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The theater was practically empty on a Tuesday afternoon during a storm. But Carolyn and I didn’t mind. We both forgot our Kleenex, so she slipped out just when Augustus and Hazel got to Amsterdam knowing full well we would both need napkins. Why do we do this to ourselves? Yet we were both gloriously sobbing. Cleansing or stupid?
I warn my students when they have to read Where the Red Fern Grows in the summer between 5th and 6th grade, “Do not read the end in public. Close yourself into your room and get under the sheets.”
Carolyn and I both read the book. We knew what was coming, but we watched anyway. And loved it. I don’t really understand why, except that humans are like this. We want to love, and we want to watch others fall in love. I was right there with Hazel and Augustus. I don’t even know the actors’ real names.
Literature and good movies move us. They reveal to us the faults, the beauty, and the sadness of life in a way that is safe. We can crawl under the covers and read the book, wipe away the tears, and move on. Move on in a better way, more full, heart attuned to life. The leaves look greener somehow.
I don’t know if you should go see The Fault in our Stars, but if you do, your heart will swell and you will cry, but as Augustus says to Hazel, “Oh, I don’t mind, Hazel Grace. It would be a privilege to have my heart broken by you.” It is a privilege to have your heart broken by The Fault in our Stars.
Reflections on the Teche 
I really want to see it, will probably have to go alone. Few of my friends want to see it because of its heartbreak. I love that you used Augustus’ quote at the end. It does certainly apply for me. Thanks, Margaret.
I lucked into getting Carolyn to go with me. None of my family would go, and you can’t take any friend going through their own grief. But you should go. It’s so good.
Ahhh, I love that movie. I’ve seen it twice…cried both times. The thing is I feel hopeful at the end, after all of the crying! 🙂 So glad you enjoyed it!
It is best not to be packed into the theater to view this movie. I don’t know why, but sometimes I do love a heartbreaking story. Crying does cleanse.
I didn’t read the book yet but I loved the movie and I loved seeing it with a theater filled with teen girls who were sobbing along with me. Too bad I didn’t have it to teach 🙂
You must read it. John Green is a master. I would not teach it to any grade lower than high school.
A friend of mine and I went the day it opened and the theater was packed! I agree with Bonnie; it was quite an experience seeing it with a theater full of readers!
I first learned about John Green when I attended the 2012 National Book Festival and coerced a friend to go early to the session before Lois Lowry’s so we would be sure to have a seat. Imagine our surprise to find the tent packed with enthusiastic teens and young adults eager to listen to John Green. I read mostly intermediate titles, but I had to see what inspired such a following and promptly read The Fault in Our Stars. I hope to see the movie soon.
My mother introduced me to John Green. Did you see the Colbert Report last night? John Green is a funny guy. I would love to see him in person!
I am still waiting to find someone to go with me. Might have to go alone.I will remember to take tissues with me.