One sentence summary
The Fault in Our Stars is an emotionally devastating tale of two star-crossed cancer patients in search of hope and love.
Book genre
This book is a contemporary love story and young adult novel written by John Green.
Main topic of the book
The main topic of the book is coming of age and dealing with adversity in the face of impending mortality.
Key ideas
- Life in the face of mortality: this story follows two teenagers, Hazel Lancaster and Augustus Waters, as they grapple with their cancer diagnoses, the pain and heartache that comes with it, and the hope and beauty that also exists.
- Living and Loving: Despite their illnesses, Hazel and Augustus go on a journey to find meaning and purpose in their lives through love and acceptance.
- Unconditional Love: This story illustrates the importance of loving without boundaries—from parents to peers and all those in between.
Main parts of the book and a short summary
Part One: Hazel and Augustus meet in a support group for cancer patients and begin a relationship as they face their mortality together. Both come to terms with the depression that stems from their illnesses—and the hope that they find in each other.
Part Two: Hazel and Augustus search for a miracle, and embark on a journey to Amsterdam in search of a cure. Their love grows as they share moments both poignant and light-hearted.
Part Three: This section ends the story with both a sense of tragedy and hope as they come to terms with their mortality and ultimately decide to live in truth and unconditional love before it’s too late.
Key takeaways
- Life is unpredictable and fragile, but it’s also infinitely precious and worth cherishing.
- No matter what obstacles we face or how difficult the situation may be, it’s courage that makes us keep going and find hope.
- Love is the ultimate cure, and the greatest gift. It has the power to transcend boundaries of all kinds and bring us peace.
Author’s background and qualifications
John Green is a New York Best Selling Author and YouTube personality who has written several novels including The Fault in Our Stars. He is an active member of the Vlogbrothers where he and his brother, Hank Green, discuss a variety of topics and create YouTube videos.
Target audience
This book is intended for young adults and readers who are looking for an emotionally compelling story of courage and resilience in the face of adversity.
Publisher and first publication date
The Fault in Our Stars was first published by Penguin Group in 2012.