What's So Funny?: A New Road Map to Humour in Dangerous Times

Why do we laugh— and why does it matter now more than ever?

Humour has always been a tool for survival, rebellion, and understanding the absurdity of life. In What’ s So Funny?, Mira Falardeau, author of the widely acclaimed pioneering work, A History of Women Cartoonists, explores the power of humour across cultures and centuries— from ancient Greek satire to modern political cartoons. With insight and wit, she examines why we laugh, how humour challenges authority, and what makes a joke land (or fail). In an age of cancel culture and controversy, this book is a timely guide to the art of laughter.