Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC (in audiobook format.).

In the world of comedy, where the line between a belly laugh and a groan can be as thin as a tightrope, Joel Morris’s “Be Funny or Die” emerges as a seminal work that not only walks this line with grace but also invites us to join him on the wire.

Morris, a seasoned comedy writer with a repertoire that includes collaborations with Charlie Brooker and contributions to the Paddington films, embarks on a quest to dissect the frog of comedy without killing it—a task many would deem quixotic. Yet, through his narrative, he achieves the seemingly impossible: he makes the analysis of comedy not just palatable but downright enjoyable.

The book opens with a promise bold enough to pique the interest of any comedy aficionado: to reveal the secret of comedy itself. And while many might guess ‘timing,’ Morris delves deeper into the psychology and sociology behind why we laugh and the importance of triggering that response in others. He navigates through the evolutionary origins of laughter and the role comedy plays in exploring social conventions, all while maintaining a tone that is both scholarly and accessible.

“Be Funny or Die” is not just a collection of humorous anecdotes or a how-to guide on crafting the perfect punchline. It is an exploration of comedy as an art form, a social commentary, and a psychological study.

Morris argues that comedy’s divisiveness is not a flaw but a feature, providing social cohesion within tribes while simultaneously acting as a battleground in the culture wars.

The book shines brightest when Morris applies his theoretical framework to practical examples, illustrating the ‘rule of three’ or, as he puts it, Construct, Confirm, and Confound. This golden maxim is the backbone of the book, providing a structure that is both enlightening and entertaining.

Narrated by Morris himself, the audiobook adds an extra layer of authenticity and engagement. His voice conveys the nuances of his writing, making the experience akin to attending a masterclass with the author.

“Be Funny or Die” is a must-read for anyone interested in the mechanics of humor, the intricacies of comedic writing, or simply the joy of laughter. It is a book that will not only teach you the ‘b’dum tish’ timing but also why it resonates with us on a fundamental level. Morris has crafted a work that is educational, entertaining, and, most importantly, funny—a triumphant exploration of why comedy truly matters.

 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A five-star journey into the heart of comedy that will leave you enlightened, engaged, and chuckling

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC of this book.

This was such an interesting study of comedy that was both informative and entertaining. I loved all of the examples the author used from various TV shows and movies. I feel like it better helped me connect with the subject and put things in better perspective for me.

Interesting study of comedy. As a comedian myself, it was an interesting and educational read. Joel Morris has an easy writing style, and while the info was pithy it was also helpful.

There was a little bit of a hold up, because of the difference between UK and US comedy, but I didn't mind it at all, it just made me feel like I was learning even more. I also really loved that this audiobook was narrated by the author! It made sure all the delivers were bang on to the intention of the comedian!

Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the ARC which was provided in exchange for an honest review.

Be Funny or Die is a look into the world of comedy. I don’t know if I was the right demographic for this book, but it was interesting nonetheless — just a bit of an academic angle. I enjoyed the audiobook version and its narration. Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this audiobook.

Be Funny or Die is NOT your casual comedy book that will leave you with a few light-hearted laughs and a brighter outlook on life. It is in fact instead a very serious (and sometimes not as serious) look at what makes comedy work, what makes it not work, and how the structure of comedy, be it on stage, in a show, or in a movie is what makes comedy work.

For my part, I think this could have easily be a 5-star read if I were 1. British (and understood all of the references) 2. a comedian myself. It was a bit too deep for me as merely a casual consumer of comedic efforts. I honestly kept thinking, "Gosh, I wonder what my comedy-performing friends would think of this. Could it help? Would it make them overthink things?"

The comedic patterns - especially the three Cs are fascinating for me from a sociological/psychological perspective - and he really does cover so much, I was impressed with the writing and incorporating of examples. The cover is also just outstanding!

Published today! Or yesterday! Netgalley and Goodreads told me two different things. Either way, happy (belated or not) release day!

I was most interested in the topics of comedy means safety and plot vs. story. At first, I expected this book to be a mix of serious and funny, but I only got serious. Once I recalibrated my brain and understood the whole book would be this way, I started to enjoy it more. It did feel like it could've been about 100 pages shorter though as it did start getting repetitive to the point of "okay, I get it".

