The Fault in Our Stars

Every once in a while, I'll pick up a young adult novel, usually after hearing many positive reviews. I find them relaxing, and if you get a good one, very entertaining.

The Fault in Our Stars far surpassed my expectations. This is a touching story about the relationship between two teenagers battling cancer. John Green offers an intimate portrayal of the struggles and the stamina required to fight this terrible disease.

The fact that the people in the midst of this battle are just 16 years old makes the story all the more poignant. But it's about more than survival; it's about friendship and love in the face of heartbreak. This book is a tear-jerker and an excellent Book Club choice. It's also a movie adaptation.

The beloved, #1 global bestseller by John Green, author of The Anthropocene Reviewed and Turtles All the Way Down.

"John Green is one of the best writers alive." -E. Lockhart
"The greatest romance story of this decade." -Entertainment Weekly

Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel's story is about to be completely rewritten.

Insightful, bold, irreverent, and raw, The Fault in Our Stars brilliantly explores the funny, thrilling, and tragic business of being alive and in love.

1. John Green derives his title from Shakespeare's Julius Caesar: "The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves." Why did Green alter this? How does the meaning change?

2. How would you describe Hazel and Gus? How do their personalities and outlooks complement each other?

3. How do Hazel and Gus each relate to their cancer? Do they define themselves by it, ignore it, or confront life's unfairness in different ways?

4. Some descriptions of pain and medical realities are graphic. Did these add authenticity or distract from the story?

5. Hazel says, "Cancer books suck." Is this a cancer book? How did it compare to your expectations?

6. Does John Green convincingly write from the perspective of a teenage girl?

7. Why is An Imperial Affliction so important to Hazel? Have you ever felt that way about a book?

8. What did you think of Peter Van Houten, the fictional author? Why might Green admit affection for such a flawed character?

9. Green once served as a hospital chaplain. How does the idea of a "hero's journey within illness" apply to Hazel and Gus?

10. What role does humor play in the novel? Is it effective or inappropriate?

11. How does the novel explore the search for meaning in life and death?

12. How do Hazel and Gus change over the course of the book?

13. Was this book too tragic to read, or did you find it uplifting?

Living with cancer is hard for anyone, especially a teenager. This story explores hardships faced by two teens and provides opportunities to discuss young love, death, resilience, and living life to the fullest. It is an emotional read and a terrific Book Club choice.