April begins with the celebration of fools, and when one searches for fools in literature, one never has far to go. Fiction's fools are of the laughing-on-the-outside, crying-on-the-inside variety, and their tales blend a turbulent mix of comedy and drama. Set in worlds of history or fantasy, these books appeal to fans of stories filled with humor (often bawdy), twisting plots, and characters who use their wits as weapons in navigating the corridors of power.

The 1959 historical classic KING'S FOOL by Margaret Campbell Barnes (Sourcebooks Landmark. 2009. ISBN 978-1-4022-1902-3. pap. $14.99) tells the story of Henry Tudor from the perspective of young Welshman Will Somers, a real but little-known historical figure. Henry, impressed by Will's puckish wit, names him king's fool. Will is present through all the dramatic events and marriages of Henry's reign. He's forever on dangerous ground--permitted, even expected, to make humor from cruel truths about Henry and his court. Will stands by Henry, but his devotion to Katherine of Aragon and young Mary makes their friendship bittersweet. His love for Joanna, highborn daughter of his mentor, adds romantic flair.

The first title in Alan Gordon's "Fool's Guild" series, THIRTEENTH NIGHT (Mystery Company, 2004. ISBN 978-1-932325-03-4. pap. $14) imagines a 13th-century...