Hello Bloggerbeans,

I finally finished this months March Essentials book read and need to let all you guys know how much of a poignant novel it was to read. Throughout I was intrigued to know more about Craig Gilner and find out who he is and by the end didn't want to leave him and his world. This book does contain themes of depression and suicide so is more aimed towards a older young adult audience compared to other books I have recommended in the past.

The synopsis of the story involves 15 year old Craig Gilner and his struggles through getting through Pre Professional High School which leaves him overwhelmed to the point he is admitted to an adult psychiatric ward due to the Teen ward being up for renovation. Here he meets a mixture of characters as Craig comes to terms with his depression and problems or 'tentacles' as he refers to them. Its about finding out how to live when all you can think about is dying which is sometimes incredibly hard.

Ned Vizzini does an amazing job of covering such hard hitting subjects in such a way which makes you feel immersed in a world full of  quirky and unique characters each with their own story to tell. Prior to writing this book Ned actually was admitted to a psychiatric ward himself in his early 20's due to his severe depression and unfortunately committed suicide in 2013. Ned does something incredible and turns a sad story of one boys struggle into a comedy making jokes about life and finding yourself when you are on the edge of falling for death. It's such a beautifully written book which really resonated with me as Craig often felt how I have felt at times which made the book more real for me in a way. The ending of the book was also incredibly real to anyone suffering from depression as like Craig states is so easy to relish back into old habits but once you find the light you need to keep it on by finding what keeps you happy and afloat in life or 'anchors' as Craig refers them to no matter how small. Its about doing and pursuing what makes you happy and I suppose blogging is that for me. There is always hope and sometimes you find glimmers of life even in the darkest of times.

You can purchase 'It's kind of a Funny Story' for £8.71 on Amazon HERE