Hilarious, Insightful, and Heartwarming Books by Female Comedians
In the world of comedy, few voices are as powerful, sharp, and entertaining as those of female comedians. Their unique perspectives and fearless humor have not only made us laugh but have also offered profound insights into life, identity, and the human experience. This article highlights seven books by some of the most hilarious and heartfelt women in comedy today. Each book, penned by a comedy powerhouse, is packed with sharp wit, laugh-out-loud moments, and heartwarming stories that delve into everything from the challenges of growing up to the complexities of fame and the everyday absurdities of life. Whether you’re looking for a good laugh or a dose of inspiration, these books by female comedians are sure to deliver both in spades.
In “Yeah, I Said It,” comedian Wanda Sykes brings her sharp wit and uncensored humor to the page in her first book, offering hilarious commentary on everything from sex and politics to celebrities and everyday life. Known for her stand-up, TV roles, and sports commentary, Sykes tackles topics like men’s obsession with football, the challenges women face, and the absurdities of modern culture with her trademark candor. Through a collection of irreverent essays, she delivers sidesplitting insights on the truth as she sees it, making this book a must-read for fans of her bold and unapologetic comedy.
In her candid and hilarious memoir, Leslie Jones takes readers on a wild ride through her life and career, sharing the highs, lows, and everything in between. Winner of the 2024 Audie Award for Humor and a New York Times bestseller, this book captures Leslie’s unmistakable voice and fearless spirit. From her childhood in the South to her early stand-up days, navigating the challenges of being a tall, outspoken Black woman in comedy, Leslie doesn’t hold back. She dishes on everything from her experiences on SNL and Ghostbusters to her time on Supermarket Sweep and The Daily Show. While some details might be fuzzy—she’s fifty-five and has smoked her share of weed—Leslie promises that the truth in these stories is as real as it gets. With her trademark humor and raw honesty, this memoir is a must-read for anyone who loves comedy and the powerful woman behind the laughter.
In her hilarious and insightful memoir, Anjelah Johnson-Reyes delves into the complexities of identity, belonging, and pursuing her childhood dreams of becoming both an actress and a chola. Known for her viral “Nail Salon” sketch and iconic MadTV character Bon Qui Qui, Anjelah’s clean humor and sharp storytelling have made her a standout in the world of comedy. Through funny and heartfelt stories, she shares her journey from a suburban kid with big hair to a devoted Christian, Oakland Raiders cheerleader, and ultimately a world-travelling comedian. Along the way, Anjelah navigates the challenges of racial identity, faith, and finding her place in the world, all while learning to balance her love for Jesus with the more playful sides of her personality. Her memoir encourages readers to embrace their true selves, chase their wildest dreams, and find meaning in the messiness of life.
In Wow, No Thank You., a #1 New York Times bestseller and Lambda Literary Award winner for Bisexual Nonfiction, Samantha Irby delivers another uproarious collection of essays that are as raw and edgy as they are laugh-out-loud funny. At forty, Irby finds herself navigating the awkwardness of middle age with the same irreverent humor that has made her a beloved voice in contemporary literature. Now living in a small-town, Blue oasis in a Red state, she juggles a new life filled with book clubs, home repairs, and mason jar salads, all while reflecting on her past as a cheese fry-loving, slightly damp Midwesterner. Whether she’s recounting bad dates with new friends or her misadventures in Hollywood, Irby’s essays capture the absurdity of everyday life with a brutally honest and hilariously relatable perspective. Wow, No Thank You. is Irby at her best—unflinching, riotous, and utterly real.