The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

The Fault in Our Stars is a critically acclaimed YAL novel. I'd seen it mentioned so many times in my Entertainment Weekly magazine that I had to give it a try. I'm glad I did - it was worth the read.

The book is narrated by Hazel, who is a teenager with terminal cancer. She has a dry wit that my students would love. Of course, she meets a boy - Augustus also had cancer but is in remission. The story follows their ups and downs, including their shared love of Hazel's favorite book, which leads them on quite the adventure. I can't reveal too much more without a spoiler alert, so I'll stop there.

Hazel's relationship with Augustus, as well as her parents, is very believable, yet it's not boring. It's easy to see why teens like it, and adults can enjoy it as well. I give this book an 8 out of 10, and I would recommend it to those who like YAL (and don't mind crying a bit).