Looking for Alaska by John Green (Realistic Fiction)

Looking for Alaska by John Green is a story about an awkward, introverted teenager named Miles Halter who doesn’t have any close friends. In search of a fresh start, he goes off to boarding school. He uses the term “the great perhaps” to describe the feeling he gets when he zones out and daydreams about what he wants his life to be like. He also has an obsession with famous last words, which stems from his fear of ending up unsatisfied with his life. At his new boarding school, he meets a group of friends who take him under their wing and allow him to become more confident. He develops a connection with them and starts to experience all the “great perhaps”s he dreamed about. As he begins to find himself, a tragic event occurs, leaving him depressed and invalidated. Throughout his recovery he loses hope several times, but ends up coming to the conclusion that although times can be rough, it’s important to persevere, because fulfillment will come along eventually.

Overall, I loved this book. The issues it discusses are very meaningful, and Miles is sketched out in such a relatable way. It does a great job of portraying Miles’s feelings through his inner dialogue. Although he might seem average from an outsider’s perspective, he comes off as intelligent and introspective from the readers’ point of view. The story explores his journey towards being able to express these aspects of himself. Honestly, I only had a few problems with the book, one being that the side characters weren’t fleshed out as well as I’d have liked. I feel like they were often used as plot devices for Miles’s growth instead of individuals who change throughout the story. Anyways, this is a personal issue and many people may enjoy the side characters, as they are very likeable and charismatic. I would have to recommend Looking for Alaska to all teenagers, as most are bound to relate to some aspect of Miles’s story. It really made me think about the hidden amazing qualities in all of us, and how care from others can help us become our full selves. 

Reviewed by Lydia W., Grade 10.