Book Review : “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green.

 “My thoughts are stars I cannot fathom into constellations.”

The book novel 

Source : Wikipedia

The Fault in Our Stars is a novel by John Green that combines a teenage love story with philosophical reflections on life, illness, and death. The genres of this book are realistic fiction, drama, romance, and coming-of-age. This book is suitable for teenagers and adults who are experiencing difficulties in their harsh lives. Green writes in a sharp, emotional, yet light style.

The novel follows the story of Hazel Grace Lancaster, a 16-year-old girl with thyroid cancer and breathing problems due to the spread of her disease, and Augustus Waters, a charismatic and humorous former bone cancer patient. They meet at a cancer support group, and their relationship develops through conversation, favorite books, and life-changing journeys. 

The chemistry between Hazel and Augustus feels natural. Their conversations are funny, honest, and meaningful. They are not a clichéd, forced couple, but rather two people trying to live normally even though circumstances don't allow it. Green's realistic approach to the disease does not glorify cancer. Hazel's symptoms, limitations, and fears are portrayed as they are, without making her a “tragic victim” who is only to be pitied.

The movie

Source : Wikipedia

Despite its heavy theme, many of the dialogues make readers smile. Augustus' humor and Hazel's cynicism actually make readers care more about them. This novel is full of reflective quotes about the meaning of existence, the fear of being forgotten, and the idea that even a short life can still have its own “infinity.”

This story raises themes of love, suffering, and how to deal with death in a very realistic way, but also full of humor and heartwarming philosophy.

Love as a form of resistance against transience. Fear of being remembered and forgotten. Accepting that life is not always fair. Opening oneself up even though one knows they will be hurt. John Green navigates these themes with poetic language, yet remains accessible to both teenage and adult readers.

The novel's main strength lies in the characters of Hazel and Augustus, who are incredibly strong and positive despite facing extraordinary injustice in life. John Green successfully writes a serious story about illness and death in a light and entertaining style, without losing the depth of family drama and complex emotions. The novel also features fresh and meaningful dialogue that advances the story, as well as an honest and easy-to-digest writing style. The dialogue is strong and memorable. The main characters are unique, not clichéd. The emotions feel real, not manipulative. The pacing is just right and not drawn out. The ending is powerful and memorable. In addition to its strengths, this novel also has some weaknesses. Some of the dialogue feels “too wise” for the characters' ages (a characteristic of Green's writing). Readers who dislike the young-adult romance genre may find it too melodramatic.

Overall, “The Fault in Our Stars” is an emotionally charged realistic fiction novel, presenting a beautiful yet bittersweet love story, as well as a profound reflection on life and death with a captivating and deeply memorable narrative style for its readers. This book became a No. 1 New York Times Bestseller and also won the Children's Choice Book Award for Best Teen Book of the Year (2013). “The Fault in Our Stars” succeeds in making its readers laugh, think, and ultimately cry. It is not just a story about cancer, but about the courage to love even though you know it could all end at any moment. A touching and worthwhile read, especially for those who enjoy love stories with emotional depth.

By : Naufal Risma Andreansyah (30802300012)