The Fault In Our Stars review

Book Blurb: Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel’s story is about to be completely rewritten. 

My Thoughts: If I hadn’t already known what kind of a writer John Green is, I probably wouldn’t have read TFIOS. I’m sure glad I did though. 

Hazel Grace suffers from Thyroid cancer that has infiltrated her lungs, making it hard for her to breathe normal on her own. Though not a big fan of Support Group, Hazel goes to the meetings anyways where she meets Augustus Waters, who happens to be best friends with Issac, another member who’s about to become completely blind. After Augustus metaphorically inserts an unlit cigarette into his mouth, Hazel’s curiosity in Mr. Waters draws her into him where they partake in an incredible ride of flirting death, an alcoholic author, and first true love. [And that’s where I’ll stop for my personal description of the book. I am much too afraid to spoil anything]

The dialogue felt honest, even if both of the main characters seemed a bit too mature for someone their age—though I suspect it may have something to do with their experiences with life and death. The pacing was good and each element of the story well-thought out. I was also incredibly glad to see the father being the crier rather than the mom. Hazel's relationship with her parents is believable and an integral part of the story, unlike most YA novels these days. TFIOS was much more than a heart-wrenching love story of trying to avoid the pain of loving someone whose life would inevitably end sooner or later to illness. It was about letting go of your fear, accepting the future, and having the strength to move forward. Be warned though: you might need a box of tissues for this one.

Favorite Lines: “Support Group Hazel not Monica,” I said when he got close enough, and he (Issac) smiled and said, “Hey, Hazel. How’s it going?”

“Good. I’ve gotten really hot since you went blind.”

My Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

If you love John Green's novels, you'll love his and his brother's, Hank, YouTube channel Vlogbrothers.

DFTBA!