We all need a good laugh every now and then, but what we really love about comedians is their ability to take the ugly and make us chuckle about it. From culture, to politics, to parenthood and mental health, these headliners have us quietly gut-chuckling as we turn the page on their personal essay collections and memoirs.
Unreliable Narrator: Me, Myself, and Impostor Syndrome by Aparna Nancherla
Constantly pestered by things like depression (whom she calls “Brenda”), anxiety and self-doubt, Aparna Nancherla moves through life as a comedian, dragging her mental health baggage along for the ride. As she headlines and appears on late-night television, Nancherla grapples with the daunt of the spotlight, culture, body image and art in this can’t-miss collection of essays.
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Yes Please by Amy Poehler
From SNL alumna comes a collection of stories, insight and poetry that will keep you laughing as you see the world through the eyes of a beloved female comedian and actress. Featuring hilarious takes on her life, career and the future, this bestseller is an entry into the laugh out loud world of Amy Poehler.
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Bossypants by Tina Fey
Another daring force of Saturday Night Live, Tina Fey is a household name in comedy, but the hilarity isn’t only on screen. From the trials of motherhood, to the half-hearted pursuit of beauty, college romance and a treacherous honeymoon, readers get an inside look at the life of 30 Rock‘s star.
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Why Not Me? by Mindy Kaling
Mindy Kaling is not only a comedic star, she’s also become beloved in the book world. Running her own imprint and producing Amazon Original stories, she’s an A-lister in the Hollywood and publishing spheres. Her #1 New York Times bestseller Why Not Me? is the perfect entry point into her written work. With punchy hilarity regarding celebrity, the standards of Hollywood and her awkward relationship with her ex-boyfriend, she gets personal in a series of essays not to be missed.
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Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood by Trevor Noah
When the host of The Daily Show was born to a white Swiss father and his black Xhosa mother, his birth represented a crime in South Africa’s apartheid state. Kept hidden away to shield the crime, Noah lived an early life dictated by his mother’s fear of what would happen should he be discovered. As he grew into the young man whose name would one day be known all over the world, his interactions were both hilarious and harrowing.
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Leslie F*cking Jones by Leslie Jones
She has become a household name going from SNL to Ghostbusters and Leslie Jones has stories to tell. From growing up in the South to sketchy comedy gigs all over the country, Jones recounts her life that has led her to this point and discusses holding onto her worth in an industry always looking to take advantage.
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Hello, Molly!: A Memoir by Molly Shannon
When people think of Molly Shannon they often think of “Superstar” and her many other quirky catchphrases and roles over the years. But her path to comedic fame was one initiated by tragedy. At four, her mother, sister and cousin died in a car accident while her father was driving. He fostered her gifts, but understandably struggled to raise children in the wake of such an event. Balancing between heart-wrenching personal stories and behind-the-scenes looks at her times with Adam Sandler, Will Ferrel and others, this memoir takes a deep look at the whole person.
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Dear Girls: Intimate Tales, Untold Secrets & Advice for Living Your Best Life by Ali Wong
If you were obsessed with the show Beef or Ali Wong’s outrageous comedy specials, then you have to add this book to your entertainment lineup. In a series of stories addressed to her daughters, Wong uses her razor sharp observation to send a message to her girls and all women about the reality of life, love and, of course, parenting.
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Believe Me: A Memoir of Love, Death, and Jazz Chickens by Eddie Izzard
Eddie/Suzy Izzard has developed a vast community of fans with smart, surreal comedy. In this memoir childhood memories, comedy, alternative sexuality and, yes, jazz chickens, are all covered.
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Comedy Comedy Comedy Drama: A Memoir by Bob Odenkirk
Bob Odenkirk did his time in the sketchy comedy clubs, he worked in the trenches as a writer on Saturday Night Live and then was on a slew of sketch shows. Known for his bullheadedness in show business, his career took an unexpected turn when he got the call for Breaking Bad, a dramatic turn and role he didn’t expect. Finally, becoming an action-star, Odenkirk talks all the highs and lows of his unusual trip to the top.
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Need more laughs? Check out the Most Anticipated Humor Books of Fall 2023 >>
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