusing character that can certainly get you to smile.
A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab: Lila Bard
Despite her name, this isn’t another bard. Lila Bard is a notorious thief who gets wrapped up in a magical world. And while she might not be magical, that doesn’t stop her from joking with the magic users she meets.
‘I apologize for anything I might have done. I was not myself.’
‘I apologize for shooting you in the leg,’ said Lila. ‘I was myself entirely.’
V.E. Schwab, A Darker Shade of Magic
For readers who enjoy powerful female leads who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty, Lila is the perfect character. And she’s amusing while she’s at it.
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