Hilarious Reads: Unearthing the Best Comedy Autobiographies

Right then, fancy a good chuckle? Sometimes you just need a book that doesn't take itself too seriously. We're talking about those brilliant comedy autobiographies that spill the beans on life with a healthy dose of humour. Forget dry historical accounts; these are the real deal, packed with witty observations and laugh-out-loud moments. If you're on the hunt for some top-notch funny reads, you've come to the right place. Let's unearth some gems!

Key Takeaways

• Mel Brooks' 'All About Me!' offers a hilarious look at his legendary career, filled with anecdotes that had him and his crew in stitches during filming.

• Robin Ince's 'Bad Book Club' is a treasure trove for anyone who enjoys the absurd, diving into the world's worst books, from celebrity memoirs to bizarre romance novels.

• 'Everybody Loves Phil!' by Phil Rosenthal gives an inside look at the making of 'Everybody Loves Raymond', showing how family chaos fuelled the show's success.

• The collection highlights a variety of comedy autobiographies, covering different eras and styles of humour, from film legends to television writers.

• These books prove that real life, with all its quirks and oddities, provides endless material for genuinely funny and engaging comedy autobiographies.

1. All About Me!

Mel Brooks’ memoir, "All About Me!", is exactly what you’d expect from the man behind Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein. It’s a sprawling, hilarious look back at a career that spans more than seventy years, touching on his childhood in Brooklyn, his wartime experiences, and his early days in the Borscht Belt. But mostly, it’s about the show business – the films, the TV shows, and that absolutely legendary Broadway run of The Producers.

You’ll find yourself chuckling out loud on pretty much every page. It’s not just a dry recounting of events; Brooks injects his signature wit and energy into every anecdote. He’s got a way of telling stories that makes you feel like you’re right there with him, whether he’s describing a chaotic film set or a triumphant opening night.

Here’s a little taste of what you can expect:

• Early life and influences in Brooklyn.

• His time serving in World War II.

• The creation and success of his most famous works.

• Reflections on a career that has earned him numerous awards.

It’s a book that celebrates a life lived large and loud, filled with creative genius and plenty of laughs. It really does feel like a conversation with a comedy legend.

This book isn't just a chronological list of achievements; it's a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of Brooks' unique perspective. He manages to be both incredibly funny and surprisingly insightful about the creative process and the sheer hard work that goes into making people laugh.

If you’re a fan of Mel Brooks, or just enjoy a good laugh and a story about the entertainment industry, this is definitely one to pick up. It’s a testament to a career that has brought so much joy to so many people.

2. Robin Ince's Bad Book Club

Right then, let's talk about Robin Ince's "Bad Book Club". If you've ever found yourself rummaging through a charity shop, drawn in by a title so bizarre it practically screams for attention, then this book is probably for you. Ince, a comedian known for his sharp wit, takes us on a tour of the literary underbelly – the books you definitely won't find on the bestseller lists. We're talking about the kind of titles that make you question the sanity of publishers, let alone authors.

He's got a knack for unearthing gems (or perhaps more accurately, interesting rocks) from the dusty corners of secondhand bookshops. Think celebrity autobiographies from people you've never heard of but who possess egos the size of small planets, peculiar guides to animal care, and, of course, those infamous 'how-to' manuals for men trying to impress women. It’s a real deep dive into the esoteric and the downright odd.

What makes this book work so well is Ince's voice. He’s not just listing these strange finds; he’s dissecting them with a blend of genuine curiosity and outright amusement. He’s managed to turn his passion for these forgotten tomes into a genuinely funny read. It’s a celebration of the wonderfully weird corners of the written word.

Here's a taste of what you might find within its pages:

• Celebrity memoirs with inflated senses of self-importance.

• Outdated self-help books that offer questionable advice.

• Specialist guides on niche topics you never knew existed.

• Books that seem to have been written purely by accident.

You'll find yourself chuckling at the sheer audacity of some of these publications. It’s a reminder that literature comes in all shapes and sizes, and sometimes, the most entertaining stories aren't the ones that win awards, but the ones that make you wonder 'why?'.

3. Everybody Loves Phil!

Phil Rosenthal's autobiography, "You're Lucky You're Funny: How Life Becomes a Sitcom", is a real treat. It's not just for fans of the show "Everybody Loves Raymond", though that's certainly a big part of it. Rosenthal takes you behind the scenes of one of TV's most beloved comedies, sharing the stories and the family quirks that fuelled its success. The book really shows how personal experiences can be turned into something universally funny.

