So, after putting this book off for about a month, I cracked into it a week ago and have chipped away ever since when work allows. The book is "The Fault In Our Stars" by John Green, and I already know it is going to destroy me in the wonderful way in which only a book can. I'm only 76 pages in and already I am braced for the ride. I know I will be crushed beneath the weight of whatever climax is to come. The characters are too endearing, the prose too unique. It can't be helped.
When I was reading a litany of books on how to write an effective novel, one central theme emerged: invest in the characters, not the plot. The characters will in time, dictate the plot after they take a life of their own. "The Fault In Our Stars" exemplifies this perfectly.
Whereas some books require some effort and cognitive investment in order to get locked in, this book simply pulls you in without consent. From the beginning I have been swept away. The prose is beautiful and full of character. The dialogue is eccentric in the same way that J.D. Salinger and Wally Lamb forged their own characterized dialogue.
That's all I have for now. Writing about it just makes me want to read it, so I think I will.
Obligatory link to the book:
Training
26 May 2013
Run 2 miles, 16:39
27 May 2013
Run 2 miles, 16:46
Intervals - 30 sec sprint/30 sec job - 8 intervals
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