"The Fault in our Stars" (2012) by John Green REVIEW

This book was highly recommended to me by so many of my friends. I looked it up after first hearing it only to find out it is a Young Adult romance (ugh!). After avoiding it for so long, I just caved in and bought it. I seriously regret not reading it earlier.

16 year old Hazel Grace Lancaster has been diagnosed with lung cancer since she was 12 years old. Knowing that death is inevitable and will come sooner rather than later, she chooses to shut herself from the world so less people will be affected by her death. Unfortunately, her mom thinks otherwise. Hazel is forced to go to a cancer support group every week where one day she meets a guy who couldn't stop staring at her: Augustus Waters. Quickly connecting, the story moves on about Hazel's relationship with Augustus, learning some things about life along the way.

Sounds like a book for girls, but believe me, guys can enjoy it just the same. Hazel's character as a narrator was truly well-written and each character had their own response to the world. The philosophy John Green gave the characters in their dialogue is amazing and quotable, the story was fantastic, partially funny, and traumatically sad. Trust me, it gets sad.

"The Fault in our Stars" is a Young Adult novel done right. It's mature enough for adults to not feel dumbed down by two-dimensional characters and basic writing, yet simple and relatable enough for the target audience to enjoy it even further. I am honestly surprised that this book has made it into my list of favorites and am excited to see the movie.

Rating: 15+ For some sensuality, language, and rude humor

5/5 Stars

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Kevin Lau

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