The Comedy Bible: From Stand-Up to Sitcom: The Comedy Writer's Ultimate How-To
by Judy Carter

If you've got a sense of humor, you can learn to make a career out of comedy, says Judy Carter. Whether it's creating a killer stand-up act, writing a spec sitcom, or providing jokes for radio or one-liners for greeting cards, Carter provides step-by-step instructions in The Comedy Bible. She helps readers first determine which genre of comedy writing or performing suits them best and then directs them in developing, refining, and selling their work. Read more

How to Be a Working Comic: An Insider's Guide to a Career in Stand-Up Comedy
by Dave Schwensen

This truly funny book about being funny is also a serious guide to the business of laughter and how to make it pay off. New York and Los Angeles Talent Coordinator Dave Schwensen shows how to get onstage experience and contact bookers, agents, and managers. Read more

Zen and the Art of Stand-Up Comedy
by Jay Sankey

The sound of one hand clapping may be the performer's worst nightmare. In this engaging and disarmingly frank book, comic Jay Sankey spills the beans, explaining not only how to write and perform stand-up comedy, but how to improve an perfect your work. This unique insider's look explores the finer points of stand-up comedy, including sources for ideas and writing the jokes; taking the stage, delivery and timing; dealing with nerves; breaking in new material;relating to the audience; marketing and self-promotion; and much more. Sankey enriches the understanding of anyone who is thinking about a career in this profession. Much more than a how-to manual, Zen an the Art of Stand-Up Comedy is the most detailed and comprehensive book on the topic to date. It is an invaluabl reference tool for amateurs and professionals, a thought-provoking look at performance art, and a source of inspiration for anyone seeking artistic growth. Read more

Comedy Writing (Teach Yourself)
by Jenny Roche

Whether you are a beginner or you want to improve or diversify your comedy writing, this book takes you through every stage of the process - from creating ideas and learning the craft, to marketing your material and understanding the business of being a comedy writer. Exercises are included throughout to help you with your technique. Read more

Comedy Writing Secrets
by Melvin Helitzer

So you've got the gift of glee, and you long to make people laugh? Well, with Melvin Helitzer's help you can - either from behind a typewriter and/or before a live audience. In this book, funnyman and university professor Helitzer reveals all the tricks of the comedian's trade. You'll learn the practicalities of comicality, the basics of comedy writing, the anatomy of humor, the avenues by which you can turn your comedic talent into a well-paying pursuit - even why the demand for humor writers far exceeds the supply. Read more