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It's Kind of a Funny Story

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2006

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Book Brief

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Ned Vizzini

It's Kind of a Funny Story

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2006
Book Details
Pages

444

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 2000s

Publication Year

2006

Publisher

Disney-Hyperion

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

620L

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Super Short Summary

It's Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini follows the protagonist, Craig Gilner, a high school student from Brooklyn, who checks himself into a hospital's adult psychiatric ward after struggling with intense academic pressure and mental health issues. Over his five-day stay, Craig navigates his anxiety and depression, finds a supportive community, rekindles his passion for art, and gains a renewed sense of hope and purpose. The novel includes themes of suicide, mental health, and references to drug use and sexual abuse.

Emotional

Humorous

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.3

260,888 ratings

76%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Ned Vizzini's It's Kind of a Funny Story poignantly captures the struggles of teen depression with humor and authenticity. Reviewers praise its relatable characters, genuine depiction of mental health, and engaging narrative. However, some criticize it for overly simplistic resolutions. Overall, it's a compelling read that resonates with young adults and beyond.

Who should read this

Who Should Read It's Kind of a Funny Story?

A reader who would enjoy It's Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini is likely a teenager or young adult interested in realistic fiction that explores mental health. Fans of novels like The Perks of Being a Wallflower or Looking for Alaska will appreciate its honest and humorous approach to serious issues.

4.3

260,888 ratings

76%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Craig Gilner

A 15-year-old, thin, nerdy protagonist who stays at Six North and loves film trivia, navigating his journey with mental health and relationships.

Craig's high school peer, dating his best friend Aaron, half Chinese and half Jewish, known for her bubbly and outgoing nature.

Craig's only friend entering high school, sharing a love for film trivia; he struggles with his own family issues and personal growth.

A tall and skinny static character who offers unwavering support to Craig, encouraging his mental health journey and reflective habits.

Craig’s short and glasses-wearing father, using humor as a coping mechanism, he supports Craig’s treatment while growing more understanding.

Craig’s nine-year-old sister, a mix of wise encouragement and childhood innocence, understanding Craig’s mental health more intuitively than some adults.

A teenage patient at Six North with blond hair, initially communicates with signs, sharing a candid perspective on her experiences.

A long-time resident at Six North, welcoming Craig with a calm presence despite his own ongoing struggles with mental illness.

Craig's reserved and professional therapist, known for her “psych-poker face” and impactful discussions around Craig's assumptions and decisions.

A collective of diverse individuals with unique histories in mental illness who accept and create a sense of belonging for Craig.

Book Details
Pages

444

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 2000s

Publication Year

2006

Publisher

Disney-Hyperion

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

620L

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