Born Standing Up (Scribner, $25) Give the gift of inspiration. Steve Martin’s long-awaited autobiography tells the story of a hard-working funny guy whose modern take on comedy in the ’70s—mixed with perseverance and a philosophical flair—made him one of the biggest touring comedians in history.
Heeere’s Johnny (R2 Entertainment, $100) This new
Tonight Show collection spans Johnny Carson’s 30-plus years over 18 hours of clips. Give a pal the “Stand-up Comedians” disc—featuring sets from 20 guest comics, including George Carlin, Rodney Dangerfield and Garry Shandling—and keep the other ten DVDs.
Comedy Cellar gift certificate (117 MacDougal St between Minetta Ln and W 3rd St, 212-254-3480) The good thing about this Village institution is that you can show up on any night and be guaranteed a good show. And since you can’t predict when Dave Chappelle will drop by, it’s kind of like giving your friend a lottery ticket too.
Dundie Award (nbcuniversalstore.com, $20) Show loved ones that they’re appreciated in a wholly inconsequential way with a Dundie, the chosen motivational tool of The Office’s Michael Scott. This replica even comes with six different back-handed–compliment placards, including “Whitest Sneakers Award.”
D*ck in a Box (
nbcuniversalstore.com, $15) Although this gag from the infamous Justin Timberlake “
SNL Digital Short” is self-explanatory, there is one aspect worth highlighting: The box’s hole comes in five circumferences, ranging from “Teeney-Weeny” to “King Size”—so your gift will reveal nothing of your assumptions.
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