Finding the perfect funny books for 11-year-olds can transform reading from a chore into a joy. Kids aged 9-12 especially love stories that mix humor with relatable themes like school life and adventures, helping them laugh through awkward moments. In this article, you’ll discover why humor captures their attention and a curated list of the funniest books to keep tweens engaged and entertained all year.
Why Funny Books Are Perfect for 11-Year-Olds
Humor naturally appeals to kids aged 9-12 because it combines fun with relatability. Funny books ease the awkward middle school phase by showing tweens they’re not alone in their feelings. Laughter motivates them to read for pleasure rather than obligation, offering a healthy escape from academic pressure and video games. With plenty of rib-tickling stories, these books keep kids entertained and curious, making reading a favorite after-school activity.
Top 15 Hilariously Funny Books for 11-Year-Olds in 2026
| Title | Synopsis & Humor Style |
|---|---|
| Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Diper Overlode by Jeff Kinney | Greg’s hilarious struggles with his band and family lead to big belly-laughs through silly situations and witty diary entries perfect for kids ages 9-12. |
| Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Deep End by Jeff Kinney | Follow Greg’s laugh-out-loud water park misadventures filled with awkward moments and funny characters that keep middle grade readers snorting with laughter. |
| Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Third Wheel by Jeff Kinney | Greg’s awkward Valentine’s Day dance and mistaken identities create a brilliantly funny story about friendship and middle school chaos. |
| Stick Dog by Tom Watson | A funny adventure about a dog and his gang trying to get snacks, packed with gross pranks and silly antics that tweens love to giggle at. |
| The Terrible Two by Mac Barnett & Jory John | A hilarious school story full of hilarious mixups and pranks as two pranksters compete to be the best jokers at school. |
| George’s Marvelous Medicine by Roald Dahl | Classic children’s book with outrageous magical adventures and laugh-out-loud moments as George concocts a funny family story with unexpected destinies. |
| Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston | A funny and moving fantasy-adventure that mixes humor with hair-raising scares and supernatural twists to keep kids on the edge of their seats. |
| Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey | Known for laugh out loud adventure and funny illustrations throughout, this series features superhero antics and absurd villains to keep kids laughing. |
| Big Nate: In A Class By Himself by Lincoln Peirce | A funny school story with a healthy dose of humor focusing on awkward middle school moments and hilarious classroom chaos. |
| Judy Moody Gets Famous! by Megan McDonald | Funny family stories with relatable humor and funny characters for kids navigating school, friends, and extracurricular adventures. |
| The Worst Class Trip Ever by Dave Barry | Features a brilliantly funny story with dangerous situations and humorous tween adventures that bring a series of laugh-out-loud moments. |
| Franny K. Stein, Mad Scientist by Jim Benton | A funny and smart series full of funny situations for kids who love science, spooky fun, and clever pranks. |
| My Weird School series by Dan Gutman | Funny school stories with quirky teachers and ridiculous events that pull kids back into reading through humor and silly dialogue. |
| Fablehaven by Brandon Mull | Mixes fantasy adventure with funny heart-warming sequel moments and mystical creatures for kids craving outrageous magical adventures. |
| Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar | A hilarious mixup of bizarre and funny tales in a zany school setting that encourages laughter and imagination among middle grade readers. |
How to Choose the Right Funny Book for Your Tween
To pick the perfect funny book, consider your child’s reading level and what humor style they enjoy—whether silly, witty, or gross-out. Also, match stories to their interests like fantasy adventure, school life, or a touch of spooky fun. Checking age-appropriate language ensures the reading experience stays positive and enjoyable.
Benefits of Laugh-Out-Loud Books for Kids Aged 9-12
Funny books lower stress and boost motivation for independent reading. They also help children bond over shared laughter in chat groups or after-school clubs, improving social skills. Humor supports emotional health by easing middle school challenges and making reading a source of comfort and fun.
Tips for Encouraging Reading with Funny Books
Create a cozy reading space and set fun times for enjoying humor-filled books. Talk about the funniest parts to deepen interest and laughter. Also, mix funny books with other genres to build broad reading tastes and keep kids curious as they grow.