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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.

If you liked It's Kind of a Funny Story, here are the top 100 books to read next:

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Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1

    The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
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    The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is a coming-of-age novel that follows the life of Charlie, a high school freshman who navigates through the complexities of teenage life. The story is uniquely told through letters written by Charlie, allowing readers to delve into his inner thoughts and emotions as he grapples with issues such as friendship, love, loss, and self-discovery. The narrative captures the essence of being a teenager in the early 1990s, touching on themes of loneliness, mental health, and the challenges of growing up.

    The book portrays Charlie's journey as he forms relationships with his peers, including the charismatic Patrick and enigmatic Sam, who help him navigate the ups and downs of adolescence. Through Charlie's introspective observations and poignant reflections, readers are drawn into a world of teenage struggles and triumphs, ultimately leading to a powerful and emotional exploration of identity, acceptance, and the complexities of youth.

    I am writing to you because she said you listen and understand and didn’t try to sleep with that person at that party even though you could have. Please don’t try to figure out who she is because then...

  2. #2

    All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven
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    'All the Bright Places' by Jennifer Niven is a young adult novel that follows the story of Finch and Violet, two teenagers who meet on the ledge of a bell tower at school. Their unlikely friendship leads them on a journey to discover the natural wonders of Indiana, but also helps them uncover deeper truths about themselves and each other. The book delves into themes of mental illness, grief, and the complexities of teenage emotions, portraying a poignant and heart-wrenching tale of love, loss, and self-discovery. Niven's writing style intricately weaves together the characters' struggles and emotions, creating a narrative that is both moving and thought-provoking.

    Finch and Violet's relationship evolves from a chance meeting on the bell tower to a profound connection that helps them navigate their personal challenges and find reasons to live. The book explores the depths of their characters, portraying their vulnerabilities, fears, and moments of hope with raw honesty. Niven's storytelling captures the essence of teenage emotions and the complexities of mental health issues, offering a compelling narrative that resonates with readers and leaves a lasting impact.

    This is something I ask myself in the morning when I wake up. In third period when I’m trying to keep my eyes open while Mr. Schroeder drones on and on. At the supper table as I’m passing the green be...

  3. #3

    Turtles All the Way Down by John Green
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    Turtles All the Way Down by John Green is a contemporary young adult novel that delves into the struggles of a teenage girl, Aza, who battles severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) while navigating relationships and attempting to solve a mystery involving a missing billionaire. The book skillfully explores the complexities of mental illness, friendship, and family dynamics, portraying the internal torment and external challenges faced by the protagonist with authenticity and insight. Through eloquent writing and a dual narrative of personal struggles and a gripping mystery, Green crafts a poignant story that sheds light on the realities of living with mental health issues.

    The narrative in Turtles All the Way Down is enriched by John Green's trademark writing style, which combines philosophical reflections, poignant character dynamics, and introspective moments. The book offers a compelling exploration of themes such as anxiety, OCD, friendship, and identity, capturing the essence of teenage angst and the nuances of mental health struggles. Through a blend of heartfelt storytelling and realistic portrayals of characters, Green weaves a narrative that resonates with readers, evoking empathy and understanding for the challenges faced by individuals grappling with mental illness.

    AT THE TIME I FIRST REALIZED I might be fictional, my weekdays were spent at a publicly funded institution on the north side of Indianapolis called White River High School, where I was required to eat...

  4. #4

    Girl, Interrupted by Susanna Kaysen
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    In the book "Girl, Interrupted" by Susanna Kaysen, readers are taken on a journey through the author's stay at a mental institution in the 1960s. The narrative provides a raw and honest insight into Kaysen's experiences, offering a glimpse into the mind of a young woman diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. The writing style is described as lucid and profound, with short, focused chapters that delve into Kaysen's life during her time at the psychiatric hospital and the period following her release.

    Kaysen's memoir not only sheds light on her personal struggles but also raises questions about the definitions of sanity and insanity, challenging societal norms and perceptions surrounding mental health. Through vivid portrayals of fellow patients and caregivers, the author paints a detailed picture of life within the psychiatric ward, showcasing both the horrors and moments of introspection that shaped her perspective on mental illness and recovery.

    The worst was that she was always caught and dragged back, dirty, with wild eyes that had seen freedom. She would curse her captors, and even the tough old-timers had to laugh at the names she made up...

  5. #5

    Challenger Deep by Neal Shusterman
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    Challenger Deep by Neal Shusterman is a poignant and raw portrayal of a young man's descent into mental illness, specifically schizophrenia. The book alternates between Caden's reality and his hallucinatory world on a ship, blurring the lines between the two and providing a unique insight into his struggles. Through Caden's narrative, readers are taken on a journey through the depths of psychosis, hospitalization, and the impact of mental illness on both the individual and their loved ones. Shusterman's writing style delicately balances the harrowing nature of the story with moments of hope and compassion, creating a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and enlightening.

