Tolog Review: Looking for Alaska

Looking for Alaska
by John Green 
reviewed by Kaitlyn Hanes 

Everyone has experienced some sort of change in his/ her life, and all of those impacts have to power to change whom he/ she is and what he/ she believes in. In John Green’s renowned novel, Looking For Alaska, Miles Halter leaves his mundane life in Florida to head “to seek a Great Perhaps” at a boarding school in Indiana. Though he was ready for a new setting, he never imagined the drastic turn of events that would change his life forever.

This story starts with Miles, “one hundred and thirty six days before”. After leaving his home and the only life he has ever known Miles heads to a boarding school to experience a new way of life. There he meets his roommate Chip, also known as the Colonel, and he also becomes acquainted with Colonel’s other friends: Takumi, Laura, and (most importantly) Alaska. Miles embarks on a journey of fun, pranks, revelations and, eventually, tragedy. Miles enjoys his time with his new friends, but is greatly confused yet enthralled with the vivacious, flirty, fun, and free spirited Alaska. However, as he gets to know her, he becomes familiar with her downfalls, and he is able to see past her happy exterior in to a life of loss, sadness, and emptiness. Miles’ journey with his friends is captivating from beginning to end, capturing the story from “one hundred and thirty six days before” to “one hundred and thirty six days after”. 

John Green’s novel is an incredible read for everyone, and an especially intriguing read for all who enjoy reading young adult, romance, or tragedy books. Looking For Alaska is a great way to explore other lifestyles and perspectives, and a unique way to broaden your horizons. If you are looking for an import and inspiring read, I would definitely recommend Looking For Alaska, so you don't have to wait until you die “to start seeking a Great Perhaps.”