Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio

The Paisano

Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio

The Paisano

Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio

The Paisano

​Entries of a Book Hoarder: “The Fault in Our Stars”

“The Fault in Our Stars”

Year: 2012

Genre: Young Adult

Author: John Green

Move Release: June 6, 2014

5 bookworms out of 5 bookworms

For fans of:

“Looking for Alaska”by John Green

“My Sister’s Keeper”by Jodi Picoult

“Before I Fall”by Lauren Oliver

“I’m Hazel, I’d say when they’d get to me. Sixteen. Thyroid originally but with an impressive and long-settled satellite colony in my lungs…”

As Hazel Grace Lancaster introduces herself to the readers and her support group, she claims she is there because her mother diagnosed her with depression—which is a side effect of cancer. The #1 New York Times Bestseller, “The Fault in Our Stars,” (TFIOS) is the story of Hazel Grace and her diagnosis. As she sits and listens to her support group, Hazel meets a new friend named Augustus Waters.

Augustus is not in the support group for himself, but to support his friend Isaac. The flirty Augustus then approaches Hazel to invite her to his house to watch a movie. As they are getting to know each other more, Augustus reveals his trials with osteosarcoma, a type of cancer that initiates in the bones. Augustus tells Hazel that he is cancer-free since his leg was amputated.

Throughout the tear-jerker of a novel Hazel builds a friendship with Augustus. They have similar backgrounds and aspirations. As they get to know each other, Hazel starts to fall in love with Augustus, and they experience something they have always wanted to experience—traveling. Although Hazel uses a portable oxygen tank in order to breathe properly, she enjoys her time with Augustus.

John Green’s novel brings tears to readers whether it is a 15-year-old or a 40-year-old. Hazel and Augustus’ story of friendship and love brings the reality of hardships of childhood cancer.

Each of the characters in TFIOS is relatable, because there are many people experiencing exactly what Hazel and Augustus describe in the book. The theme of the novel is the importance of finding yourself during a time of suffering.

“The Fault in Our Stars” is dedicated to Esther Grace Earl. At the age of 12, Esther was diagnosed with metastasized papillary thyroid cancer. Just as Hazel Grace, Esther fought cancer until her death at the age of 16. Although Green claims Hazel is not Esther, his fans find a strong connection between the two.

Esther collected letters, journals and pictures throughout her battle with cancer. When she lost the battle, her family decided to start a foundation called This Star Won’t Go Out. Her family then brought all the letters, journals and pictures Esther collected and published them into a book with the same title as the foundation.

Director Josh Boone will release the movie adaptation of “The Fault in Our Stars” starring Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort on June 6.

As the semester ends, take your time to read Hazel and Augustus’ story, as well as the story of Esther Earl, before it comes to theaters this summer.

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