The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green is a heartbreaking but ultimately uplifting love story between two young cancer patients. The story follows the lives of Hazel and Gus, two teenagers who meet at a cancer support group, and quickly fall in love. Their love story is fraught with struggle, as they battle the physical and emotional ravages of cancer, and must learn to come to terms with their uncertain futures.

The Fault in Our Stars is set in present day Indianapolis, where sixteen year old Hazel is living with terminal cancer. She has had her cancer for a few years, and is resigned to her fate, no longer trying to find a cure. Instead, she attends a cancer support group, where she can talk to other teenage cancer patients and cope with the difficult effects of the disease. At one of these meetings, she meets Augustus Waters, a seventeen year old with his own battle against cancer. Augustus has already lost his leg to cancer, and is now facing a growing tumor in his other leg. He is charismatic and full of life, in contrast to Hazel's wry pessimism. Despite their differences, they quickly connect and form a strong bond.

Hazel and Gus make it their mission to journey to Amsterdam to visit a reclusive author, who is the only writer that Hazel truly admires. As they travel, their relationship deepens, and they both come to terms with the fact that their time together will eventually end. Hazel must also learn to stop pushing away those who love her, and instead be willing to accept their support.

Despite the gravity of the themes explored in the novel, The Fault in Our Stars never crosses the line into depressing territory. Instead, each moment of darkness is coupled with moments of joy and humor, making the characters and the story much more relatable. From the dimly lit support group meetings, to the bright and airy tulip fields of Amsterdam, the story creates a unique and unforgettable atmosphere.

John Green writes with realism and understanding, pulling the reader into their journey. Filled with pain, hope, humor, and so much love, this is a story that will stay with the reader long after they turn the last page. It is a poignant reminder that life is fragile and love is strong, and that even in the midst of tragedy, beauty can be found.