Quote I liked: "Comedy is about hijacking complex machinery for a giggle"

Review of “Be Funny or Die” by Joel Morris

Disclaimer: Please note that I received an ARC audiobook copy of this book from NetGalley and The Dreamscape Team, in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Be Funny or Die” by Joel Morris, narrated by the author himself, is a riotous journey into the world of comedy.

Whether you’re a writer, creator, or aspiring comedian, this audiobook is a goldmine of wisdom. I was pleasantly surprised by how insightful it was, even beyond the realm of comedy. Morris effortlessly blends humor with education, making learning about comedic beats and rhythms an absolute blast.

Throughout the audiobook, Morris breaks down the nuts and bolts of comedy, from stand-up to sitcoms, revealing the hidden mechanisms behind what makes us laugh. With plenty of jokes and examples, “Be Funny or Die” not only entertains but also teaches practical tips on mastering comedic timing and understanding the essence of humor.

In short, “Be Funny or Die” is a must-listen for anyone who loves to laugh. Whether you’re a seasoned comedian or just someone who enjoys a good chuckle, this audiobook offers an eye-opening exploration into the power of humor. It’s educational, entertaining, and downright hilarious – a definite five-star gem.

Educational and entertaining, a great book for novices looking to learn about how comedy works but also for readers interested to dive into subjects of mechanics and theories about comedy. While analytical, the narration was still humorous as one expects of such topics. Audiobook was excellent.

"Be Funny or Die: How Comedy Works and Why It Matters" by Joel Morris is a book that delves into the intricacies of comedy, exploring its mechanisms and significance in our lives.

If you're expecting endless laughs, you'll be disappointed, which is why I gave it only 4 stars.

The author, a professional comedy writer, provides analysis on various comedic forms, from stand-up to slapstick, revealing the underlying patterns and dynamics that make jokes work.

The book aims to uncover the algorithms that drive comedy and offers insights into how humor can soothe pain, vent anger, and connect us through shared laughter.

It also touches on the social importance of comedy and its role as a universal language.

It's a bit slow to get going and repetitive. But for a novice, it could help.

Humor is probably the most important part of my personality so I thought this would be interesting. However, it went so much further than I thought in making sense of what makes things funny. I found myself agreeing with almost everything, and wanting to learn more.
There was so much information that I plan on reading a physical copy to catch what I missed. The audiobook is fantastic, and the narrator was amazing, but I want more details. That isn't to say that it feels too academic or boring, but that I liked so much I want to spread it out.
One of the things that was really interesting to me was how many of my favorites were brought up as examples, like Asterix. It will be fun to incorporate new techniques into my repertoire.
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me listen to this audiobook

I really enjoyed this analysis of comedy. The author used examples from both British and American humor to flesh out his points, so fans of one or the other doesn't feel left out and can relate. He also does some analysis with drama selections and reflects on how comedy has an effect on us as a culture. It was well-organized and thought out.

Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for an ARC audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

This book was a lot of fun! (No pun intended.) Haha.

I wasn't really sure what I was getting into when I requested this book. I think I was maybe picturing something between a David Sedaris book and Justin Halpern's "Sh!t My Dad Says."

It was neither of those things.

Instead, it was an interesting, informative book about why we need comedy, the circumstances under which comedy can be successful, how we use comedy to cement ourselves within our tribes, and how to be successful as a comedian.

Of course, being written by a funny man, it had plenty of humor, as well. (It also references many of the best comedies, sketches, performances, etc. of all time -- which was awesome because it gave me a new list of things to check out.) I actually found this book to be really educational. I, myself, am not a comedian or an aspiring comedian. However, I AM a writer. And there was plenty of stuff in this book to benefit me, so I can only imagine how informative it would be for a legitimate comedian.

The book was about 75% anecdotal, 15% pop culture-inspired, and 10% research- and scientific-based factual information. Whether you simply enjoy a good comedy show or are an aspiring funny man (or woman) yourself, I highly recommend giving it a listen.

