While I’m all for reading emotionally powerful and occasionally heartbreaking stories, sometimes your book club might be in the mood for a more light-hearted story. And there’s nothing wrong with that! In this list, I’m sharing some of the best feel-good and hilariously funny book club books that everyone will love.
Light-Hearted & Funny Book Club Books
From cozy mystery books to contemporary fiction, these feel-good books feature hilarious antics and characters you can’t help but love.
You’ll have a blast discussing your favorite parts with your book club! (Here are some helpful book club questions to help fuel your discussion.)
These stories are still emotionally resonant, but they stick to lighter themes and tend to be more heartwarming than heartbreaking. And they’ll probably make you laugh out loud!
Without further ado, here are the best light-hearted and funny book club books to read and discuss. 🙂
You might also enjoy these best 2024 book club books or these must-read 2023 book club books!
The Maid by Nita Prose
Genre: Cozy Mystery
The Maid is like a cross between Clue, Eleanor Oliphant, and a modern Agatha Christie novel.
It’s about a woman named Molly who works as a maid in a fancy hotel. She has trouble understanding social cues, and lives her life by the teachings of her beloved Gran.
But things take a turn when she finds a man dead in his room, and she becomes involved in a murder investigation.
This is a fun and cozy locked-room mystery with a unique, lovable protagonist! Molly the maid is a wonderful character that’s easy to root for.
I really enjoyed this book, and I highly recommend it if you’re looking for a lighthearted mystery! (Here’s a guide to The Maid series, including the sequel!)
Good Material by Dolly Alderton
Genre: Contemporary Fiction/Humor/Literary Fiction
This story is about a young man named Andy – who hasn’t quite grown up – as he grapples with heartbreak.
He believes that if he can figure out why his relationship ended in disaster, he can get his life back on track.
As with every Dolly book I’ve read, I laughed out loud multiple times! Don’t go into this expecting a high-octane plot – it’s more of a character study that’s especially perfect for those in their 30s (but can definitely be enjoyed by other generations, too).
While Andy could be slightly insufferable at times (which I think was sort of the point), the story as a whole was quietly absorbing and hilarious.
Publication date: January 30th, 2024 (in the U.S.)
The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy/Romance/LGBT
This heartwarming novel follows Linus Baker, a rule-following caseworker who’s been assigned to investigate an orphanage for magical children located on a small island.
But the orphanage’s enigmatic caretaker – and the six potentially dangerous children that reside there – might just change his outlook on life.
This cozy fantasy story is threaded with magic, warmth, and witty humor, with a setting that’s mostly grounded in the real world and a wildly unique cast of characters.
It was one of my favorite reads of 2020, and I highly recommend it (even if you’re not usually a fantasy reader)!
If you loved this book, be sure to check out Legends and Lattes – it’s a cozy fantasy with a similar vibe!
The Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise by Colleen Oakley
Genre: Contemporary Fiction/Mystery
A feisty elderly woman and her aimless 21-year old caretaker – who seem to have nothing in common – take a sudden road trip together, embarking on what may become the biggest adventure of their lives.
This story is filled with quirky humor, healing, and an unlikely friendship that will warm your heart.
Finlay Donovan Is Killing It by Elle Cosimano
Genre: Mystery/Contemporary Fiction
This book follows Finlay Donovan, a struggling writer and mother of two who’s dreading an impending custody battle with her cheating ex-husband.
While discussing her latest book project with her agent at a Panera, a woman sitting nearby mistakes Finlay for a contract killer. That’s when things really take a turn for Finlay and her nanny/friend, Vero.
This is a highly entertaining, laugh-out-loud mystery with fully-formed characters and hints of romance. Definitely recommended!
Lies and Weddings by Kevin Kwan
Genre: Contemporary Fiction/Romance
If you loved Crazy Rich Asians, get excited, because Kevin Kwan is back with another laugh-out-loud novel filled with outrageous hijinks and juicy drama!
An eligible bachelor – a duke no less – arrives at a luxury eco-resort for his sister’s wedding. Secretly in debt, he must decide who he wants to marry. Will it be an heiress whose money can save his family, or the girl next door he’s been crushing on?
Publication date: May 21st, 2024
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
This heartwarming story is a perfect funny novel for book clubs! It’s about a quirky genetics professor who struggles with social normalities. He’s never been on a second date. In fact, he’s not sure if he’s capable of love.
He sets out to find out once and for all, starting what he calls The Wife Project – looking for his perfect match. Of course, things don’t quite go according to plan.
Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe
Genre: Literary/Contemporary Fiction
This humorous story follows a young woman as she grapples with adulthood, becoming a new (single) mother, and keeping herself afloat financially.
At twenty, she’s alone with a baby, doesn’t have a job, and is about to be evicted. Out of desperation, she starts an OnlyFans account, and it actually takes off. But will her success last, or is her newfound online fame too good to be true?
Publication date: June 11th, 2024
Anxious People by Fredrik Backman
Genre: Contemporary Fiction/Mystery
This darkly humorous story is centered around a group of people (and a would-be bank robber) trapped in an apartment building during a hostage situation, and the policemen who are determined to figure out what’s going on.
Except, the situation isn’t quite what you think it is.
Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto
Order on Amazon | Support local bookstores
One day, sixty-year-old tea shop owner Vera Wong finds a dead body in her shop.
She’s got some extra time on her hands and is determined to hunt down the killer herself. What could go wrong?
(Jesse Q. Sutanto’s funny contemporary murder mystery set at a wedding – Dial A For Aunties – is also a great choice!).
I hope you enjoy these heartwarming and funny book club books! Has your book club read any books that made you laugh? Feel free to share them in the comments. 🙂