Who Would Like This Book:
Ned Vizzini’s semi-autobiographical tale is refreshingly honest, tackling depression and anxiety with a mix of raw vulnerability and humor. The main character, Craig, is authentic and relatable, making the book an eye-opener for anyone who’s ever struggled with high expectations or overwhelming pressure. The story offers an inside look at a psychiatric ward, full of quirky and memorable characters, and turns what could be a dark subject into something ultimately uplifting. Fans of real, character-driven YA, coming-of-age tales, and those seeking empathetic, sometimes funny takes on mental health will especially find this engaging.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers were put off by what they saw as an overly speedy and convenient recovery for Craig - five days in a psych ward leading to newfound hope might feel unrealistic for those familiar with the realities of mental illness. A few were uncomfortable with the way certain aspects of mental health and self-harm are depicted. There are also criticisms of outdated language and questionable representation concerning transgender characters. If you’re looking for a deeply clinical, unfiltered portrait of depression or are sensitive to issues of portrayal, this may not hit the mark for you.
About:
Craig Gilner, a high school student struggling with depression and stress, checks himself into a psychiatric hospital after having suicidal thoughts. During his stay, he forms relationships with other patients and embarks on a journey of self-discovery. The book portrays Craig's experiences in the adult psychiatric ward, highlighting themes of depression, teenage struggles, and finding hope amidst darkness. Ned Vizzini's writing style is described as insightful, humorous, and emotional, offering a unique perspective on mental health issues faced by teens.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include discussions of depression, suicidal ideation, self-harm, substance use, and mental health issues.
Has Romance?
It includes a medium level of romance, exploring Craig’s interactions with peers, particularly Noelle.
From The Publisher:
Like many ambitious New York City teenagers, Craig Gilner sees entry into Manhattan's Executive Pre-Professional High School as the ticket to his future. Determined to succeed at life-which means getting into the right high school to get into the right college to get the right job-Craig studies night and day to ace the entrance exam, and does. That's when things start to get crazy.
"Intimate, real, funny, ironic...This book offers hope in a package that readers will find enticing.", Booklist
"Insightful and utterly authentic...this is an important book.", The New York Times Book Review
At his new school, Craig realizes that he isn't brilliant compared to the other kids; he's just average, and maybe not even that. He soon sees his once-perfect future crumbling away. The stress becomes unbearable and Craig stops eating and sleeping-until, one night, he nearly kills himself.
Craig's suicidal episode gets him checked into a mental hospital, where his new neighbors include a transsexual sex addict, a girl who has scarred her own face with scissors, and the self-elected President Armelio. There, isolated from the crushing pressures of school and friends, Craig is finally able to confront the sources of his anxiety.
Ned Vizzini, who himself spent time in a psychiatric hospital, has created a remarkably moving tale about the sometimes unexpected road to happiness. For a novel about depression, it's definitely a funny story.
"Funny? Vizzini supplies personal insights and a clever, self-deprecating tone that make the book an entertaining read." - The Washington Post
Ratings (112)
Incredible (20) | |
Loved It (39) | |
Liked It (23) | |
It Was OK (18) | |
Did Not Like (6) | |
Hated It (6) |
Reader Stats (340):
Read It (127) | |
Currently Reading (3) | |
Want To Read (147) | |
Did Not Finish (2) | |
Not Interested (61) |
1 comment(s)
1.5**
What can you read after
It's Kind of a Funny Story?
About the Author:
Ned Vizzini began writing for "The""New York Press" at the age of fifteen. At nineteen, he had his first book published, "Teen Angst? Naaah." Ned is also the author of "Be More Chill," the first young adult novel ever chosen as a Today Show Book Club pick, as well as one of "Entertainment Weekly's" Top Ten Books for 2004. Ned lives in Brooklyn, New York.
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