Rosenthal has a knack for storytelling, making even the mundane moments of his life sound engaging. He talks about his journey from a regular guy to a television producer, and how his family, with all their eccentricities, became the inspiration for the show. It’s a look at how life itself can be the best sitcom.

Here are a few things that make this book stand out:

• The honest portrayal of family dynamics – relatable, even if yours isn't quite as dramatic.

• Insights into the creative process of making a hit TV show.

• A genuine sense of humour that runs through every chapter.

It’s a reminder that sometimes, the funniest stories are the ones closest to home. If you're looking for a read that's both funny and heartwarming, this is definitely one to pick up. You can find out more about Phil Rosenthal's journey here.

The book offers a unique perspective on how everyday life, with all its ups and downs, can be transformed into brilliant comedy. It’s a testament to the power of observation and a good dose of family chaos.

4. Funny Man

Mel Brooks' life story, as told in "Funny Man" by Patrick McGilligan, is a masterclass in turning adversity into comedy gold. It’s not just a look at a comedian; it’s a deep dive into the mind of a creative force who shaped modern humour. From his early days in Brooklyn to his groundbreaking work in film and television, Brooks’ journey is packed with the kind of stories that make you laugh out loud and then pause to think about the sheer brilliance behind it all.

This book really gets into how Brooks used his experiences, both good and bad, to fuel his unique brand of satire. It covers his time in the army during World War II, his early writing career, and the development of his iconic characters and films like "The Producers" and "Blazing Saddles".

Here's a glimpse into what makes this book so engaging:

• Early Life and Influences: Discover the roots of Brooks' comedic genius, shaped by his family, his neighbourhood, and the broader cultural landscape of his youth.

• The Television Era: Explore his significant contributions to television, including his work on "Your Show of Shows" and the creation of "Get Smart".

• Filmmaking Triumphs: Delve into the making of his most famous movies, understanding the creative process and the risks he took.

• Broadway Success: Learn about his ventures into theatre, particularly the phenomenal success of "The Producers" as a musical.

The book doesn't shy away from the challenges Brooks faced, showing how he navigated the often-difficult world of entertainment with wit and resilience. It’s a testament to his enduring spirit and his ability to find humour in almost any situation.

For anyone who appreciates sharp wit, clever storytelling, and a look behind the curtain of comedy legend, "Funny Man" is an absolute must-read. It’s more than just a biography; it’s an education in how to be funny, and how to be successful doing it.

5. The Book Club

Right then, let's talk about Robin Ince's 'Bad Book Club'. Now, this isn't your typical 'sit back with a cuppa and a nice novel' kind of read. Instead, Ince, a comedian I've seen live a few times and always found pretty sharp, has gone on a mission. He's been rummaging through charity shops, car boot sales, and even, I kid you not, skips, to find the absolute worst books out there. And honestly, some of them are so bad they're brilliant.

He covers a real mix, from celebrity autobiographies that probably shouldn't have seen the light of day, to romance novels with some truly bizarre themes. We're talking equine romance (yes, really) and even guides on picking up women that sound like they belong in a museum of questionable advice. It's a bit like a treasure hunt, but instead of gold, you're finding literary dross that makes you chuckle.

The real joy here is seeing how Ince dissects these literary disasters with a comedian's eye for the absurd. He doesn't just dismiss them; he dives in, pointing out the ghastly prose, the baffling plot points, and the sheer audacity of some of these authors. It’s a fascinating look at what makes a book truly 'bad', and why sometimes, that's exactly what we need for a laugh.

Here's a little taste of what you might find lurking within its pages:

• Celebrity autobiographies that are more ego than insight.

• Self-help books that offer advice you'd be mad to follow.

• Romance novels with subjects that are, shall we say, niche.

• Guides to dating that are hilariously out of touch.

It's a book that celebrates the wonderfully awful, and if you've ever found yourself chuckling at a truly terrible turn of phrase in a second-hand book, then this is definitely for you. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best comedy isn't written on purpose. You can find out more about The Book Club for Troublesome Women if you fancy a different kind of book club experience.

