“Looking for Alaska” by John Green involves 16-year-old Miles Halter who has the ability to memorize people’s last words.
Upon arriving at Culver Creek in search of adventure, Miles makes a circle of new friends, including his roommate and scholar, Chip “The Colonel” Martin; Takumi, a humorous Japanese-American rapper; and Romanian-born Lara, who has trouble pronouncing the letter “i”. Best of all, he meets Alaska Young who is attractive, yet emotionally, unstable.
Miles is introduced to drugs, bad language and drinking but manages to resist them. Although he grows fond of Alaska and tries to help her with her problems, he is reluctant to tell her how he feels.
When a tragedy occurs, readers are left to spend the rest of the book trying to make sense of it and solve the mystery it leaves behind.
“Looking for Alaska” is relevant to teens for its thought-provoking, moving characters. Readers will understand the lesson the story tells. Although the characters often behave inappropriately, they are vividly real and engaging with their stories of loss and self-discovery.
This novel is recommended for mature young adults due to adult situations and some objectionable language. It is a worthwhile read that will captivate readers for its unpredictable plot and life lessons.
“Looking for Alaska” allows readers to ponder the true meaning of life- to cherish and live every moment of it despite its challenges.