    My family and I go to Las Vegas for two days while they tent our house for termites. I draw in my sketch pad for the whole drive, and get carsick. One step short of vomiting. Which, I suppose, makes m...

  6. #6

    The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
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    The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath is a haunting and beautifully written novel that delves into the descent of Esther Greenwood into madness and depression. The story follows Esther, a young woman with a bright future, as she struggles with her mental health, ends up in a psychiatric ward after a suicide attempt, and navigates her way back to normalcy. Plath's writing style is described as poetic, vivid, and sparse, perfectly capturing the delicate yet powerful essence of the subject matter.

    The book provides a raw and honest portrayal of depression, mental illness, and the societal pressures faced by women in the 1950s America. Plath's storytelling is poignant, dark, and at times morbidly funny, offering a deep insight into Esther's internal struggles and the challenges she encounters on her journey towards self-discovery and recovery.

    It was a queer, sultry summer, the summer they electrocuted the Rosenbergs, and I didn’t know what I was doing in New York. I’m stupid about executions. The idea of being electrocuted makes me sick, a...

  7. #7

    Girl in Pieces by Kathleen Glasgow
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    'Girl in Pieces' by Kathleen Glasgow follows the story of a 17-year-old girl named Charlie Davis who struggles with self-harm, coming from a background of abuse, homelessness, and loss. The book delves into Charlie's journey of recovery as she navigates through her past traumas and strives to build a new life for herself. The writing style is described as raw, lyrical, and emotionally impactful, portraying the harsh realities of self-harm and mental illness with honesty and depth.

    The plot of 'Girl in Pieces' is characterized by darkness and hope, highlighting the everyday struggles of individuals dealing with addiction and mental health issues. Through Charlie's narrative, the author effectively addresses themes of self-harm, suicide, abuse, drugs, and alcohol, shedding light on the importance of kindness and support in healing. The story is praised for its emotional depth, realistic portrayal of flawed characters, and the message that it conveys about resilience and the power of finding a support system.

    The bus is a giant, lumbering monster filled with sadness and stale air. In each town, it shits us out for twenty minutes, two hours, three, it doesn’t matter, it’s all the same: a diner, a convenienc...

  8. #8

    Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig
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    Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig is a memoir that delves into the author's personal battle with severe depression and anxiety. The book is described as a compassionate, kind, and heartfelt discussion of mental health issues, offering insights into Matt Haig's own experiences and struggles with depression. The writing style is noted to be honest, raw, and personal, providing a mix of memoir, self-help advice, and reflections on dealing with the challenges of mental illness.

    I HAD GONE days without proper food. I hadn’t noticed the hunger because of all the other crazy stuff that was happening to my body and brain. Andrea told me I needed to eat. She went to the fridge an...

  9. #9

    Prozac Nation by Elizabeth Wurtzel
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    Prozac Nation by Elizabeth Wurtzel is a memoir that delves into the author's struggle with depression, offering a raw and honest account of her battle with mental illness. Wurtzel narrates her experiences with atypical depression, detailing her personal journey from childhood through her time at Harvard, and her eventual reliance on Prozac to manage her condition. The writing style is described as poetic and beautifully capturing the complexities of depression, providing readers with an intimate look into the author's inner turmoil and emotional struggles.

    I start to get the feeling that something is really wrong. Like all the drugs put together—the lithium, the Prozac, the desipramine, and Desyrel that I take to sleep at night—can no longer combat what...

  10. #10

    Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
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    Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher is a poignant and emotional story that delves into the aftermath of a high school girl's suicide, Hannah Baker. The narrative unfolds through 13 cassette tapes left behind by Hannah, each detailing a reason that led her to take her own life. Clay Jensen, a classmate who had feelings for Hannah, receives the tapes and embarks on a journey of self-discovery as he listens to the stories of those who wronged Hannah. The book explores themes of bullying, the impact of rumors, teenage struggles, and the consequences of our actions on others.

    The writing style of Thirteen Reasons Why is described as gripping, emotional, and thought-provoking by readers. The dual narrative shared by Hannah and Clay Jensen works brilliantly, providing insights into the characters' inner thoughts and emotions. The book skillfully navigates dark themes such as suicide, betrayal, and loneliness, offering a raw and honest portrayal of the challenges faced by teenagers in high school.

    A decade after the publication of Thirteen Reasons Why, there are moments I vividly remember about the creation and writing of this book. I remember pulling into a gas station parking lot, panicked th...

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