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Named a Most Anticipated Book by Vulture, The Millions, and Lit Hub"Comedy Bookchanges the way we talk about an art form that is more diverse and exciting than ever before." -- Seth Meyers "A sharp, loving, well written exploration and analysis of the art form that makes us smile, helps us relate, and is perpetually mysterious." -- Jenny SlateFrom a beloved comedy critic, a wisecracking, heartfelt, and overdue chronicle of comedy's boom -- and its magic.. Comedy is king. From multimillion-dollar TV specials to sold-out stand-up shows and TikTok stardom, comedy has never been more popular, democratized, or influential. Comedians have become organizing forces across culture -- as trusted as politicians and as fawned-over as celebrities -- yet comedy as an art form has gone under-considered throughout its history, even as it has ascended as a cultural force.