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Blazing Humor: Mel Brooks Is Seriously Funny!
Some people think jokes are silly, but not Mel Brooks. For Mel, humor is serious. And Mel is seriously funny!
This picture book biography of the legendary comedian and filmmaker shares his humor with a new generation―and shows kids how Mel used his jokes as a weapon to fight everyone from childhood bullies to racists and dictators.
This picture book biography of the legendary comedian and filmmaker shares his humor with a new generation―and shows kids how Mel used his jokes as a weapon to fight everyone from childhood bullies to racists and dictators.
40 pages, Hardcover
First published April 7, 2026
About the author
Ann D. Koffsky
47 books49 followersAnn D. Koffsky is the author and illustrator of 50+ books, including Ping Pong Shabbat, (Little Bee) and the Kayla & Kugel series, (Apples and Honey Press). Several of her books have been PJ library selections, and her book Noah’s Swimathon received a Sydney Taylor notable designation from the Association of Jewish Libraries.
Ann is represented by agent Joyce Sweeney at The Seymour Agency.
Ann is represented by agent Joyce Sweeney at The Seymour Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
Review of advance copy
Biographies are so important to learn about others, their struggles and victories. And this book, about Mel Brooks, not only teaches us about his life, but also the importance of humor in our lives. Well done!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Ann Koffsky’s Blazing Humor introduces young readers to the legendary comedian and filmmaker Mel Brooks, framing his humor not just as entertainment but as a powerful tool for resistance and self-expression. Koffsky captures the essence of Brooks’s life, from his childhood challenges to his rise as a satirical voice confronting prejudice and authoritarianism. The book's engaging illustrations and lively narrative immediately draw the reader into the theatrical and sometimes subversive world of Brooks’s comedy.
The picture book explores key moments from Mel Brooks's early life, highlighting experiences with bullies, societal exclusion, and cultural challenges. These formative moments are juxtaposed with his later career achievements, illustrating how he used humor strategically to critique injustice and advocate for identity, particularly his Jewish heritage. Koffsky emphasizes laughter as both a personal and societal weapon. The narrative balances levity and depth, encouraging readers to think ethically about comedy, satire, and their broader social implications. Kirschner’s illustrations amplify the story’s energy using bold lines, exaggerated expressions, and vivid colors, evoking both stage and circus aesthetics while mirroring Brooks’s larger-than-life persona.
The picture book explores key moments from Mel Brooks's early life, highlighting experiences with bullies, societal exclusion, and cultural challenges. These formative moments are juxtaposed with his later career achievements, illustrating how he used humor strategically to critique injustice and advocate for identity, particularly his Jewish heritage. Koffsky emphasizes laughter as both a personal and societal weapon. The narrative balances levity and depth, encouraging readers to think ethically about comedy, satire, and their broader social implications. Kirschner’s illustrations amplify the story’s energy using bold lines, exaggerated expressions, and vivid colors, evoking both stage and circus aesthetics while mirroring Brooks’s larger-than-life persona.
Blazing Humor excels at making Brooks’s life accessible to children while weaving in subtle cultural commentary. Koffsky’s approach demonstrates that humor is a form of agency, allowing readers to understand comedy as a deliberate, socially meaningful act rather than merely a source of entertainment. The book’s structure and pacing are vivid and dynamic, aided by the careful integration of visuals that reinforce timing, rhythm, and emotion. The illustrations, while sometimes overshooting in exuberance, successfully convey Brooks's theatricality and the flamboyance of his comedic style.
Some minor limitations exist in that complex historical contexts are simplified, potentially glossing over nuanced aspects of Brooks’s satirical targets. However, these simplifications are appropriate for the book’s age range, ensuring accessibility without losing the essence of Brooks's approach to humor.
Jason Kirchner's playful illustrations are engaging, complement the narrative, and effectively portray the humor as a form of social commentary. I love the balance Ann created between serious topics and comedic anecdotes. The book is clearly an age-appropriate explanation of Brooks’s life, work, and cultural identity. Teachers and parents will appreciate that the historical or satirical contexts are streamlined for younger readers, leaving them room to decide when and where to delve deeper into Mel's life.
