In on the Joke: The Original Queens of Standup Comedy

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From bestselling author Shawn Levy comes a hilarious and moving account of the trailblazing women who broke down barriers in stand-up comedy. Today, women dominate the scene, making headlines and filling arenas, but the journey to this point was far from easy. Before the likes of Amy Schumer, Tiffany Haddish, and Ali Wong, the concept of a female comedian was often dismissed as a joke. This narrative highlights the unforgettable women who shattered the glass ceiling of comedy, spanning decades from Moms Mabley's rise in Black vaudeville to the bold performances of Belle Barth and Rusty Warren in the mid-20th century. It also chronicles Elaine May's co-creation of improv comedy and the fierce ascents of Joan Rivers and Phyllis Diller to mainstream fame. These women defied societal norms and faced skepticism from agents, audiences, and even their families. Yet, they persevered against the belief that women couldn't be funny, paving the way for future generations. Meticulously researched and vividly illustrated, Levy's work forms a new pantheon of comedy excellence, showcasing how these women not only broke into a male-dominated field but also redefined womanhood while sharing laughter along the way.