 |
| Image from The High Tea Cast |
I am usually pretty wary of teen fiction, especially
anything a Twihard would recommend. I am however a huge fan of the VlogBrothers
and have always admired John Green. I decided last week to give The Fault in Our Stars a try.
Hazel is a cancer survivor who prefers staying home and
reading to going out with friends. Her
mother believes she is depressed and therefore sends her to a teen cancer
support group. Hazel has a very low opinion about the support group until the incredibly
handsome and witty Augustus Waters arrives.
The book could easily have strayed into the territory of A Walk to Remember and focused solely
upon the developing relationship between these two star-crossed lovers. John
Green however depicts a much greater tale. He probes the feelings of a teenager
experiencing the painful recovery process, their fears of remission and their anxieties
of what happens after their eminent deaths. He examines their often strenuous relationships
with their tired parents, clueless relatives, and flighty friends.
 |
| Image from Shooting Stars Mag |
The Fault in Out Stars
is nevertheless not a cancer book. Hazel and Augustus are challenged to infuse
their lives with power and meaning. They are not merely victims- they have
agency. They are given the choice to take up arms and become the epic heroes of
their own tales. John Green gives us a story
not only of survival, but presents us with quest to live out the end of our
days with passion and determination.
I read this book in an airport and received several glances
as I laughed and cried out loud. It is a worthwhile novel and brings me hope
for the future of teen fiction. Thank you, John Green.
For another excellent book review check out Paste Magazine
No comments:
Post a Comment