Paper Towns

by John Green

[shannonmiz]

Full review HERE!

I have read that it is similar to some of Green's other books, especially Looking For Alaska, but I haven't read that yet, so who cares? (Kidding. I am sure this is pertinent information, I just don't happen to be able to provide you with it yet. Sorry.)

Anyway, I had bought this one on sale, figuring I'd give it a chance. I read it in between some dark and dismal dystopian books, and I know I read this at the right time- my mind was due for a contemporary, and due for some lighter moments.

Not to say the whole book is light, no, that isn't the case. But, it is set in this world, you know, the one with cars and electricity and food and shit. I like that world sometimes. And, if I am being honest (and totally showing my age) it reminded me of when I was in high school, and I loved remembering that time. No, I didn't run around looking for some strange girl, but I had some wonderfully eclectic friends, and that absolute belief that what was happening right then was the most important thing in my life. Because it kind of was.

The best part of this book is the characters. Sure, Q is great, but his friends, oh, his friends just make the book. I could read about them all day. Nay, I would read about them all day. John Green, get on that, please and thank you. You could just call it "Radar and the Black Santas" and I would be game. There, I've named your book. Go forth and write.

There were quite a few things that resonated with me throughout this book:
1. Q longed for something, and actually went after it (and you know, dragged his friends along). I have always wanted to be "that" person, and for Q to be was kind of awesome.
2. Margo should seek a large amount of mental health counseling before she enters the real world, because guys like Q aren't going to be chasing after her forever.
3. I LOVE Road Trips.
4. The ending worked for me. I don't usually love that type of ending (no, I am not telling you what happened!), but it just plain worked for me. I can't say much more, but it was fitting, appropriate, and contented me.

Bottom Line: Just read the book. And then do me a solid and read Looking For Alaska and let me know about that comparison thing. I jest, I will read it myself and let you know. Promise.