Blazing Humor is highly recommended for young readers (Grades K–5) who enjoy biographies, comedy, or stories about overcoming challenges with creativity and wit. It could be a valuable classroom resource for discussing humor, ethics, identity, and cultural awareness. Children who appreciate theatricality, caricature, or visual storytelling will find this book particularly engaging. Adults reading alongside children will also gain insight into Brooks's life and the enduring power of laughter as a form of resistance, making it a multi-generational read.
Ann Koffsky’s Blazing Humor succeeds as both an engaging picture book and a thoughtful, socially relevant biography. It presents Mel Brooks’s life in a lively, instructive, and entertaining way, highlighting how comedy can serve as both a personal triumph and a cultural critique. This book is a testament to humor’s enduring power to inspire, educate, and empower.
The picture book explores key moments from Mel Brooks's early life, highlighting experiences with bullies, societal exclusion, and cultural challenges. These formative moments are juxtaposed with his later career achievements, illustrating how he used humor strategically to critique injustice and advocate for identity, particularly his Jewish heritage. Koffsky emphasizes laughter as both a personal and societal weapon. The narrative balances levity and depth, encouraging readers to think ethically about comedy, satire, and their broader social implications. Kirschner’s illustrations amplify the story’s energy using bold lines, exaggerated expressions, and vivid colors, evoking both stage and circus aesthetics while mirroring Brooks’s larger-than-life persona.
The picture book explores key moments from Mel Brooks's early life, highlighting experiences with bullies, societal exclusion, and cultural challenges. These formative moments are juxtaposed with his later career achievements, illustrating how he used humor strategically to critique injustice and advocate for identity, particularly his Jewish heritage. Koffsky emphasizes laughter as both a personal and societal weapon. The narrative balances levity and depth, encouraging readers to think ethically about comedy, satire, and their broader social implications. Kirschner’s illustrations amplify the story’s energy using bold lines, exaggerated expressions, and vivid colors, evoking both stage and circus aesthetics while mirroring Brooks’s larger-than-life persona.
Blazing Humor excels at making Brooks’s life accessible to children while weaving in subtle cultural commentary. Koffsky’s approach demonstrates that humor is a form of agency, allowing readers to understand comedy as a deliberate, socially meaningful act rather than merely a source of entertainment. The book’s structure and pacing are vivid and dynamic, aided by the careful integration of visuals that reinforce timing, rhythm, and emotion. The illustrations, while sometimes overshooting in exuberance, successfully convey Brooks's theatricality and the flamboyance of his comedic style.
Some minor limitations exist in that complex historical contexts are simplified, potentially glossing over nuanced aspects of Brooks’s satirical targets. However, these simplifications are appropriate for the book’s age range, ensuring accessibility without losing the essence of Brooks's approach to humor.
Jason Kirchner's playful illustrations are engaging, complement the narrative, and effectively portray the humor as a form of social commentary. I love the balance Ann created between serious topics and comedic anecdotes. The book is clearly an age-appropriate explanation of Brooks’s life, work, and cultural identity. Teachers and parents will appreciate that the historical or satirical contexts are streamlined for younger readers, leaving them room to decide when and where to delve deeper into Mel's life.
Blazing Humor is highly recommended for young readers (Grades K–5) who enjoy biographies, comedy, or stories about overcoming challenges with creativity and wit. It could be a valuable classroom resource for discussing humor, ethics, identity, and cultural awareness. Children who appreciate theatricality, caricature, or visual storytelling will find this book particularly engaging. Adults reading alongside children will also gain insight into Brooks's life and the enduring power of laughter as a form of resistance, making it a multi-generational read.
