Be More Chill by Ned Vizzini explores teenage insecurity in a humorous and relatable manner, appreciated for its witty dialogue and unique concept. While some praise its engaging, fast-paced narrative, others critique its portrayal of sensitive topics and underdeveloped secondary characters. Nonetheless, it remains a fresh, thought-provoking take on adolescent struggles.

Fans of quirky, high school narratives with a sci-fi twist like Ready Player One will enjoy Be More Chill by Ned Vizzini. Ideal for readers who appreciate the wit and angst of The Perks of Being a Wallflower and the fantastical elements of Ender's Game. Suitable for young adults who relish humor in their coming-of-age stories.

Be More Chill by Ned Vizzini follows Jeremy Heere, a socially awkward high school student who swallows a pill containing a quantum supercomputer, the SQUIP, which guides him to improve his social status and charm his crush, Christine Caniglia. Through a series of misadventures and moral dilemmas, Jeremy learns the complexities and consequences of blind conformity to social norms. The book includes references to death by suicide and self-harm.

Humorous / Fantastical / Emotional / Contemplative / Suspenseful

- Be More Chill was adapted into a Broadway musical in 2018, which gained a significant following due to a cast album that went viral on social media platforms.
- The book's protagonist, Jeremy Heere, is driven by his desire to be "cool," which leads him to take a fictional technological pill called a "squip," showcasing Vizzini's interest in blending technology with coming-of-age themes.
- Ned Vizzini, the author of Be More Chill, was known for his ability to capture teenage angst and the pressures of high school life, a theme that resonates throughout his works, including It's Kind of a Funny Story.

**Jeremy Heere**  
A high school sophomore with brown eyes and hair, who struggles with social anxiety and self-image issues. He becomes more intertwined with his high school’s social dynamics after ingesting a technologically advanced supercomputer.  

**Christine Caniglia**  
Jeremy’s love interest with blonde hair, who enjoys acting and aims to study psychology. She values good conversation and finds interest in Jeremy’s nerdy comments during rehearsals.  

**Michael Mell**  
Jeremy’s best friend with a tall build and big headphones, passionate about alternative rock music. He values individualism and supports Jeremy even when neglected by him.  

**The SQUIP**  
A quantum computer in pill form, providing Jeremy with advice to navigate high school popularity. It communicates through Jeremy’s mind, using scientific definitions and teenage slang, aiming to help but also causing misunderstandings.

Ned Vizzini

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Be More Chill reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Be More Chill | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Be More Chill 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.

Be More Chill Summary

Background

Be More Chill Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-8

Be More Chill Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-15

Be More Chill Chapters 9-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-20

Be More Chill Chapters 16-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-26

Be More Chill Chapters 21-26 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 27-33

Be More Chill Chapters 27-33 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 34-40

Be More Chill Chapters 34-40 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 41-49

Be More Chill Chapters 41-49 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Be More Chill Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Be More Chill Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Be More Chill Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Be More Chill Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Be More Chill Essay Topics

Be More Chill

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Be More Chill?

Reading Age

Book Details