The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

Wow.  It's been a while since I read a book that had me in tears.  This story was incredible, beautiful, moving, and sad.  It's a reminder that when it comes to your life, it's quality that matters and not quantity. 

Hazel is a teenage girl battling lung cancer.  She lives her life knowing how it will end, and tries to make as few connections as possible to keep things from being complicated.  She has a couple friends, her parents, and acquaintances from her cancer support group she attends.  But one day at support group, she meets Augustus.  They have an instant connection, and even though she fights it, they form a close bond and a serious relationship.  I can't say much without giving away the story, but it's truly a great story.

I had been told by MANY friends to read this book and it was really never on my radar.  It wasn't until I was browsing the ebooks for the KC library that I saw it and decided to put it on hold.  I got an email this week saying it was ready to download, and I finished it within 48 hours.  It's the type of story that you just can't put down.  It's also refreshing to read a story that's real, with the honesty of teenagers and the reality of cancer.  If you are one for super happy endings or predictable plots, this book isn't for you.  However, if you want to read something that will touch you and force you to think about the relationships in your life, you'll love it.

The biggest impact in reading this book is realizing how lucky I am in my relationships.  I'm fortunate enough to be married to my high school sweetheart, and barring any unforeseen circumstances, we will stay that way for a very long time.  I've also had close calls with both parents, and they are now healthy.  That's an easy thing to take for granted, but after reading about Hazel and Augustus, I can't help but feel blessed.

 

<3, jacq