Smart jokes about literature are the perfect blend of wit, wisdom, and wordplay—especially for book lovers with a clever sense of humor. Whether you’re a student, a teacher, or just someone who enjoys a good pun, literary jokes add a fun twist to classic works. This collection explores funny one-liners, puns, and laugh-out-loud takes on your favorite authors and stories. Get ready to crack a smile (or groan) as we dive into the whimsical world of literature-inspired comedy.
30 Jokes About Literature
For those whose natural habitat is nestled amongst stacks of books, and whose idea of a wild Friday night involves turning pages, a good literary joke is a treasured thing. Prepare to let out a quiet snort (or perhaps even a hearty guffaw) with these 20 jokes crafted for the dedicated bookworm.
1. Why did the librarian get kicked off the plane?
Because it was overbooked!
2. What do you call a book that tells jokes?
A punny read!
3. I’m reading a book about anti-gravity. It’s impossible to put down!
4. Why don’t books ever get cold?
Because they always have their covers!
5. What’s a book’s favorite type of weather?
Raining cats and dogs… into a cozy reading nook, of course!
6. Did you hear about the new book on the history of glue?
I hear it’s already binding.
7. Why did the math book look so sad?
Because it had too many problems.
8. My friend is writing a book about mazes. He’s completely lost in it.
9. What’s a librarian’s favorite instrument?
A bookcase-o-nova!
10. I tried to read a book about teleportation, but I couldn’t get to it in time.
11. Why did the comma break up with the apostrophe? It was just too possessive.
12. What do you get when you cross a snowman and a vampire? Frostbite. (Okay, maybe not strictly literature, but it’s a classic for a reason!)
13. Why are writers always cold?
Because they are surrounded by drafts.
14. What did the drawing say to the book?
I’m drawing a blank.
15. I’m on a seafood diet. I see food, and I read books.
16. Don’t judge a book by its cover… unless it’s a book of puns. Then, you can judge away!
17. What’s Jay Gatsby’s favorite type of exercise?
Charleston, obviously!
18. Why did the book go to therapy?
It had too many unresolved issues.
19. My bookshelf is so messy, I’m afraid of getting lost in a plot twist just trying to find a book.
20. What did the paperback say to the hardcover?
You need to lighten up!
21. What do you call 2000 mockingbirds?
Two kilo mockingbird. (A play on “To Kill a Mockingbird”)
22. How does Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde solve disputes?
With a split decision.
23. What do you say to comfort the grammar police?
There, there, they’re.
24. Why is a book’s plot so important?
It builds character.
25. Why did the dog run after the book?
It was chasing its tail.
26. Why did the scarecrow become a successful author?
He was outstanding in his field.
27. Have you heard the one about a chemist who was reading a book about helium?
He couldn’t put it down!
28. Why should you not write a book on penguins?
Because writing a book on paper is much easier!
29. Which building is the tallest?
The library… It has the most stories!
30. When is a green book not green?
When it’s read!
Final thoughts
Whether you’re a lifelong reader or just exploring the world of books, smart jokes about literature offer a fun and clever way to engage with familiar stories and authors. These witty lines and literary puns prove that reading doesn’t always have to be serious. Humor brings a fresh perspective to even the oldest classics. Keep a few jokes about literature in mind—they might just turn an ordinary conversation into a memorable literary moment.
Want to turn laughter into learning? Explore our Reading Comprehension Activities to help students dig deeper into stories, analyze humor, and strengthen their understanding of literature.
