Looking For Alaska by John Green

Assignment: #6 of ten narratives
Author: John Green
Publisher: New York : Dutton Children's Books, c2005. 221 p.
Date: 03/16/07
Format/Genre: Realistic Novel
Recommended Grade Level: 9-12th grade
Awards: Best Books for Young Adults, 2006
Micheal Printz Award 2005
Editors Choice: Books for Youth, 2005
Summary: Miles Calvary is a junior in high school. He is known only for his knowledge of famous peoples last words. He decides to go to a boarding school, Culver Creek, to find his place in society. This is also his fathers almamtuer. When Miles arrives he meets his roommate, the Colonel. The Colonel quickly begins to show Miles the ropes Culver Creek. Miles first year at school includes a prank that almost proves deadly, alcohol and cigarettes and meeting new friends Takumi, Lara and the gorgeous Alaska. The story ends in tragedy and the friends are left to figure out what really went wrong.
Comments: This book was a little difficult to get into. When I arrived near the middle of the book I was engaged. I couldn't put it down. The author brought all of the smallest details together and connected them with each character (ex. Alaska- candles, daisies- Miles(Pudge)-famous last words-Colonel-smoke, pranks). This particular novel was John Greens first. I believe that it was drawn out a bit but I will definitely be looking for upcoming books. I believe that YA's could really relate to this book,I know that I did. I experienced love and lost in high school and this book brought all the memories pouring back. When the characters are trying to figure out the whys of Alaska's accident, Green was able to weave in the characters feelings. I truly could feel there pain and sorrow. I give this one two thumbs up.
Booktalking Ideas: Death and the grieving process
VOYA: 5Q 5P