Chances are, you’re familiar with the works of acclaimed children’s book author Robert Munsch. Even if you don’t recognize his name, his books are practically ubiquitous in much of the world.
One of the best-selling children’s book writers of all time, Munsch’s books have been translated into multiple languages. In 1999, Munsch was inducted into the Order of Canada for his contributions to literature. For years, Munsch was even the most-borrowed author in the Canadian public library system!
In case you’re less familiar with his works, or perhaps you’re looking to reconnect with his books, we’ve put together this list of his ten funniest children’s books in order to help you choose your next funny read.
Let’s dive into our ten funniest Robert Munsch children’s books.
10. Aaron’s Hair
Aaron is an ordinary young boy who loves his father very much. But after he decides to grow his hair long, like his father, Aaron becomes fed up with the annoyance and inconvenience of his new locks.
When Aaron loses his patience and shouts “Hair, I hate you!” his hair decides to retaliate, jumping off his head and beginning a life of its own. As Aaron rushes after his loose hair, chaos breaks loose. Can he restore order and set the world right again?
Why we recommend it: I love the fantastical whimsy in this book.
9. Purple, Green, and Yellow
Brigid loves her new markers (so relatable). But as she ventures down the rabbit hole of unusual and exotic markers, she finds one called the “super-indelible-never-come-off-until-you’re-dead.” Will she go too far?
Why we recommend it: I liked how evocative and bright this book was. It’s an incredibly memorable children’s book and a laugh riot to boot.
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8. Angela’s Airplane
At the airport with her dad, Angela finds herself in the empty cockpit of an airplane. When she accidentally takes flight, she’s delighted! That is until she realizes she doesn’t know how to land. With the help of air traffic control, can Angela save the day?
Why we recommend it: I liked the childlike fantasy of this book, which was wholesome and heartwarming.
7. Smelly Socks
Tina’s got new socks, and they are fabulous. She loves them so much, in fact, that she refuses to take them off. But as they get smellier and smellier, the scenarios in which Tina finds herself become increasingly absurd.
Why we recommend it: I loved the bright and silly illustrations in this book.
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6. The Paper Bag Princess
A feminist children’s book that deserves a place among the most timeless children’s classics, this story inverts the damsel-in-distress trope.
Princess Elizabeth must set out to save the endangered Prince Ronald wearing nothing but a shabby paper bag, proving her own strength and independence in the process.
Why we recommend it: I loved the unexpected ending of this book, which shows that girls and women don’t need a prince charming to be happy.
5. Stephanie’s Ponytail
Stephanie is the most stylish girl in her friend group, setting the trends that everyone inevitably imitates. But when Stephanie begins to experiment with increasingly absurd hairstyles, she realizes her friends will stop at nothing to copy her…
Why we recommend it: I loved how realistic this book is. Even adults imitate trends, and this book made me chuckle for its honest portrayal of that.
4. Moira’s Birthday
Moira has a good heart. It’s her birthday, and she wants to share it with her friends.
But when the classmates who weren’t invited ask if they can come to her party, too, the situation spirals out of control. How will her parents manage the sudden onslaught of hundreds of birthday party guests?
Why we recommend it: I liked the sweet, innocent generosity of Moira’s character.
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3. I Have To Go!
Andrew is a little boy who has to go to the bathroom at the most inopportune moments. No matter how much planning and preparation there is, he simply has to go at the worst possible time.
This super-relatable children’s book is hysterical for both kids and any adult who’s spent time around them.
Why we recommend it: I enjoyed the humor in this book, as it held appeal for both kids (bathroom humor) and adults (relatable and ridiculous realities of child-rearing).
2. Thomas’ Snowsuit
Thomas absolutely refuses to put on his snowsuit. Sure, it’s cold outside. And snowy. And did we mention COLD? No matter how much the adults around him try to convince him to wear his snowsuit, he stubbornly defies them with hilarious results.
Why we recommend it: I love the relationships in this book, especially the parent-child one. It sheds light on the ins and outs of parental love in an honest and amusing way.
1. Mortimer
This timeless story is about a young boy named Mortimer, who refuses to go to sleep. Instead of going to bed, he sings the same refrain on repeat. Can his family, friends, and neighbors persuade him to get some rest?!
Why we recommend it: I love the absurd humor in this book. It’s an entertaining read for children and adults alike. Mortimer is also the perfect excuse to do some silly voice acting, and it’s a popular choice for children’s theater and puppet actors as well!
While these are our ten favorite Robert Munsch children’s books, we’re pleased to note that it’s not an exhaustive list. His books just keep coming! Bounce, his newest children’s book, is out this month, and we can’t wait to read it.
