Plot Overview: Sixteen-year-old Aza just wants to live a normal life, or, at least, as normal as she can within the confines of her own thoughts. Then, she and her friend Daisy are thrown into a mystery of the billionaire Russell Picket, driven by the motivation of a possible hundred thousand dollar reward. Throughout the novel, Aza’s relationships with her friends, with Davis, and with herself change, and she learns to come to terms with at least some of the confusion of life.

Critique: For me, the most compelling aspect of this book was how it really made me think about life. There were several moments were I had to stop and process what I just read, because a lot of it really changed my worldview. In classic John Green style, Turtles All The Way Down prompts discussion, and also paves the way for existential crises.

I don’t really have much to complain about when it comes to this book. However, the characters were somewhat unrealistic. But, then again, if the characters were super realistic, it wouldn’t have made for a very interesting story. Also, I feel as though the ending was somewhat unsatisfactory. To me, it seemed a bit rushed and forced, and didn’t give me much closure. However, l do see the appeal of having an open ending, so I understand why Green may have done it intentionally.

Cover: I personally am a huge fan of the cover. Even though it doesn’t really reflect the contents of the book, I think it does give a good feel of what the novel is about. The spirals and the text come together in a nice aesthetic.

Star Rating: 4/5

Plot Overview: This book delves deep into the mind of a young girl navigating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and heavy anxiety. Mystery, friendship, and romance are also weaved in as the main character and her best friend go searching for the missing billionaire father of a long lost friend and love interest.

Critique: John Green manages to describe ideas that are seemingly indescribable through his superb, descriptive writing that will not let you put the book down until you finish it.

Recommendation: I recommend this to anyone who has liked other John Green books, is interested in reading about mental health, love, loss, or friendship, and is looking for a captive read.

Star Rating: 4.8/5