Title: What's so funny?
First published: 1995
Description: In this study of American humorous books published for children since 1920, Michael Cart addresses universal considerations of what makes us laugh by focusing on three particular types of books: talking-animal fantasies, hyperbole and tall-tale humor, and domestic or family comedy, the literary equivalent of television sitcoms.

In addressing the intriguing question "What's so funny?" Michael Cart makes a convincing argument for according humorous books the same critical stature as serious literature. In the process he not only celebrates some neglected talents (Walter R. Brooks and Sid Fleischman) but also takes a fresh and occasionally revisionist look at some established classics (the Moffats and Ramona Quimby, among others).
Subjects: American Humorous stories, American Humorous poetry, History and criticism, Books and reading, Children's literature, American, Humorous stories, American, Humorous poetry, American, Children, American wit and humor, Jeugdliteratuur, Amerikaans, Humor (grappigheden), Wit and humor, New York Times reviewed, Children's literature, history and criticism, Humorous poetry, American wit and humor, history and criticism, Children, books and reading
Places: United States
LC classification: PS490 .C37 1995