One of the crucial things I learned through the years I spent as a comedian is that Learning Never Ends — seriously, you’re doing it right now. There is a wealth of knowledge contained in books, so, in this article, I’m going to share FIVE more books that every comedian should read.
1. Comedy Bible
This book inspires every comedian and guides them from the basics, such as writing a joke, using a joke, and finding the right place to deliver a joke (there are more places to deliver a joke than just the stage). It gives a stand-up comedian, all of the base knowledge to enter into the world of stand-up.
Judy Carter is the author of the book, and she is an experienced and knowledgeable stand-up comedian and has guided countless comedians throughout the years. She not only writes about stand-up, either. Judy includes the pros and cons of various comedy fields, humor essays, stand-up comedian scripts, and many more. She says any person with a good sense of humor can read this book to start their comedy career.
William Knoedelseder’s biographical masterpiece. This book gives an insight into the world of stand-up in Los Angeles in the 1970s. William is a club reporter that tells the story of that comedy golden age, scenes in clubs, their haunted history, and how the comedians’ strike ended. It’s a tragic twist and is interesting to see how the comedians of old paved the way for the comedians of new.
3. Comic insights: Art of Stand-up Comedian
Franklin Ajaye wrote this book. Most comedians watch TV shows or ask advice from the experts to learn and start their careers. This book is the perfect guide to start a comedy career.
Comic Insights gives a collection of great advice from some of the leading stand-up comedy experts and big stars. Learn it directly from the masters.
David Sedaris is a talented humorist. His short stories are innovative and hilarious. The biggest lesson that the book teaches is the idea of finding comedy in literally every situation, and milking that comedy for every drop its worth. Stand-up isn’t the only place to deliver comedy, and this book demonstrates it. David would often tour, reading short stories from his book to many audiences.
Artie Lange is the author of this book. Artie has done a lot of film and was on TV. Artie has had a lot of trouble with drugs. In this book, he tells the reasons why he got so deep into drugs. His book recalls stories from his drug addiction to his fights with his mother.
Artie makes heavy stories funny and makes them into comedy classics. He speaks volumes of truth about life and how he overcame pain in his life. This book is a funny one with tragic twists and volumes of entertainment. If you crave comedy, this is the book for you.
Conclusion Books are excellent sources for us to get information and gain knowledge. Every comedian should read the books listed above to excel in their field. Reading books by comics enhances the readers’ comic skills and gives a clear idea of when and where to use comedy. Learn by seeing and then learn by doing.