It's Kind of a Funny Story
winner of the Best Book for Young Adults by the ALA (2007)
This coming-of-age story is about Craig, a fifteen year old boy dealing with feelings of overwhelming pressure, depression, and suicidal ideation, which places him (somewhat unknowingly) in the adult section of the mental wing of his local hospital. During his five day stay within this program, Craig meets and befriends a variety of other adults and teens who are also trying to manage their mental health. It is within this program that Craig comes to accept his true passions and begins to find, explore and appreciate life’s little gratitudes.
This novel addresses many common themes in teen literature — academic pressure, social anxiety, unrequited love and family expectations. Drawing from his own experience, Vizzini finds ways to balance the visceral details about mental health symptoms with a sense of humor. Craig’s journey is not about “losing at life,” but instead encourages gaining perspective and developing empathy, lessons that the reader can learn as well.
There is also a film adaptation of the novel, but I personally found it simplified, less funny. Many important aspects of the story are cheapened and fall short. It is unfortunate to note that the author did take his own life almost a decade later, although I hope it does not deter readers from seeing/valuing the ultimately positive message of the novel.
LOOKING FOR MORE? (OR SOMETHING ELSE?)
Why don't you...
- Try a Paint by Numbers kit as a relaxing craft
- Listen to some music to sleep or soothe psychic anxiety
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