Skip to content Skip to section navigation Skip to site navigation
Reviews

Reviews

Meledy, Roving reporter

The Fault in Our Stars

John Green
(Penguin)

To be honest, I feel like there is nothing I could possibly write that would justly relay to you how amazing The Fault in Our Stars is.

I’m serious! I strongly recommend you stop reading this review and go read the book. You’re not convinced? Fine.

Hazel is sixteen years old. She’s smart, sarcastic, funny and thoughtful. The only problem is, her lungs "suck at being lungs."

Because of her illness, Hazel can’t see much point in leaving the house, but her mum still forces to go to a support group she doesn’t enjoy. That is, until Augustus Waters, a seemingly "in no way unacceptable" 17-year-old shows up and befriends her.

Look, I know what you’re thinking: "Wait, the main character’s sick? I don’t want to read a book that’ll make me sad!"

Believe me, though, The Fault in Our Stars is worth the tears.

Yes, the book is undeniably about cancer and dealing with the prospect of death, but it’s also about life and love, and every theme is dealt with in an interesting and thoughtful way. Making you feel bad or guilty obviously wasn’t on the author’s to-do list.

In fact, I’m sure my parents in the next room were kept awake by my involuntary laughter! I don’t think I have ever read a book so witty and honest.

In my opinion, The Fault in Our Stars isn’t the story of Hazel’s illness. It’s the story of Hazel.

You see, John Green (whose previous books include Looking for Alaska and Paper Towns) has a way of making his characters seem real, more than text on a page, and this skill is extremely apparent in The Fault in Our Stars. I mean, this novel is still occupying my thoughts long after I turned the final page.

The only reason I can think of for not reading The Fault in Our Stars is that it may prove difficult to find a book that lives up to it!

I just really want to give John Green a massive hug and sincerely thank him for writing such a beautiful book. And then tie him to a chair and force him to write a sequel.

5 out of 5.

For more book reviews, check our our Reviews Archives.

Articles Written by Meledy

  • The Hunger Games
  • Catching Fire
  • The Hunger Games
  • Mockingjay

    • Reviews written by Meledy

  • The Hunger Games
  • Catching Fire
  • The Hunger Games
  • Mockingjay



    • BACK TO MORE REVIEWS

    Share >

    Disclaimer
    The content of these stories and articles are provided for information and entertainment purposes only. The views expressed are those of our roving reporters/editorial team members and do not necessarily reflect those of the Victorian Government. While every endeavour is made to ensure the currency, accuracy and authenticity of content, it can not be guaranteed. The Victorian Government does not accept any liabilities for any loss, damage, cost or expense you or others might incur as a result of the information or advice (or the use of it) on this website or in the articles. People using the site should undertake responsibility for assessing the relevance and accuracy of its content.