When a book is turned into a movie there are a few things that are almost always true. The book is better, a new group of individuals who may have never considered reading the book are now able to enjoy the story and join it's ever expanding fan base, and the lists of critics will be never ending.

I'm not big on reading YA. So I fit in the middle category. I have not yet seen this movie but without it I can honestly say I never would have read this book. Which would have been a great loss because the great love story of Hazel and Augustus is one that should be known. They are my teenage Wesley and Buttercup. A greater and truer story of love loss than Romeo and Juliet.

Fate would have it that a few weeks ago I stumbled upon and devoured The Red Band Society. Watching it gave me some insight on Gus's type of cancer and in my mind I kept picturing Charlie Rowe aka Leo as Gus. Nothing against Ansel I've just haven't seen him in action yet. However I do adore Shailene Woodly so picturing her as Hazel was easy.

My mom and minister are both cancer survivors. Both were diagnosed as adults and did the chemo/surgery thing and have moved on. But my childhood friend was diagnosed in her early twenties and died less then a year later. Seeing what she went through and reading this story of of these three friends (can't forget about Issac) is one of the most raw and true views of what this disease does to a person and their relationship with others.

I did not sob outright but I did cry multiple times during this book. I got goosebumps and my heart fluttered. I can't wait to see this movie. Hopefully I can get my self absorbed 13 year old to sit with me so she can understand it's not just a love story it's a story of life, death, and creating your own infinity.



I liked that they kept it real and admitted that not everyone is brave until the end. I imagine most people go through an asshole stage, an angry stage, and feelings of loss. I don't think there are enough words to express how much this book touched me. I don't want to focus on the characters like many others do because there is a movie trailer that can package this love story in 3 minutes.

But I will say that this is a story that will stay with me for the rest of my life.