47 pages • 1 hour read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
304
Novel • Fiction
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania • 2010s
2012
YA
14-18 years
820L
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
148,170 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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.
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.
148,170 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Earl Jackson
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.
Rachel Kushner
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.
Marla Gaines
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.
Victor Gaines
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.
Mr. McCarthy
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.
Denise Kushner
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.
Madison Hartner
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.
Gretchen and Grace Gaines
Greg's sisters, with Gretchen being the "older younger" sister and Grace the "younger younger" one, each exhibiting distinctive, quirky family traits.
Cat Stevens
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.
Maxwell and Brandon Jackson
Earl’s younger half-brothers whose unpredictable behavior makes visiting their home a challenge for Greg, contributing to his fear of unexpected fights.
Principal Stewart
The authoritative principal with a distinct speaking style, known for organizing school events, including a pivotal one involving Greg.
304
Novel • Fiction
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania • 2010s
2012
YA
14-18 years
820L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.