For many adults, the idea of reading for fun feels foreign. Maybe school-assigned books that were difficult or uninteresting made reading feel like a chore rather than a pleasure.
Or perhaps life’s responsibilities make it seem like there’s no time for books, and when you finally pick one up, it feels overwhelming.
It’s a common misconception that reading is only for academics, intellectuals, or those with too much free time. In reality, reading can be a fun and accessible hobby for anyone, especially when humor is involved. A good laugh makes reading feel less like work and more like an enjoyable escape.
If you’ve ever wanted to read more but struggled to make it a habit, starting with humor is a great way to break the ice. Here’s how to make reading fun for struggling readers:
Why Reading Can Feel Difficult for Adults (And Why That’s Okay)
For many adults, picking up a book can feel intimidating for several reasons:
Lack of Time:
With work, family, and other commitments, reading often gets pushed to the bottom of the list.
Pressure to Read “Serious” Books:
Many people feel like they should be reading classics or complex novels, even if they don’t enjoy them.
Difficulty Staying Focused:
Unlike movies or TV shows, reading requires active engagement, which can be difficult after a long day.
Fear of Not Understanding Everything:
Some worry that they won’t “get” a book or that they aren’t reading it “correctly.”
The good news is that reading doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. The key is to make it enjoyable, and humor is a great way to do that.
How To Make Reading Fun For Struggling Readers With Humor?
Humor is a powerful tool for making reading a fun and effortless habit. Here’s why:
It Reduces Pressure:
When you’re laughing, you’re not overanalyzing or stressing about comprehension.
It Helps You Relax:
A funny book feels like entertainment rather than a task.
It Increases Engagement:
A humorous story keeps you turning the pages, making reading feel natural.
It Builds a Positive Association:
When reading is enjoyable, you’ll be more likely to return to it.
If you’re new to reading or trying to build the habit, starting with lighthearted and humorous books can make the process feel effortless.
How to Make Reading Fun with Humor
1. Create a Comfortable Reading Environment
A good reading experience starts with the right setting.
- Choose a Relaxing Space – Find a spot where you can focus, whether it’s a quiet room, a cozy chair, or even a café.
- Minimize Distractions – Silence notifications or choose a time when interruptions are less likely.
- Make It Enjoyable – Reading should be pleasant. A cup of tea, a blanket, or background music can help set the mood.
2. Start Small and Set Realistic Goals
Reading doesn’t have to mean long hours with a book.
- Begin with 10–15 minutes a day. Small, consistent reading sessions help build the habit without feeling overwhelming.
- Don’t force yourself to finish a book you’re not enjoying. If a book doesn’t hold your interest, move on to another one.
3. Choose Books That Are Fun and Engaging
Picking the right book is key to enjoying reading. Humor can make the experience more engaging, especially when starting out.
Lighthearted Fiction
Great for those who enjoy stories with engaging plots and witty characters.
- Authors to explore: Jenny Lawson, Christopher Moore, Sophie Kinsella, David Sedaris (for fiction-inspired humor).
- Why it works: Entertaining and easy to follow, with humor that keeps you engaged.
Funny Memoirs and Essays
A great option for those who enjoy real-life stories with humor.
- Authors to explore: David Sedaris, Tina Fey, Mindy Kaling, Samantha Irby.
- Why it works: These books feel conversational, like listening to a funny friend share stories.
Satire and Parody
Perfect for readers who enjoy humor with a bit of social commentary.
- Examples: A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole, anything by Terry Pratchett, The Onion articles.
- Why it works: A mix of humor and clever insights keeps reading both funny and thought-provoking.
Graphic Novels and Comics
A great way to ease into reading, especially for visual learners.
- Recommendations: Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh, Saga by Brian K. Vaughan & Fiona Staples, The Adventures of Tintin by Hergé.
- Why it works: Visual storytelling makes books feel more engaging and less intimidating.
Audiobooks: A Great Alternative
For those who struggle to find time to sit and read, audiobooks provide a flexible way to enjoy stories.
- Look for books narrated by comedians or engaging voice actors.
- Great for multitasking. Listen while commuting, exercising, or doing household chores.
Making Reading an Active and Enjoyable Experience
Once you’ve found a book, here’s how to make the reading process even more enjoyable:
- Take Breaks When Needed – Reading doesn’t have to be a long session. Short, enjoyable reading moments work just as well.
- Look Up Words If Necessary (But Don’t Overthink It) – If a joke or phrase doesn’t make sense, a quick search can help—but don’t get stuck on it.
- Share the Fun – Discuss books with friends, share funny passages, or join a book club.
- Keep a List of Books You Enjoy – Tracking books that make you laugh can help you find similar ones in the future.
How to Stay Consistent with Reading
Building a reading habit takes time, but it can become a natural part of your routine with a few simple strategies.
- Make Time for Reading
- Schedule it like any other activity. Even 10–15 minutes a day adds up.
- Pair it with an existing habit. Read while drinking coffee in the morning or before bed at night.
- Use a Reading Tracker (Optional)
- Apps like Goodreads or a simple journal can help you keep track of books you’ve read and discover new ones.
- However, don’t let tracking become stressful. The goal is enjoyment, not meeting a quota.
- Be Willing to Put Down Books That Don’t Work for You
- If a book isn’t enjoyable, move on. There’s no obligation to finish something that isn’t engaging.
- Experiment with different genres and styles until you find what works best.
Reading Should Be Fun, Not a Task
Reading is a skill and a habit that anyone can develop, and humor is one of the best ways to make it an enjoyable experience. Starting small, choosing lighthearted and engaging books, and making reading part of a relaxed routine can turn it into a rewarding hobby.
If you’ve struggled with reading in the past, consider giving it another try with a book that makes you laugh. A great story, a humorous memoir, or a clever satire can turn reading into something you genuinely look forward to.
What’s the funniest book you’ve ever read?
