In this post, I am introducing you to The Fault in Our Stars by John Green, a novel that has captivated readers with its poignant storytelling and unforgettable characters. First, we will talk about the genre of the book and how it fits into young adult fiction, romance, and contemporary literature.
Then, we will explore the key characters who bring the story to life, from Hazel and Augustus to the supporting figures who shape their journey. Finally, I will share some thought-provoking book club questions to spark discussion and reflection on the novel’s themes, relationships, and deeper meanings.
The Fault in Our Stars Summary
Hazel Grace Lancaster is a sixteen-year-old girl living with thyroid cancer that has spread to her lungs. She knows her time is limited, and though a medical treatment has bought her a few extra years, she sees herself as a ticking time bomb. Her mother encourages her to attend a cancer support group, hoping she will make friends and feel less isolated.
At one of these meetings, Hazel meets Augustus Waters, a charismatic and confident boy who lost a leg to osteosarcoma but is now cancer-free. Augustus is immediately drawn to Hazel, and the two develop a close bond over books, particularly An Imperial Affliction, a novel Hazel loves because it mirrors the abrupt and unfinished nature of real life. Augustus reads it at her request and becomes just as obsessed with it, especially with its unanswered questions.
Determined to help Hazel get closure, Augustus uses his wish from a foundation—granted to children with cancer—to take Hazel to Amsterdam, where the book’s reclusive author, Peter Van Houten, lives. Hazel is thrilled by the opportunity but also nervous about getting too close to Augustus, fearing that she will hurt him when she inevitably dies.
In Amsterdam, the meeting with Van Houten turns into a disaster. He is rude, dismissive, and unwilling to answer their questions. Disappointed but not defeated, Hazel and Augustus make the most of their trip, visiting the Anne Frank House and sharing their first kiss. Their love deepens, but Augustus reveals devastating news—his cancer has returned, and it has spread throughout his body.
Back home, Augustus’ condition deteriorates rapidly. Hazel stays by his side, witnessing his physical decline while cherishing the time they have left together. In his final days, Augustus asks Hazel and their friend Isaac to write eulogies for him before he dies, wanting to hear their words while he is still alive. Hazel tells him she loves him and that she is grateful for the small infinity they shared.
After Augustus passes away, Hazel receives a letter from Van Houten, who explains that Augustus had reached out to him before he died. Augustus had written Hazel a eulogy, expressing his love and belief that their story was meaningful. As Hazel reads his words, she lies on her back, looking up at the sky, and quietly accepts her fate, knowing that love and loss are intertwined.
The Fault in Our Stars Summary Characters
Here are the main characters in The Fault in Our Stars:
- Hazel Grace Lancaster – A 16-year-old girl with thyroid cancer that has spread to her lungs. She is intelligent, introspective, and has a dark sense of humor. She views herself as a “grenade” who will eventually hurt those she loves.
- Augustus “Gus” Waters – A 17-year-old cancer survivor who lost a leg to osteosarcoma. He is charismatic, confident, and deeply philosophical. He falls in love with Hazel and is determined to make the most of the time they have together.
- Isaac – Augustus’ best friend, who has eye cancer and eventually becomes blind. He provides comic relief with his sarcastic humor but also experiences heartbreak and loss.
- Peter Van Houten – The reclusive and bitter author of An Imperial Affliction, the book Hazel adores. Hazel and Augustus travel to Amsterdam to meet him, only to be disappointed by his rude and dismissive behavior.
- Frannie Lancaster – Hazel’s mother, who is deeply caring and supportive. She wants Hazel to live a full life despite her illness.
- Mr. Lancaster – Hazel’s father, who is emotional and tender, always trying to stay strong for his daughter.
- Mrs. Waters – Augustus’ mother, who is loving and nurturing, though she struggles to accept the reality of his condition.
- Mr. Waters – Augustus’ father, who is supportive but less vocal than his wife.
Related: Touching Spirit Bear Summary
Book Club Questions
Here are some discussion questions for a book club reading The Fault in Our Stars:
- How do Hazel and Augustus view life and death differently?
- What role does An Imperial Affliction play in Hazel and Augustus’ relationship?
- How does Hazel’s relationship with her parents evolve throughout the novel?
- Why do you think Augustus is so fixated on leaving a legacy?
- How does Isaac’s story add to the novel’s themes of love and loss?
- What did you think of the trip to Amsterdam? How did it change Hazel and Augustus?
- How did you feel about Peter Van Houten’s character? Did your opinion of him change by the end?
- The book includes many philosophical discussions—did any particular idea resonate with you?
- How does humor function in the novel, despite its heavy subject matter?
- What did you think of the ending? Did it leave you satisfied or wanting more?
- How do you interpret Augustus’ letter to Van Houten and Hazel’s reaction to it?
- If Hazel had been the one to pass away first, how do you think Augustus would have handled it?
- The novel explores different kinds of grief—how do the characters experience and cope with loss?
- How does the book challenge or reinforce common portrayals of illness in fiction?
- If you could ask John Green one question about the book, what would it be?
For related works, check out our Young Adult Novels section!
Final thoughts
I hope you have enjoyed this discussion on The Fault in Our Stars and that it has given you a deeper appreciation for the novel’s themes and characters. If you haven’t yet read this book, I highly recommend picking it up—it’s a beautifully written story that explores love, loss, and the meaning of life in a way that stays with you long after you turn the final page.