Ann Koffsky’s Blazing Humor succeeds as both an engaging picture book and a thoughtful, socially relevant biography. It presents Mel Brooks’s life in a lively, instructive, and entertaining way, highlighting how comedy can serve as both a personal triumph and a cultural critique. This book is a testament to humor’s enduring power to inspire, educate, and empower.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Readers of all ages, get ready to smile and laugh! Blazing Humor, Mel Brooks is Seriously Funny, introduces young audiences to the iconic writer and comedian, Mel Brooks. In Mel’s childhood, humor reigns as a family affair, teaching the youngster the value of a laugh for its own sake, for releasing tension and anxiety, and even to disarm a bully. Mel learned early that comedy makes people both laugh and think. As most adults know from Mel’s movies, comedic ridiculousness is used to poke fun at anti-Semitism and other prejudices, and the lessons are inherent between the chortles and guffaws. Older readers will delight in seeing other beloved comedians from a bygone era, as well as the nostalgic look at movie classics such as Blazing Saddles, Young Frankenstein, and History of the World Part I. Though those scenes may not have as much immediate meaning to the younger readers, but it may pique their curiosity enough to watch the beloved classics. This book brings joy to all, much like the comedian himself.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A fantastic way to introduce the next generation to the beloved 100-year-old man, Jewish comedian Mel Brooks! Ann Koffsky’s BLAZING HUMOR is filled with fun facts from Mel’s childhood–like how his mother taught him to handle serious things with humor, and how he used jokes to fend off bullies. When he served in the U.S. military in WWII, he even used humor to stand up to the Nazis! Jason Kischner’s lively and colorful illustrations add to the laughter, spotlighting some of Brooks’ greatest films, like History of the World, Part I, Blazing Saddles, and Spaceballs. Like his mom, Mel knew that humor can be the best way to deal with the serious things that life sends our way. Or in his words: “The only weapon I’ve got is comedy.” (How hilarious that the author’s and illustrator’s photos appear in the audience!) Kids and adults alike will love this tribute to one of the greatest comedians in the History of the World.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this charming book about Mel Brooks, which follows the performer from his childhood all the way to his memorable and award-winning career as an entertainer, comedian, filmmaker... everything! Mel's story will inspire young readers and keep their parents engaged, as well. Mel is written in a way that's consistently relatable, even when he becomes a huge star, and the vignettes from his life feel touching and engaging. I particularly liked the way his Jewish identity was woven into this book. Illustrations are fantastic - lively, colorful, fun, and full of detail and expression. You can tell both the author and illustrator are Mel Brooks fans - the attention to detail is amazing. Definitely a must-read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
BLAZING HUMOR: MEL BROOKS IS SERIOUSLY FUNNY! is a fun and informative picture book biography that introduces young readers to the comedic genius behind classic films like Blazing Saddles, Spaceballs and my favorite, Young Frankenstein. Mel Brooks is truly an American treasure, and this book offers a wonderful glimpse into his life, showing us how he used humor not only to entertain, but to get through tough moments and connect with others through laughter. The team of Ann Koffsky and Jason Kirschner does a fantastic job bringing Mel’s story to life with engaging text and bright, expressive illustrations. This picture book biography is a must-read and would make a fantastic addition to home libraries, classrooms, and libraries everywhere.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Readers will enjoy learning about the inspiration behind one of the funniest creators - Mel Brooks. As author Ann Koffsky writes, “serious things are best handled with humor.” This refrain fills the story with examples of how Mel Brooks used humor to handle challenging situations, and how he became famous for making people laugh. Notes from Ann Koffsky and Jason Kirschner in the back matter provide extra enrichment. Ann discusses how in Mel’s Jewish life, humor was valued as a guiding principle. And Jason explains how he included as many details as possible from Mel’s creations in his illustrations. A must read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Seriously interesting! I learned a lot about the comedian and filmmaker Mel Brooks. The book begins with lots of kid-friendly examples from Mel's childhood, showing how he learned to appreciate humor as well as to use it. Whether his jokes were to diffuse tense situations, unite people, or for just plain fun, we grow to understand that humor can be applied strategically. I really the consistency in his personality, all the way to the end of the book. (Tip: Look for the funny detail in his Hollywood star handprint!)