Nonfiction
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PUBLISHED
© 2026
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x, 258 pages : illustrations ; 22 cm
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Introduction: The funniest person I've ever met -- The first pillar : being present : noticing that the world is filled with absurdity -- The second pillar : laughing at yourself : noticing the absurdity and weirdness inside yourself -- The third pillar : taking social risks : being willing to be laughed at -- The math of comedy : the practical logistics of making things funny -- Becoming magnetic : humor for social connections -- Inside jokes with Abe Lincoln : humor to form group identities -- The second-best medicine : laughter's role in healing and medicine -- More exciting than "eureka!" : humor as innovation -- Punching up : humor as a driver of social change -- Laughing and crying : humor's role in grief and resilience -- The only thing worse than no sense of humor : how to avoid bad jokes, bullying, and the dark side -- Conclusion: The second funniest-person I've ever met : what does a life filled with humor look like?
Chris Duffy, a comedy writer and podcast host, examines the role of humor in personal well-being, creativity, and social connection. Drawing on personal experiences, including his time as a schoolteacher, as well as observations from comedy, psychology, and the social sciences, Duffy explores how humor can be developed as a skill rather than treated as an innate trait. The book combines autobiographical anecdotes with practical guidance on recognizing humor in everyday situations, taking social risks to foster connection, and using comedic principles to navigate challenges. It presents humor as a tool for resilience, communication, and self-reflection in contemporary life