The Fault in our Stars

Green, J.  (2012).  The fault in our stars.  New York, NY:  Dutton Books.  Hazel Lancaster is 16 and has thyroid cancer.  It has spread to her lungs, so she is forced to carry around an oxygen cart.  Her parents insist that she attend a cancer support group.  There she meets Augustus Waters, who is a cancer survivor.  He shows her true friendship and love.  Augustus gives up his one wish to take Hazel to Amsterdam to meet the author of her favorite book because her desire is to find out what happened to the characters after the book ends.  The author proves to be a jerk, so they return home.  Before returning, Hazel learns that Augustus’ cancer returns.  After he dies, she finds out that he wrote her a eulogy and sent it the Peter Van Houten, the author.  She finds comfort in reading it and knowing that her parents will go on with their lives even after she dies.  I truly loved the writer’s style of writing.  I did expect to be so emotional with this book.  I would recommend this book to students of a high school age or above.  I do not feel that younger students would be mentally ready to comprehend some of the topics discussed in the book.  I think students reading this book can learn about the acceptance that death is a part of life and not be so afraid of it.  I think some of the topics discussed in by Green are mainly for a more mature audience.  I do not think little kids would understand emotional development level would allow them to understand the feelings Hazel must face since they have not experience it themselves.  I think the older student will be able to connect, when Hazel says she is like a “grenade” because she would cause pain with those around her when she dies.