Powerful Lessons
If you have a teenager in your house, you have heard about The Fault in Our Stars. Bestselling author John Green’s fifth novel has sold millions of copies, won critical praise, been translated into 47 languages, and the movie adaptation is now in theaters everywhere. The book and the movie have captivated audiences of all ages.
A few years ago, I picked up a manuscript and began reading it (this was before the official release). I wasn’t too far into the book when I realized its power. It’s a story about two teenagers, told from sixteen year old Hazel’s point of view. She is dealing with a cancer diagnosis and meets Gus, another teenager, in a cancer support group. It explores many powerful life lessons. No matter how brief our time may be here, we have the ability to live it to its fullest.
I had the opportunity to interview John soon after the book was released. It was so new that he didn’t want to give away the plot. In this interview, hear John Green:
- Explain how he writes authentically from a 16 year old girl’s perspective
- How he and his brother work to combat “world suck”
- Whether he has a secret plan on social media (he has millions of devoted followers)
- Why he once licked a cat
- And, in one of my favorite answers ever, John did give a true “elevator” speech about the book (must see)
Life Lessons
I often write about leadership, success, and life lessons. All of John’s books are filled with quotes on these important life themes. Here are a few lessons from this book:
Today matters.
Search for love.
No matter how much time we have, we can impact others and the world.
Life is a struggle.
Find your authentic voice.
We all face challenges. Who we become is often based on how we handle what comes our way.
Enjoy the little things.
In a storm, you can handle much more than you think possible.
Wisdom is possible at any age.
John Green Quotes
Here are a few John Green quotes that will likely have you reflecting from this book and a few of his others:
