While I consider myself an avid reader, it’s not too often that I come across a story that moves me to tears. However, I’ve been a big fan of young adult fiction writer John Green since high school and his latest novel, The Fault in Our Stars, is without a doubt one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. It is one that left me with tears in my eyes and a smile on my face.
Green introduces us to Hazel Grace, a teenage cancer patient whose parents force her to attend support group with other kids coping with cancer. There, she meets Augustus Waters, with whom she quickly falls in love. Without giving anything away, I will say that the novel takes the reader through their collective struggle with cancer and the realities of loving someone with an aggressive disease. The book serves as a beautiful reminder to live life to the fullest and to take advantage of every opportunity, every moment.
I appreciate good writing. However, I readily admit that with so many books out there and in only 21 years of life, I haven’t read nearly enough to know what truly classifies as “good writing.” What I do know is that Green has a way of saying exactly what I think, in ways that I would never think to say them. I literally found myself reading, saying “YES!” and because of that, he pushes me to want to become a better writer. Reading TFIOS, I felt every emotion: joy, sadness, relief, anger: a depth and wealth of emotions that I hope to one day pen myself.
TFIOS has received rave reviews since its release in early 2012. The New York Times called it “a blend of melancholy, sweet, philosophical, and funny,” and says that “Green shows us true love…and it is far more romantic than any sunset on the beach.” NPR stated, “The Fault in Our Stars proves that the hype surrounding Green is not overblown.” Shortly after its release, Fox 2000 signed on to adapt the novel for the big screen, which is set to premiere in summer 2014. It’s been recently announced that Shailene Woodley of ABC Family fame will be playing Hazel, and Ansel Elgort will play Augustus. While I’m having a hard time picturing Woodley as Hazel, I’m hoping she’ll be able to rise to the challenge of portraying such a strong, memorable character. I can already say I’ll have my midnight tickets purchased well in advance.
When asked about his novel becoming a film, Green said, “That is something I never expected to happen in my life because I don’t write the kinds of books that make big Hollywood movies, but I’m so, so grateful and excited.”
Speaking for Green fans everywhere, we’re excited, too. I can only hope that I’ve convinced everyone else to read the book first.
Sources:
johngreenbooks.com
shelf-life.ew.com