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Looking for Alaska is still one of the most important stories ever told

BBG News

I often find myself re-reading my most cherished books, much like others might repeatedly watch their favorite films and series. Time constraints may be an issue, but certain narratives hold such significance that they warrant frequent revisits. For me, John Green’s “Looking for Alaska” holds a special place as one of those unforgettable reads.

This week, on March 3rd, the book celebrated its 20th birthday, and I had plans to pen a lengthy critique about my wish for a distinctive 20th anniversary edition instead of a version resembling the 10th anniversary one. However, it feels more captivating now to ponder why this particular book remains so significant. Granted, it may be more impactful than many of Green’s other works, but let me explain before you jump to conclusions.

This isn’t merely a tale about a teenager attending boarding school and experiencing romance. Instead, it delves into themes such as grief, various types of love that people can share, and how life’s most devastating moments aren’t lessons we learn from, but painful memories we carry forward throughout our journey.

When I initially read this book as a teenager, I didn’t fully understand its profound impact because I hadn’t yet encountered the kind of grief portrayed by the characters or begun to grapple with it myself. It wasn’t until later that I returned to the book and truly appreciated how powerful young adult literature can be in shaping the experiences of those navigating a world they sometimes struggle to fit into comfortably.

One could contend that this novel is penned by a male author, featuring a teenage boy as the principal character – what relevance does it hold for us all? However, Alaska’s tale is just as much her own as it is Pudge’s. Life often leads us to encounter new individuals, and with that, heartache can occur. At times, regardless of age, experiences leave an indelible mark on us whether we wish them to or not. Isn’t this universal experience something we can all identify with?

As a film enthusiast who cherishes every page turned, I’d seize the opportunity to revisit “Looking for Alaska” once more if given the chance. It’s been quite some time since my last reading, but this moment feels like a gentle nudge from fate, urging me to delve into its pages once more. Here’s to 20 years of a book that has profoundly influenced me as both a writer and an individual. May its poignant final sentences linger in your thoughts, and may you find yourself drawn back to its enchanting narrative as I have been time and again.

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2025-03-11 02:00

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