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was thrilled to read this bio of Mel Brooks, one of my favorite comedians and a true American treasure. Readers will love discovering how a kid with a great sense of humor chose to channel it into an incredible career. The author and illustrator do a wonderful job telling the story of Mel's life, covering not only the source and inspiration of his humor but highlighting why humor is such an important tool for tackling serious subjects, which Mel has done throughout his life to perfection. Great book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kids will see how humor connects us, can be made into an occupation, and how it helps during hard times. I didn't know much about Mel Brooks but found the book engaging because of its universal appeal. The fun art and the examples shown from Brooks's life are well-chosen. For example, kids will understand about seeing a scary movie then being afraid of the monster from that film. I like the funny, drawn-out story his mom tells him to turn the situation around. Brooks also rolls with other setbacks and shows us that life doesn't always have to be taken so seriously.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This picture book biography of the famous comedian, writer and actor Mel Brooks, BLAZING HUMOR tells the life story of young Mel Kaminsky (he changes his name to Mel Brooks) and how he learns that humor can make people laugh and learn (think). I love how author Ann Diament Koffsky showed how Mel used humor and comedy to deal with serious topics including bullying, racism, and antisemitism and how laughter can help us be resilient and deal with adversity. The illustrations bring this story to life with a wonderful “scrapbook-like” spread that looks just like Mel’s personal photo album.
April 21, 2026
Every adult I know has at least one favorite Mel Brooks movie scene that immediately starts them laughing before they can even describe it. You know, the one where ... and then they're laughing so hard they can't finish. Now we have Blazing Humor, a wonderful biography written by Ann Koffsky and illustrated by Jason Kirschner to share the life behind all of these wonderful moments! This is a wonderful tribute to a true legend in comedy and since we first read it a few nights ago, I've been reminiscing about so many laughs I shared over the years thanks to Mel Brooks.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A blazingly fun exploration into the influential life of Mel Brooks! This book takes us through Mel's life in a very engaging and sincere way, showing us the ways humor impacted his life and ultimately helped shape his life philosophy. It's filled with specific details and anecdotes that help us understand him as a person, and not just as an icon. A timely message about finding humor and joy even in dark times, and how important humor is in calling out issues and injustices.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If your child is a Mel Brooks fan, or if your child hasn't yet discovered Mel Brooks, this book is for him/her. (And maybe for your child's parents as well!). It's so much fun to read about Brooks' life and how and why he got into comedy, and I love the brief explanation of why humor is so important in the Jewish tradition. The illustrations are terrific as well. I can't imagine that this book won't make you feel its joy. Highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A wonderful introduction to legendary Mel Brooks. Ann Koffsky’s carefully chosen details show us the influences that helped shape Mel’s hilarious sensibilities. These details are rich and will resonate with children, who know better than the rest of us how to play and laugh like Mel. The themes – Mel’s themes – of humor bringing us together and helping us through tough times are especially vibrant throughout the biography. The art wonderfully captures the narrative.
Review of advance copy received from Author
" serious things are best
handled with laughter."
"Blazing Humor" shows just how far laughter and comedy can go to tell very serious stories and to make real change. Fans of Mel Brooks will get an inside look at the man behind the laughter and how he got to be where he was from his early exposure to "scary" movies to his World War II experience to facing a public unused to the power of comedy to discuss very heavy things. This story proves that jokes can both make people laugh and think.
handled with laughter."
"Blazing Humor" shows just how far laughter and comedy can go to tell very serious stories and to make real change. Fans of Mel Brooks will get an inside look at the man behind the laughter and how he got to be where he was from his early exposure to "scary" movies to his World War II experience to facing a public unused to the power of comedy to discuss very heavy things. This story proves that jokes can both make people laugh and think.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another brilliant picture-book biography by Ann Koffsky!! I love the way she has made Mel's story so relatable and easy to understand for kids. The book's message---that "serious things are best handled with laughter"--- shines through in every situation Mel encounters: from monsters and bullies to war, racism, and anti-Semitism.
As an added bonus, it is so fun to see classic movie scenes depicted in the illustrations!
