Laughter Is the Best Medicine is a humor compilation from Reader’s Digest that includes jokes, stories, cartoons, and quotes. The book aims to provide lighthearted entertainment and amusement by focusing on the humor that can be found in everyday situations.
The book also offers a historical perspective on humor, drawing on a century of Reader’s Digest content.
A Century of Humor: Reader’s Digest’s Legacy
Reader’s Digest has a long tradition of including humor in its publications. Laughter is the Best Medicine compiles humor from the magazine’s 100-year history, and the humor is family-friendly.
The jokes and anecdotes in the book show how much times have changed and how cultural norms have shifted over the decades. Some of the older jokes and stories are different from the ones you’d read today.
What’s inside Laughter is the Best Medicine?
You’ll find a wide range of funny stuff in this book, including jokes, stories, cartoons, and quotes.
The jokes and stories are short and sweet, perfect for a quick pick-me-up when you need a laugh.
Here are a couple of examples of the type of humor you’ll find:
- “If evolution really works, how come mothers have only two hands?” –Milton Berle
- “The game card said: “Name three wars.” My teenage daughter’s response: “Civil War, Revolutionary War, and Star Wars.””
The book pulls humor from a lot of different places, including professional comedians, joke writers, and even everyday readers.
The “medicine” of laughter: Entertainment and stress relief
Sometimes, all you need is a good laugh, or even a desktop stress relief game. Books like these offer a lighthearted escape from the everyday pressures of life. They remind us that humor is a powerful tool for entertainment and stress relief, as is music, according to some stress relief statistics.
The idea of laughter as medicine isn’t new, but these books really explore the healing power of humor. A good guffaw can lift your spirits, ease your worries, and maybe even boost your immune system. So, prescribe yourself a dose of laughter today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who said laughter is good medicine?
While the exact origin is debated, the sentiment that “laughter is good medicine” has been around for centuries. Figures like Milton Berle and Norman Cousins popularized the idea, but the proverb’s roots likely stem from ancient wisdom recognizing the benefits of humor for well-being.
Who said laughter is the shortest distance between two people?
This quote is often attributed to the comedian Victor Borge. It reflects the idea that laughter can break down barriers and create a sense of connection and understanding between individuals, bridging divides more effectively than perhaps any other form of communication.
What is the best medicine for laughing?
There’s no single “best” medicine for laughter, as humor is subjective. However, things that commonly induce laughter include funny movies, stand-up comedy, humorous books, spending time with amusing friends and family, and finding the absurdity in everyday situations. The key is to find what personally tickles your funny bone.
What is the error in “laugh is the best medicine”?
The grammatically correct phrasing is “laughter is the best medicine.” “Laugh” is a verb (an action), while “laughter” is a noun (a thing or concept). Therefore, to express the idea that the concept of laughter is beneficial, “laughter” is the appropriate word to use in this context.
Summary
Laughter Is the Best Medicine is a collection of jokes, stories, and anecdotes that can appeal to just about anyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick chuckle or a way to lighten the mood, this book delivers. It’s a great option for families who want to share a few laughs together, too. Pick it up and see for yourself!