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.

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.

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

Ned Vizzini

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Fiction

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Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

Explore It's Kind of a Funny Story reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read It's Kind of a Funny Story | SuperSummary

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Overview

Get ready to explore It's Kind of a Funny Story and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

It's Kind of a Funny Story Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Where I’m At”

Part 1 It's Kind of a Funny Story Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, “How I Got There”

Part 2 It's Kind of a Funny Story Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Badoom”-Part 4: “The Hospital”

Parts 3-4

It's Kind of a Funny Story Parts 3-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “Six North, Saturday”

Part 5 It's Kind of a Funny Story Part 5 Summary & Analysis

Part 6: “Six North, Sunday”

Part 6 It's Kind of a Funny Story Part 6 Summary & Analysis

Part 7: “Six North, Monday”

Part 7 It's Kind of a Funny Story Part 7 Summary & Analysis

Part 8: “Six North, Tuesday”

Part 8 It's Kind of a Funny Story Part 8 Summary & Analysis

Part 9: “Six North, Wednesday”-Part 10: “Six North, Thursday”

Parts 9-10

It's Kind of a Funny Story Parts 9-10 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

It's Kind of a Funny Story Character Analysis

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Themes

It's Kind of a Funny Story Themes

Symbols & Motifs

It's Kind of a Funny Story Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

It's Kind of a Funny Story Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

It's Kind of a Funny Story Essay Topics

Introduction

It's Kind of a Funny Story Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

It's Kind of a Funny Story Before Reading

During Reading

It's Kind of a Funny Story During Reading

After Reading

It's Kind of a Funny Story After Reading

It's Kind of a Funny Story

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

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

Reading Age

Book Details