It’s Kind of a Funny Story, except, it isn’t. Ned Vizzini is the author of this book focusing on the dark subject of teen suicide and mental health, focusing on a 15-year-old depressed boy named Craig Gilner. In the beginning of the book, we meet Craig and his friends, who encourage him to smoke pot and drink alcohol, which alters Craig. His main focus is to get into Executive Pre-Professional High School, where the workload is heavy and only the smartest of all kids learn. After his acceptance, he starts to struggle with life.

He eventually is checked into a psych hospital where he stays to get better. The book follows his time there, the friends he makes, and how he gets better. This book follows a real issue that is growing more apparent every year – teen suicide. Vizzini channels his real life experiences to write this book, as he spent time in a psych hospital himself.

This book is relatable to all students, especially anyone who is depressed or has a loved one or a friend dealing with depression. Vizzini helps readers learn about depression and how to deal with the side effects, either for themselves or their friends.

It’s Kind of a Funny Story is a great, quick read. If you’re looking for a book, I recommend snatching it up right away or adding it to your ‘Books to Read’ list.