The Greatest Canadian, Scottish, Irish "Humor, Fiction" Books Since 1950
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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.
Genres
Humor is a category of books that is characterized by its ability to make readers laugh or feel amused. These books often contain witty dialogue, clever wordplay, and humorous situations that are designed to entertain and delight readers. Humor can be found in a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and graphic novels, and can range from light-hearted and silly to dark and satirical. Whether you're looking for a quick laugh or a more in-depth exploration of the human condition through humor, there is something for everyone in the world of humorous books.
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Reading Statistics
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1. The Van by Roddy Doyle
The Van is a humorous and touching tale of two friends in Dublin, Ireland, who decide to start a fish and chips van business during the 1990 World Cup. The book explores their trials and tribulations as they navigate the unpredictable world of small business, all against the backdrop of Ireland's football frenzy. Their friendship is tested as they experience the highs and lows of their venture, providing an insightful and entertaining look at the human condition.
The 2185th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. The Commitments by Roddy Doyle
"The Commitments" is a humorous and uplifting tale set in the working-class Northside of Dublin, Ireland. The story follows a group of young, passionate individuals who form a soul band, despite their limited musical experience. The band, managed by two ambitious music enthusiasts, navigates the highs and lows of the music industry, dealing with personal conflicts, romantic entanglements, and the challenges of finding their sound. The book offers a raw and honest perspective on music, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams.
The 2403rd Greatest Book of All Time -
3. Puckoon by Spike Milligan
This comedic novel is set in 1924, revolving around the fictional Irish village of Puckoon. The story unfolds in a chaotic and humorous manner when the Boundary Commission, tasked with dividing Ireland, carelessly draws the new border straight through the village, splitting it between Northern Ireland and the Republic. The absurdity of the situation is amplified by the eccentric characters, including the protagonist Dan Milligan, who find themselves grappling with the ludicrous consequences of this division. The narrative is filled with witty dialogue, slapstick humor, and satirical takes on politics and nationalism, showcasing the author's unique comedic style and critique of bureaucracy and the absurdities of geopolitical divisions.
The 4162nd Greatest Book of All Time -
4. The Ginger Man by J. P. Donleavy
"The Ginger Man" is a novel that follows the exploits of Sebastian Dangerfield, a young American studying law in post-World War II Dublin. Dangerfield is a heavy-drinking, womanizing, and irresponsible character who constantly finds himself in trouble due to his reckless behavior. Despite his flaws, he is a charismatic and compelling character who navigates life with a unique blend of humor and cynicism. The book provides a vivid depiction of bohemian life in mid-20th century Dublin, with its struggles and joys.
The 4932nd Greatest Book of All Time -
5. St. Urbain's Horseman by Mordecai Richler
The novel revolves around a Canadian filmmaker living in London, grappling with a midlife crisis, a complex web of familial relationships, and the burden of his cultural identity. As he navigates through personal and professional challenges, he is haunted by the figure of the "Horseman," a symbol of moral judgment and a reminder of his own shortcomings. The protagonist's journey is interwoven with flashbacks to his childhood in Montreal, where the influence of his larger-than-life cousin and the vibrant Jewish community of St. Urbain Street shape his worldview. The narrative explores themes of guilt, the search for redemption, and the struggle to reconcile one's ambitions with the expectations of society and family.
The 5969th Greatest Book of All Time -
6. The Snapper by Roddy Doyle
The book is a humorous and poignant exploration of working-class Dublin life through the story of a young woman who becomes pregnant after a drunken night out. The narrative unfolds as she and her large, boisterous family come to terms with the impending arrival of the baby, referred to affectionately as "the snapper." The novel delves into themes of family dynamics, societal expectations, and the strength of community bonds as the protagonist navigates her pregnancy with resilience and the support of her endearingly flawed family. The story is celebrated for its authentic dialogue, rich characterization, and the warmth and wit with which it addresses serious issues.
The 6922nd Greatest Book of All Time -
7. Scott Pilgrim's Precious Little Life by Bryan Lee O'Malley
The graphic novel follows the life of a slacker and part-time musician, Scott Pilgrim, who falls for an enigmatic American delivery girl named Ramona Flowers. However, to win her heart, Scott must defeat her seven evil exes in a series of surreal video game-inspired battles. Set in Toronto, Canada, the story combines elements of romance, comedy, and fantasy, as Scott navigates the complexities of relationships, self-identity, and adulthood, all while showcasing the unique visual style and cultural references that have made the series a cult favorite.
The 6958th Greatest Book of All Time -
8. The Sisters Brothers by Patrick DeWitt
The book is a darkly comic, Western-inspired tale that follows the notorious sibling hitmen, Eli and Charlie Sisters, as they journey through the American frontier during the 1850s Gold Rush. Tasked with killing a prospector who has allegedly stolen from their employer, the brothers grapple with a series of increasingly bizarre and violent encounters. Along the way, Eli, the more introspective of the two, begins to question their life of crime and contemplates a different future, reflecting on themes of brotherhood, redemption, and the elusive nature of the American Dream.
The 9738th Greatest Book of All Time -
9. Based On A True Story by Norm Macdonald
The book is a memoir that blends fact with fiction, offering a comedic and surreal account of the life of a well-known comedian and former "Saturday Night Live" cast member. It delves into his upbringing in Canada, his rise to fame, and his experiences in the world of comedy, all while playing fast and loose with the truth. The narrative is filled with the author's trademark wit and deadpan humor, as he recounts stories of gambling, the pitfalls of celebrity, and his own unique perspective on life, often questioning the nature of storytelling and the reliability of memory itself.
The 10498th Greatest Book of All Time -
10. Swing Hammer Swing! by Jeff Torrington
The narrative is set in the 1960s in Glasgow, Scotland, and follows the life of a young man named Thomas Clay. Clay is an aspiring writer who is struggling with writer's block while dealing with the impending birth of his first child, the destruction of his tenement building, and his wife's hospitalization. The novel provides a humorous and poignant look at the hardships of urban life, the complexities of personal relationships, and the struggle for artistic expression amid the chaos of everyday existence.
The 10894th Greatest Book of All Time
Reading Statistics
Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!
Download
If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.
Download