June’s book: The Fault in our Stars by John Green.

Penguin, January 2013.

Here’s the blurb:

“I fell in love the way you fall asleep: slowly, then all at once.”

Despite the tumour-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel’s story is about to be completely rewritten.

The Fault in our Stars explores the funny, thrilling, and tragic business of being alive and in love.

Laura’s Verdict:

This book wasn’t what I expected at all. I have to admit that I didn’t read the blurb before starting the book – I wanted to read it based on the title.

This book made me laugh, smile, sad and cry. Hazel and Gus were great characters to get to know and it’s an interesting look at how these two teenagers form a relationship around having to battle cancer – the outcome for Hazel inevitable. Augustus and Hazel’s relationship shows that sometimes people come into your life when you least expect but sometimes when you need them most. They were sweet characters.

The subject matter is hard going yes but it’s tackled well and with great humour at various points too.

There were certain plot points I saw coming but some surprising ones too. I couldn’t put the book down (despite having other things to do.)

I think Augustus was my favourite character. He just seemed interesting, sweet and likeable. Although mysterious at the beginning, you do learn a little about him toward the end.

Conclusion: I loved this book.

What did you think? Did you like the characters? Who would you cast in the lead roles?

by

Laura

I’m Laura. I started Novel Kicks in 2009. I wanted a place to post my writing as well as give other writers like me the opportunity to do the same. There is also a monthly book club, a writing room which features writing prompts, book reviews, competitions, author interviews and guest posts.

I grew up by the sea (my favourite place in the world) and I currently live in Hampshire. I am married to Chris, have a cat named Buddy and I would love to be a writer. I’m trying to write the novel I’ve talked so much about writing if only I could stop pressing delete. I’ve loved writing since creative writing classes in primary school. I have always wanted to see my teacher Miss Sayers again and thank her for the encouragement. When not trying to write the novel or writing snippets of stories on anything I can get my hands on, I love reading, dancing like a loon and singing to myself very badly. My current obsession is Once Upon a Time and I would be happy to live with magic in the enchanted forest surrounded by all those wonderful stories provided that world also included Harry Potter. I love reading chick lit. contemporary fiction and novels with mystery.