Slowly, And Then All At Once • The Fault in Our Stars

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
Publisher: Dutton Books
Publication Date: January 10, 2012
Source/Format: Bought || Hardcover

Sixteen-year-old Hazel Grace is currently in remission for thyroid cancer, but her diagnosis at 13 changed everything - her high school life, her friendships and even her relationship with her parents. One day at her cancer support group, she meets Augustus Waters - and that moment defines what happens next in her life. Through various ups and downs, shenanigans and conversations, Hazel rediscovers what's important, what's real and, of course, falls in love.

The problem I have with writing my review of The Fault in Our Stars is that so much has already been said about this book. I feel like I would just be reiterating everything that I’ve already read or seen on someone else’s blog by doing this post. But I love John Green – he’s brilliant and unique and totally awesome – and I do feel like I really want to pay tribute to him through this review. 

This is the third John Green book that I’ve read, and it has temporarily replaced An Abundance of Katherines as my favorite. It may be a typical reaction, considering that there are so many people who love this book as much as I do. But I think it’s a testament to how amazing this book is. 

The Fault in Our Stars reaches all kinds of readers (and even non-readers), handles a delicate subject matter gracefully and with good humor, and is written in the trademark witty rhythm that Green has down pat. In the end, despite all our individual differences, many readers will enjoy this book because it’s so moving. 

Unlike many who have read the book, I didn’t end up in tears – but that doesn’t mean that I wasn’t deeply, profoundly moved by what I read because I definitely was. Instead, I found that I laughed out loud quite a bit while I was reading, which I definitely wasn’t expecting. It’s rare that a book will have me beaming and actually laughing out loud, and so, credit must be given to this story for doing just that. 

One thing that I completely agree with when it comes to the many reviews I’ve read – Augustus is such a character and I don’t just mean literally. He’s just got such an amazing presence, as evidence by the fact that he truly leapt off the pages. I was won over by his kindness, his positivity and just how gosh darn sweet and genuine he came across. And I love the fact that we get to see the grittier, realer, more nervous and insecure side of him at times. There is so much to Gus and I love that he felt so real to me. 

The Fault in Our Stars is beautifully written, showcasing a story filled with warmth, authenticity, positivity and lots of hope. I highly recommend it, and truly think that many readers will come away from the novel just as I did – lighter, happier and a whole lot more hopeful about life.