This book is a testament to the fact that even the most misguided literary efforts can provide a good laugh. It’s a celebration of the unintentionally funny, the bizarre, and the downright strange that lurks on the shelves of second-hand bookshops.

It’s the sort of book that makes you want to go on your own charity shop crawl, just to see what terrible treasures you can unearth. Just don't blame me if you come back with a skip-load of questionable reads.

6. The Secrets Of Picking Up Sexy Girls

Nell Scovell's memoir, "The Secrets Of Picking Up Sexy Girls... And a Few Hard Truths About Sneaking Into the Hollywood Boys’ Club," is a sharp, funny look at navigating the often-unwritten rules of the entertainment industry. It's not really about picking up girls, as the title might playfully suggest, but more about the author's experiences as a woman trying to make her way in a male-dominated world.

Scovell recounts her early days, starting out as a writer for The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. She details the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways she had to adapt and prove herself. It’s a fascinating insight into the dynamics of a writers' room back in the day.

Here are a few things she had to deal with:

• Being the only woman in a room full of men.

• Having her jokes sometimes ignored until a male colleague repeated them.

• Learning to speak up and hold her own, even when it felt intimidating.

• Dealing with the expectations and assumptions that came with being a woman in that environment.

The book really shines when Scovell uses humour to disarm potentially awkward or uncomfortable situations. She doesn't shy away from the sexism she encountered, but she tackles it with wit rather than bitterness. It makes for a really engaging read, even when she's discussing some pretty serious stuff.

It's a testament to her skill that she managed to carve out a successful career in such a challenging space. The book offers a candid look at the compromises and the sheer hard work involved, all delivered with a self-deprecating charm that makes you root for her every step of the way.

7. Diamond Stud

Right then, let's talk about 'Monkey Business'. This one's a bit of a wild ride, straight from the heart of Wall Street. Authors John Rolfe and Peter Troob, fresh out of business school, decided to jump headfirst into the world of investment banking. And what a world it is, apparently.

They paint a picture of a place where the 'promised land' is always just around the corner, usually after another 20-hour workday or a trip to a lap dancing club. It sounds less like a career and more like a dare. They went in, saw the madness, and somehow managed to escape with their sanity and this book.

It’s a look behind the curtain at Donaldson, Lufkin and Jenrette, showing what life is really like for those climbing the corporate ladder in finance. It’s not all spreadsheets and power suits, that’s for sure.

The book pulls back the curtain on the often-unseen realities of investment banking, revealing a culture driven by long hours and a relentless pursuit of success, often blurring the lines between professional ambition and personal indulgence.

Here's a little peek at what people thought:

• Overall Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (based on 25 ratings)

• Story Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (based on 7 ratings)

• Performance Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (based on 7 ratings)

It seems like the readers really connected with the story and how it was told. If you've ever wondered what goes on behind the closed doors of a major investment bank, this might be the book for you.

8. Sign Of The Speculum

Right then, let's talk about 'Sign Of The Speculum'. This one's a bit of a curveball in the comedy autobiography world, isn't it? It's not your typical 'my life is a series of hilarious mishaps' kind of book. Instead, it tackles some pretty serious stuff, like health issues, but with a healthy dose of gallows humour.

It’s a testament to the human spirit's ability to find a laugh even when things get really tough. The author doesn't shy away from the nitty-gritty, the awkward moments, or the sheer terror that can come with medical procedures. It’s raw, it’s honest, and surprisingly, it’s often very funny.

Here's a bit of what you can expect:

• The initial shock and disbelief.

• The endless appointments and tests.

• The bizarre conversations with medical professionals.

• The unexpected moments of dark humour that get you through.

• Learning to live with a new normal.

It’s the sort of book that makes you appreciate the little things and perhaps even chuckle at the absurdity of it all. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest of times, a bit of wit can go a long way. Definitely one for those who like their comedy with a side of reality, and a good dollop of British stoicism.

Sometimes, the most profound humour comes from facing the things we're most afraid of. This book doesn't pretend everything is rosy, but it does show that laughter can be a powerful coping mechanism. It’s about finding the light in the shadows, even if that light is a bit of a nervous giggle.

9. It Ain't Half Hot Mum

This one's a bit of a curveball, but stick with me. It's not about the old TV show, though that was a laugh, was it? This is actually about Jenny Pentland, daughter of the legendary Roseanne Barr. Growing up, Jenny's life was pretty much the inspiration for her mum's massive sitcom, Roseanne. Imagine that – your childhood drama being turned into prime-time telly!

