Laughter has been shown to have health benefits such as releasing serotonin and endorphins, decreasing stress and boosting the immune system. A hearty laugh can make us feel more positive and resilient. The act of laughing can even burn a few calories, although personally, I would have to be in a constant state of hysterics in order to attain the desired results.
Importantly, humor helps us cope during tough times. With that in mind, take a look at the following books and DVDs. I hope they offer a bright spot in your day.
Comedian, actress, and best-selling author Phoebe Robinson is back with her third book “Please Don’t Sit On My Bed in Your Outside Clothes.” Her personal essays encompass a wide array of subjects including race, her decision to be child-free, and her seriously comedic interactions with her British boyfriend. Written in a conversational style, her book covers 
important topics with a comic wit.
Known for her popular Instagram series, “The Girl Who’s Never Been on a Nice Date,” Quinta Brunson has gone on to produce and act in BuzzFeed videos and work on “A Black Lady Sketch Show.” In her first book, “She Memes Well,” she shares her early years in Philadelphia, her love of comedy, and her move to Los Angeles. Enjoy her personal stories, the role social media plays in her life, and her rise to celebrity in the comedy world.
Many people became acquainted with the accomplished playwright and actor, Leslie Jordan, from his recurring role on the
sitcom, “Will and Grace.” In his new book, “How Y’all Doing?: Misadventures and Mischief from a Life Well Lived,” he reflects on life growing up in a southern Baptist family in Tennessee, shares encounters with celebrities like Lady Gaga and Debbie Reynolds, and expresses his surprise at going viral on Instagram at 64. A fun, sweet, and short collection of stories.
Other book titles to consider:
“All About Me!: My Remarkable Life in Show Business” by Mel Brooks; “Broken (in the best possible way)” by Jenny Lawson; “Mixed Plate: Chronicles of an All-American Combo” by Jo Koy; “Where the Deer and the Antelope Play: The Pastoral Observations of One Ignorant American Who Loves to Walk Outside” by Nick Offerman; “The Wreckage of My Presence: Essays” by Casey Wilson, and “Yearbook” by Seth Rogen.
We also have an extensive collection of funny movies on DVD available for checkout like “Forrest Gump,” “Young Frankenstein,” “My Cousin Vinny,” “Shaun of the Dead,” “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” “Office Space,” “Duck Soup,” and “Airplane.” I’m certain you’ll find more than one that will put a smile on your face.
Editor’s note: The Library has temporarily suspended in-person services beginning January 18th. All of these great books–and more–can be checked out through our Books-to-Go program by calling, emailing, or using your on-line account. There is no cost to place a book hold.