Certainly, humor is a subjective matter, but here are some well-known and funny novels in English, along with a brief overview of each:
1. **"Catch-22" by Joseph Heller**:
- Synopsis: This satirical novel is set during World War II and follows the experiences of a U.S. Army Air Forces B-25 bombardier, Captain John Yossarian. The book is known for its dark and absurd humor, particularly in the face of the bureaucracy and insanity of war.
- Author: Joseph Heller
- Published: 1961
2. **"The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" by Douglas Adams**:
- Synopsis: This science fiction comedy series begins with the novel of the same name. It follows the misadventures of an unwitting human, Arthur Dent, as he travels through space with an eclectic group of characters, including Ford Prefect and Zaphod Beeblebrox.
- Author: Douglas Adams
- Published: 1979
- Note: The series consists of five books and has a cult following.
3. **"Good Omens" by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman**:
- Synopsis: This humorous fantasy novel tells the story of the birth of the Antichrist and the unlikely alliance between an angel and a demon who team up to prevent the apocalypse.
- Authors: Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman
- Published: 1990
4. **"Bridget Jones's Diary" by Helen Fielding**:
- Synopsis: Written in the form of a diary, this novel humorously chronicles the life and romantic mishaps of Bridget Jones, a single woman in her 30s living in London.
- Author: Helen Fielding
- Published: 1996
- Note: It spawned a popular film adaptation and a series of sequels.
5. **"A Confederacy of Dunces" by John Kennedy Toole**:
- Synopsis: Set in New Orleans, this novel follows Ignatius J. Reilly, a highly educated but eccentric and lazy individual, as he encounters a cast of quirky characters and gets entangled in various absurd situations.
- Author: John Kennedy Toole
- Published: 1980
- Awards: Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction (1981).
6. **"The Princess Bride" by William Goldman**:
- Synopsis: This novel, presented as an abridged version of a longer work, tells the story of a young woman named Buttercup and her true love, Westley, as they embark on a humorous and swashbuckling adventure.
- Author: William Goldman
- Published: 1973
- Note: The book is known for its witty and self-aware storytelling.
These novels offer a range of humor, from dark satire to light-hearted comedy, and are beloved for their wit and clever writing. The sense of humor in each varies, so you can choose one that aligns with your comedic preferences.