As an added bonus, it is so fun to see classic movie scenes depicted in the illustrations!
April 23, 2026
My new favorite picture book bio! Written with wit that Mel Brooks would have adored, this kid-friendly encapsulation of his life and career provides insights into his use of humor as political commentary. For folks who have seen his films, it's a treat to see the illustrated version of some scenes. I was inspired to look him up—his 100th birthday is in 2026! A wonderful book all around for readers of all ages.
April 29, 2026
Laughter truly can be the best medicine, though it is often the butt of the joke. To write and perform humor is one of the hardest acts of artistry, and Mel Brooks was a legend. This book shares serious moments in his life and history with a light touch that doesn't undermine it. To the author's point -- it makes you feel and it makes you think -- just like Mel's comedy. It's a wonderful book about a "laugh" well-lived!!
May 12, 2026
Just what a picture book biography should be! Blazing Humor by Ann Koffsky is a delightfully funny and inspirational read for everyone. It has perfect entry points for young child readers, showing Mel Brooks' growth from a scared child into a comedy legend while deftly dealing with serious matters with lightness and humor. It teaches young readers a powerful lesson about resilience and the power of comedy. Joy -- and fabulous illustration - on every page.
May 25, 2026
We absolutely loved this book. I have always noticed in my (half) Jewish family, our Jewish family members use humor much more than my non-Jewish family. We felt so affirmed by reading this. It was not only an empowering biography, but a source of cultural pride as well as an amazing reminder of the important universal lesson: humor can help you though serious and difficult things. We can't wait to read this one again and again!
Review of advance copy received from Author
It's about time someone wrote a biography for kids about Mel Brooks! I always like to learn how actors came up with their stage names, which is one of the facts I learned by reading this book. People who already know his movies will appreciate this book, and kids who haven't seen his movies will want to watch them after reading it. Fun and informative.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Incredibly funny and entertaining! The personality of Mel Brooks shines through in this picture book about his struggles, how comedy helped him through them, and how it became a passion that followed him wherever he went and now lives on in his movies for us to adore. A very interesting story about his life and how it all began for this comedic icon!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Blazing Humor is a joyous and insightful picture book that cleverly captures Mel Brooks's life and genius. It frames his iconic humor as a powerful tool to face bullies, prejudice, and fear. The vibrant, detailed illustrations are packed with Easter eggs for fans. It's a celebration of laughter's resilience and a pitch-perfect introduction to a comedy legend for a new generation.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This fun picture book biography highlight's Mel Brooks' childhood surrounded by family who led with humor, inspiring him to want to grow up to tell jokes that made people not only laugh, but think too. Full of real examples of Mel Brooks' humor and jokes, this book will help inspire the next generation of jokesters who want to make a difference.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As someone who’s completely unfamiliar with the legacy of Mel Brooks, I found this picture book biography very informative. It was inspiring to read about how he used humor to bridge the gap between different groups of people, and to diffuse animosity and hate. The book is chock full of hilarious anecdotes from the life of a funny and entertaining man. A must read!
April 8, 2026
Blazing Humor is the inspiring story of the legendary Mel Brooks, and how humor has influenced his life, since he was a little boy all throughout his career as a comedian, actor and filmmaker. Using humor to help work through tough times, and also to elevate happy times is a gift that Mel has brought joy to the world!
April 25, 2026
Blazing Humor is a celebration of laughter and resilience. It’s the biography of the legendary Mel Brooks, offering readers insight to what it takes to thrive, even during hard times, and how humor is more than just for laughs, but a survival tool. A fun, insightful picture book that is a testament to the fact that we all need fun, creativity, and humor in our lives!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I love Mel Brooks' movies, so I think it's great to have a fun and entertaining book to help me introduce my kids to Mel. This book is well paced, funny, and has great illustrations. Highly recommended!
Review of advance copy
Ann D Koffsky made it blazingly fun to learn about an icon like Mel Brooks (aka Kaminsky). This is a wonderful read that gets you giggling with laughter and curious about some of the movies you'd want to see made by Mel Brooks.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews