Writing Comedy (Writing Handbooks) [Paperback]

John Byrne is the guru when it comes to advice on building a successful comedy career. Unlike many advisors, he's been there and done it himself. He knows the joys and sorrows of the comedy world and is best placed to help budding comedians make the most of their talent. --Jasmine Birtles, financial journalist, author, columnist for Independent

This is a book every comedy writer will come to value. --Ken Rock, President, British Society of Comedy Writers --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

John Byrne is the guru when it comes to advice on building a successful comedy career. Unlike many advisors, he's been there and done it himself. He knows the joys and sorrows of the comedy world and is best placed to help budding comedians make the most of their talent. Jasmine Birtles, financial journalist, author, columnist for Independent This is a book every comedy writer will come to value. Ken Rock, founder member of the British Society of Comedy Writers --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

This work breaks down the basics of writing comedy into simple steps and shows how to make the most of your individual comedy writing abilities. It starts with the basics - writing jokes and short pieces - and then develops into writing sitcoms and full length routines. There are ideas on how to tailor material for radio, TV and print. It also discusses the practical aspects of turning comedy writing into a career, and offers suggestions on how to make contacts within the business, follow up leads and market your material effectively. This updated edition looks at the latest developments and markets for comedy from the Internet to broadband and interactive TV.

John Byrne is an author, cartoonist and stand up comedian with wide ranging experience in both performance and teaching of creative skills. His cartoons regularly appear in a wide range of publications including Media Week, The Stage and The Bookseller and he has also published over thirty books for children and adults. He lives in London.