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Me and Earl and the Dying Girl

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2012

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Book Brief

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Jesse Andrews

Me and Earl and the Dying Girl

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania • 2010s

Theme
Publication Year

2012

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

820L

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Super Short Summary

Me and Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews follows Greg Gaines, a high school senior who navigates life by staying under the radar while making secret films with his friend Earl. Greg's plan is disrupted when his mom urges him to befriend Rachel Kushner, a classmate with leukemia. Through their evolving friendship, Greg confronts his social anxieties, deals with the reality of illness, and eventually turns his focus toward writing and filmmaking as a means of personal expression and growth.

Humorous

Emotional

Bittersweet

Contemplative

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

3.8

148,170 ratings

54%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

17%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Me and Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews is praised for its authentic, humorous narrative and unique character voices. Readers appreciate its candid approach to serious themes, though some find the humor occasionally insensitive. The book's distinctive style and emotional depth have resonated with many, despite mixed feelings about its handling of sensitive topics.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Me and Earl and the Dying Girl?

Readers who enjoyed The Fault in Our Stars by John Green or Looking for Alaska will likely appreciate Me and Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews. This novel appeals to young adults who favor humor intertwined with poignant, coming-of-age stories centered on friendship and dealing with serious illness.

3.8

148,170 ratings

54%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

17%

Not a fan

Character List

Greg Gaines

A teenage boy who struggles with fitting in, he uses sarcasm and humor as defense mechanisms. He navigates friendship and personal growth alongside making amateur films.

Greg’s filmmaking partner and friend, Earl comes from a challenging background and contrasts with Greg in many ways. He provides Greg with a grounded perspective.

A girl with cancer who forms an unexpected but meaningful friendship with Greg, influencing his emotional development. Her patience and understanding help Greg connect with her.

Greg’s mom, who is actively involved in his social life, urging him to befriend Rachel. She has a strong moral sense and openly expresses her emotions.

Greg’s dad, a quirky professor known for his interest in peculiar foods and obscure films, which he shares with Greg and Earl, helping to inspire their filmmaking.

A teacher at Benson High who stands out for his genuine passion for facts and research. His unique demeanor makes him an ally for Greg during difficult times.

Rachel's mother is protective and concerned about her daughter, working with Greg’s mom to foster Greg and Rachel's friendship. She handles the difficulties of her situation alone.

Greg's longtime crush, whose actions indirectly prompt Greg to further his friendship with Rachel. Her suggestion leads to a significant turning point for Greg.

Greg's sisters, with Gretchen being the "older younger" sister and Grace the "younger younger" one, each exhibiting distinctive, quirky family traits.

The Gaines family cat, known for being philosophical and playing a minor role in Greg and Earl's films due to a lack of other participants.

Earl’s younger half-brothers whose unpredictable behavior makes visiting their home a challenge for Greg, contributing to his fear of unexpected fights.

The authoritative principal with a distinct speaking style, known for organizing school events, including a pivotal one involving Greg.

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania • 2010s

Theme
Publication Year

2012

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

820L

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