“The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green – A New Beginning at the End

I think it wouldn't be too far-fetched to say that the concept of death is one which has captivated the minds of humans unlike any other subject out there. It comes for everyone at one point or another, yet not a single person truly knows beyond all doubt what happens when one dies. 

There are many attempts to provide an explanation for what happens beyond the realms of death, but they are all conjectures; until someone finds a way to come back from the beyond and tell us what’s up on the other side, we’re relegated to mere hypotheses. 

In any case, regardless of what we all think about, it is without question most of us dread the day the reaper will come for us… while for some it may be quick and painless, for others it can be a whole different story. Such is the case of Hazel, a young woman who is terminally-ill with cancer, in John Green’s novel, The Fault in Our Stars.

With Hazel’s final chapter being pretty much set in stone, she sets out to live the rest of her days and fulfill herself as much as possible. However, one day she happens to a meet a man who goes by the name of Augustus Waters at a Child Cancer Support group. From there on out, Hazel’s life takes a very sudden and unexpected turn: she once again has a reason to live, to look forward to waking up tomorrow.

Contrary to what my description of this book’s story may depict, it isn't as much of a tragic tear-jerker as you would expect. Of course, there is some of that, but the book mainly focuses on Hazels’ rediscovery of love, complete with all kinds of moments, ranging from emotionally-exerting ones all the way to light comedy. 

While the ending may not be the happiest one, it does have a feel-good ending to it… it seems that John Green took to heart what Abraham Lincoln said: "It's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years". 

All in all, even though this isn't typically my kind of novel, I did enjoy this heartwarming story while it lasted, and the way I see it, it’s a good read for the holidays, especially on those dark and snowy days.

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John Green  Personal site John Green is an American author who mostly specializes in young adult fiction novels such as Looking for Alaska and The Fault in Our Stars. He also runs an online blog through YouTube, and in 2006 he was awarded the Printz Award for his debut novel.