Reading Log #1

"It's so hard to talk when you want to kill yourself"(Vizzini, 1). The application of this harsh, but seemingly valid statement opens up the story and basically says it all. It not only grabs the reader's attention, but also locks him/her in.  It's Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini is told through the voice of a near teen suicide victim, Craig, who admits himself into the adult psychiatric hospital. There, he encounters a girl with self-inflicted cuts on her face and a transsexual sex addict. By comparing his "tragic life" to that of his new neighbors, he quickly becomes cognizant of the fact that his life is satisfactory and that he should be grateful for the love and attention he continuously receives. The book explores Craig's inner most thoughts and trepidations about his life. By entering the hospital, he receives the opportunity to competently confront all of his worries and figure out what his next step is in order to make "the shift" into a new and healthier lifestyle.
The structure of the book consists of ten parts, three being background insight of the events leading to the overwhelming depression of Craig and the other seven following the lively events occurring each day he resides in the hospital.This convenient break-down of time conveys the vast amount of change that one can experience in such a minuscule period of time.
Craig confides in his therapist, Dr. Minerva. A reoccurring theme comes into play during their sessions: the idea of "tentacles and anchors"(Vizzini, 307). Craig describes tentacles as people, activities, or events in his life that cause him anxiety and restrain him from living a normal lifestyle. His anchors are things in his life that never change and are always reliable. The problem with this is that Craig doesn't have any anchors to help keep him balanced or keep him sane. Although the terms are somewhat childish, the idea is applicable and relates to most lives. Most people have other things or people that they are tied to, but can't seem to cut the rope from. Those things may drive them to a point of delirium so it is important that they have "anchors" to provide a sense of harmony.
Overall, It's Kind of a Funny Story, creates a sense of hope and comic relief about a grave topic. By following the immature, yet insightful thoughts of a young teenage boy, the novel compels the reader to dig deep within his/her memories to relate to this character undergoing a profound metamorphosis. Craig not only exhibits courage to confront his issues, but also acts as a role model and provides hope for readers who may battle depression and wish to seek help.