From the moment the first waves of European settlers made their way to the country's shores, Americans have been known for their distinct -- and often peculiar -- sense of humor. This fascinating collection of essays, short stories, and vignettes brings together a cavalcade of literary luminaries who each explore or embody some aspect of American humor.

Reproduction of the original.

As the title claims, the book is a real collection of the best examples of the American humorous literature. The editor gathers valuable pieces by the prominent authors like Washington Irving, Benjamin Franklin, Mark Twain and many more. It was compiled at the turn of the 19th and 20th century and its aim was to bring relaxing notes into the craze for moral seriousness in all literature, which was characteristic of that period.

Although it is still not known who wrote this work, despite its age it continues to be widely read today.

Add some levity to your reading list with this compilation of some of the wittiest and most amusing humor writing from the American literary canon. Bringing together essays, vignettes and short stories from an array of authors, including Little Women scribe Louisa May Alcott, this delightful volume is sure to ease your cares and bring a smile to your face.

Funny: The Book is an entertaining look at the art of comedy, from its historical roots to the latest scientific findings, with diversions into the worlds of movies (Buster Keaton and the Marx Brothers), television (The Office), prose (Woody Allen, Robert Benchley), theater (The Front Page), jokes and stand-up comedy (Richard Pryor, Steve Martin), as well as personal reminiscences from the author's experiences on such TV programs as Mork and Mindy. With allusions to the not-always-funny Carl Jung, George Orwell, and Arthur Koestler, Funny: The Book explores the evolution, theories, principles, and practice of comedy, as well as the psychological, philosophical, and even theological underpinnings of humor, coming to the conclusion that (Spoiler Alert!) Comedy is God.