As for the audio aspects of the book (which is how I "read" it), no complaints. It was read by the author himself, and that always makes a book better for me. When the author reads his or her own work, I feel like you really get to experience it the way they intended. It was also clear, perfectly paced, and had noticeable errors or problems.

All-in-all, this was easily a 4-star book, and I say that as someone who mostly reads fantasy, horror, and true crime. So if you're actually into this kind of stuff, you'd probably love it.

AUDIO EDITION 9h 3m Narrated by author

The title pretty much summarizes the book. That said, it wasn't quite what I was expecting but was an interesting read nevertheless. Narrated by author Joel Morris, the narrative flowed and I felt like Morris was sitting across from me and simply chatting as he shared his experiences and thoughts. Chapters were simply announced and the narration carried on. Since, as is my usual custom with audio editions, I listened while driving or doing everyday things, I'm sure I probably missed some of the nuances, especially since I only scribbled a few notes to myself. I will admit that there were times when I felt like I was going into info overload, but then he'd move right along and I'd find myself right back into the flow.

Although the names used weren't always familiar, it was easy to see where they fit into the whole, that comedy is a universal language. I haven't done so yet but the section on Robin Williams laughing and telling jokes to a giant ape who knew sign language has me ready to do some internet digging in the near future. The question of whether animals share our need and love of humor was definitely intriguing. Morris also brought back fond memories of the late Queen Elizabeth's foray into comedy. Remember her short video with "James Bond", ie Daniel Craig? Just as the graphic of the late Queen hand-in-hand with Paddington Bear was utilized as a sort of universal sharing of grief, it also brought back memories of the very regal Queen sharing lunch and the secret of her always present purse with Paddington. That's part of the humor process Morris discusses, btw, the unexpectedness of it all.

That's the focus of the book. What works and doesn't work. More importantly, reasons why. Rather than being a guide to budding comedians, however, this is more a look at the comedy genre. As such, it all became a bit too much for me at times but was ultimately intriguing. Much of the advice that can be mined within is probably obvious, like know your audience, timing, expectations, and pace. But it also talks about what makes comedy duos work, heck, trios or groups. Thinking about the examples used, it all made sense, even as I was driving down a snowy highway while listening to that section. Oh, the potential comedy of a snowy highway. So, if you're looking for an in depth look at being funny, this is the book for you. It won't tell you how to be funny but you'll better understand why you find some things funny and, well, others not. We've all been there. That joke that makes everyone but you in the room roar while you muster a bewildered smile.

Bottom line, while this book offered me more than I wanted to know at times, overall I found it quite interesting. As a narrator, I loved Morris' British accent. And, hey,speaking of Brits, his comment about the late John Lennon once saying that if he hadn't been a Beatle, he'd have loved to be part of the Goons comedy troupe. Humor really is a universal language, just as music is, notes Morris. I'm rating this a four star since it wasn't quite a perfect fit for me but, honestly, for those desiring an in depth look at "how comedy works and why it matters", this is easily a five plus.Thanks #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for sharing an early listen that gave me some laughs and grins as well as made me think. Also, thanks to the author for the solid citations.

A humorous investigation of how comedy works. It goes into the evolutionary basis for humor, why it’s ubiquitous (but different) across groups, and what makes comedy so important.

I was hoping for a bit more practical advice on how to add humor to stories, while this was more of a theory-focused text, but it was a fun read all the same. It’s well researched, with citations.

Thanks, NetGalley and Unbound, for the gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Full disclosure, I heard Charlie Brooker was a patron and I was invested.

Be Funny or Die is a fantastic exploration into the world of comedy and what makes it tick, where it comes from how and who. (Also, I believe the author and narrator Joel Morris wrote for Philomena Cunk, so I knew this would be my jam)

I love the analogy of the personal comedy landscape being architecture that a person can enjoy without necessarily liking the architects

Morris writes like you are chatting with your best friend. A very smart, entertaining and witty friend. the type who chats away to you and then produces a saurated rubber chicken out of nowhere and yeets it squealing through the air at you

Morris has the perfect voice for narration, it keeps the listener gripped and keen to hear more. Very interesting and a lot of fun

Lol - Wbsnazum. Iykyk

Thank you to Netgalley, Dreamscape Media and Joel Morris for this fantastic ALC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own