I have never liked romantic novels because they have always seemed far-fetched and distant. I have always been more of a fan of historical and drama fiction, in which romance might be just one of the many elements. So when I picked up The Fault in Our Stars, my expectations were not very high. I would not say the book exceeded my expectations, but it is one of the best novels I have read recently.

The Fault In Our Stars is based on the lives of Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, both teenagers who are battling cancer from a very young age. During one of her cancer patient support group meetings, Hazel meets Augustus, who takes an immediate liking for her. During their first meeting, they decide to read each other their favorite novel. While Augustus recommends Hazel, The Prince of Dawn, Hazel tells him to read An Imperial Affliction, her favorite book. Hazel likes this book because she feels it mirrors her life as a cancer patient in the perfect manner. She is, however, stricken by the ending of the book as it does not provide any closure to the reader.

Through a wish-granting charity organization for cancer patients, Augustus can arrange for a trip to Amsterdam for himself, Hazel, and her mother so that she can meet the author of her favorite book. But when they arrive there, they realize that Van Houten has no intentions of entertaining them. Disappointed, they return home, but not before Hazel and Augustus fall deeply in love with each other. The novel has a couple of rapid twists and turns, which ends with Hazel discovering the true meaning of love, loss, pain, and recovery.

The Bigger Picture

Many things about this book are commendable and impressive. The first and foremost is the style of writing that John Green employs. It is pretty straightforward. That is why he is one of the most famous writers of young adult fiction books. Though he does falter a bit in making his characters seem relatable, he makes you question many things about your life. He has very nicely interspersed humor with tragedy. This task is not easy, especially when writing a tragic love story. In short, the author has a way of stringing together words and sentences that can magically pull at your heartstrings.

Another fantastic fact about the book is that it helps you empathize with people suffering from terminal diseases. It also allows us to comprehend the amount of agony and torture that their family and friends go through when someone they love is diagnosed with such problems. Lastly, what I also liked about the book are the small vital lessons about life, mortality, pain, and suffering that are cleverly woven into the story.

Ultimately, I might not consider Augustus and Hazel as incredible characters. But I did, to a great extent, sympathize with their situation and the difficult choices that they had to make. A profoundly heartfelt and engaging read, I would recommend A Fault in Our Stars to anyone suffering from any terminal disease or watching a friend or family member battle it. It will encourage them and strengthen them in their fight. It is also a good recommendation for those who like reading books in the Young Adult Fiction category. (Considering its immense popularity, I am sure you would have already read it).

Some infinities are more significant than other infinities.

Final Verdict

I do not read many YAF books, but I greatly enjoyed this one. This is mainly due to the author’s crisp, efficient, and precise writing style. John Green is a gifted author, and I look forward to reading more of his works.

The world of Augustus and Hazel might seem implausible, but the story has many small yet essential lessons for everyone. Most importantly, we cannot control our situations; we can always choose how we react.

So, did you like The Fault in Our Stars? How did you feel after reading it? Feel free to comment below and tell me your thoughts about the book.