The Comic Toolbox How to Be Funny Even If You're Not

by John Vorhaus

Book Overview

A straightforward, often humorous workbook approach to comedy writing as creative problem-solving. In it, veteran Hollywood comedy writer John Vorhaus offers his tools of the trade to writers, comics,... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1879505215
• ISBN13: 9781879505216
• Release Date: July 1994
• Publisher: Silman-James Press
• Length: 191 Pages
• Weight: 0.79 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 6.2" x 8.9"

Customer Reviews

Best Comedy Writing book out there

I've bought & read a lot of the comedy writing books out there. And I'm always wondering...If they really understand how to write comedy, then why aren't their books funny? I only trust people who are capable of practicing what they preach. VORHAUS PRACTICES WHAT HE PREACHES!!! ... This book IS funny, and he can articulate why. Not just for stand-up, but for any type of comic writing. If you only buy one comedy writing book, this is the one I'd recommend....especially at this price!

Helpful and humourous in equal proportions

If you ever thought being funny couldn't be learned then you would have to swallow your pride and change your mind after reading this book. Its full of hands on exercises to get your creativity juices going.I have recommended this book and so have the WGA mentors so what other approval do you need!Some people's books are sermonize without being convincing. Vorhaus does not take this path but his words are thought provoking and informative, as well as some of his natural wit chucked in as well for good measure (his chapter on practical jokes is evidence of that).It's a journey through comedy starting from its essential nature to comic characters (writers ignore this chapter at their peril!!!!) to film scripts and more little words of advice to make you the next James L. Brooks.And its not just about being funny but structure (yes that dreaded word again) his feature film paradigm is helpful and is just as good as buying books by Syd Field. Also a section on Sitcoms which just as good. It even has profound thoughts on creativity, which he has added to and exported in another of his books.This book is so good it's worth 3 times its asking price. John Vorhaus is funny and full of warmth. You can do much worse but I doubt you can do much better (if you can get in contact with me immediately!!!)

(Unimaginative title here)

This book will teach you step by step how to construct comedy- whether that be a joke, a sketch, or a gag. This book will get you there. Oh it is work... make no mistake, but you WILL be funny. How many books do you own that you can say that about?

A helpful - and ENJOYABLE - book of fiction writing advice

No other book on writing I've read - and I've read a lot! - kept me chuckling throughout. I'd recommend this book for the laughs alone, but I can also recommend it as the fount of writing wisdom it entails.Vorhaus not only explains the basic types of humor and the elements of a comic plot, but also lays out an excellent plotting structure useful for any type of fiction writing. Whether you merely want to add a few touches of humor to an angsty story, or you want to write the next comic blockbuster, this book will help you on your way.P.S. Chapter 9 alone is worth the price of the book!

#1book on comedy writing!

Don't believe any review under 5 stars...this is THE book you need. I've been on a quest since I was a teenager to find a good comedy writing book. I've read them all and they've all been lacking...lacking in real help, lacking in humor, and lacking in inspiration. Until "The Comic Toolbox". The author lays out in perfect detail how to create comedy. In addition, he's very inspirational and very funny. There's only one source better than "The Comic Toolbox" and that's the author's in-person seminar. I just attended one and it blew me away.