Using Humor in Books

Using humor in novels can be difficult, but it can be effective and profitable if done well. It should flow naturally in and out of the story and not be forced. Readers love a generous sprinkling of humor. It surprises them in a delightful way. And with practice, writing it becomes easier for the author.

A good place to start is to identify your style of humor. We all gravitate to some more than others, and it will be better to start with your strength. Some of the different styles include witty (humorous dialogue), satirical (where fun is poked at someone or something), and situational (where funny things happen). Characters can even make humorous comments about themselves or others. You might also remember or collect funny real-life stories.

I have included an occasional, light dash of humor in many of my novels, but the book I write after the one I'm working on now will have more funny moments. The cliche or idiom title, Got My Goat, will play out literally and figuratively in the story. The main character is given three goats, and the billy is smart, but he's an obstinate, ornery beast. I can't wait to start writing it.

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