The Ten Commandments of Comedy

Beginning comedy writers and performers may think funny can't be taught, but legendary comedy writer Gene Perret, winner of three Emmy Awards, tells otherwise in this guide to what makes a good joke work. Outlining the 10 commandments of comedy, the unbreakable rules that every gag must follow in order to be funny, this book liberates readers and allows them to immediately begin writing better and funnier comedy material. By following Perret’s commandments, readers will better understand how to write jokes that connect with audiences and discover why unsuccessful material isn’t working and how it can be fixed. From the First Commandment (“Thou Shalt Surprise”) to the Tenth (“Thou Shalt Be Clever”), this work stands as a fast guide to the essentials of humor that is perfect for business presenters, after-dinner speakers, professional comedians, and anyone who wants to be funny.

Gene Perret has written for many of TV’s top-rated shows, including All in the Family, Laugh-In, Mama’s Family, and The New Bill Cosby Show. He is the winner of three Emmy Awards as part of The Carol Burnett Show staff and was a producer on Three’s Company and Welcome Back, Kotter. He is the author of more than 40 books, including the bestselling Comedy Writing Step by Step.