Pentland's book, I Used to Be a Human Being, is a really honest look at her life. It covers everything from the chaos of her upbringing to her own struggles and triumphs. It’s not just about the Roseanne connection, though that’s a big part of it. She talks about finding her own voice and figuring out who she is away from the shadow of her famous mum and the show.

It’s a proper deep dive into family dynamics, fame, and the messy business of growing up. You get a real sense of what it was like to be a kid whose home life was basically a TV set. It’s funny in places, sure, but it’s also quite moving.

Here’s a little peek at what she covers:

• The early days and how her family life shaped the Roseanne show.

• Her own journey through adolescence and young adulthood.

• Dealing with the pressures of a famous family.

• Finding her own path and identity.

It’s a brilliant read for anyone who’s ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of a famous family, or just fancies a story that’s both hilarious and heartfelt.

You get the feeling that Pentland is telling it like it is, no holding back. It’s raw and real, and that’s what makes it so good.

10. The Elephant Man

Right then, let's talk about 'The Elephant Man'. Now, this isn't your typical laugh-a-minute autobiography, but it certainly has its moments of dark humour and peculiar observations. It's narrated by Eric Tansey, and the audiobook clocks in at a solid 10 hours and 40 minutes, released back on the 26th of August 2025.

This book seems to be a bit of a deep dive into the unusual, perhaps even the downright bizarre. From what I can gather, it’s less about the author's personal life and more about a collection of strange stories and characters they've encountered. Think of it as a curated journey through the odd corners of life, presented with a dry wit that might catch you off guard.

Here's a little taste of what you might find:

• Unusual encounters with people.

• Stories that make you question reality.

• A unique perspective on everyday life.

It's the kind of read that sticks with you, not because it's overtly hilarious, but because it's so wonderfully strange. It’s got a 5-star rating from one reviewer, which is pretty impressive, suggesting it really hits the mark for those who appreciate the peculiar.

This book is a journey into the wonderfully weird. It’s not about punchlines, but about the quiet amusement found in the unexpected. It’s a reminder that life itself can be the funniest, strangest story of all.

So, What's the Punchline?

Right then, we've had a good old rummage through some proper funny life stories. From the sheer absurdity of finding the world's worst books to the behind-the-scenes antics of making telly magic, these autobiographies prove that real life can be just as hilarious as any stand-up routine. They're not just books; they're a reminder that even the most ordinary (or extraordinary!) lives are packed with moments that make you snort your tea out. So, next time you're after a good laugh, skip the usual stuff and pick up one of these. You might just find your next favourite read, and honestly, who doesn't need more of that?

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a comedy autobiography so funny?

Comedy autobiographies are great because they let you peek into the funny, and sometimes weird, lives of comedians. They often share embarrassing stories, hilarious observations about everyday life, and the crazy things that happened on their journey to becoming famous. It's like having a chat with your funniest mate, but they've also written a book about it!

Are these books suitable for younger readers?

Most comedy autobiographies are written for adults, so they might include grown-up jokes or topics. It's always a good idea to check the age recommendations or have a quick look inside to see if the humour and content are right for you.

Can you recommend a good starting point for someone new to comedy autobiographies?

If you're just starting out, a book like Mel Brooks' 'All About Me!' could be a brilliant choice. He's a legend of comedy, and his life story is packed with jokes and behind-the-scenes tales from his famous films. It's a real laugh from start to finish.

What's the deal with books about 'bad' books?

Some comedians, like Robin Ince, have written books about the most hilariously awful books they've found. They go through terrible writing, bizarre stories, and just generally awful ideas that somehow got published. It's funny because it makes you realise how bad some books can be, and it's a great way to have a laugh without actually having to read them yourself!

Do these books only feature comedians?

While many comedy autobiographies are by comedians, you can also find hilarious stories from actors, TV presenters, and other famous people who just have a knack for telling a good joke. The key is that they can make you laugh about their life experiences.

Where can I find these funny books?

You can usually find these books in most bookshops, both online and on the high street. Charity shops and second-hand book stores are also fantastic places to hunt for hidden gems, especially if you're looking for older or more unusual comedy memoirs.