The Fault in Our Stars is narrated by Hazel for many reasons. As we discussed in class, readers get to know Hazel from the first sentences of the book. We noticed her dry sense of humour, her hostility and sarcasm towards her mother, and her understanding of her cancer and her approaching death. Throughout the rest of the novel we are able to follow her relationship with Augustus. In my opinion, Hazel’s narration of falling in love with Augustus is much different than his would be. Teenage girls tend to be much more descriptive and attentive when it comes to meeting someone and getting to know them to the extent where one can say they are in love. I think that Hazel’s narration is crucial because we see her illness grow along with her relationship with Gus.
Augustus being the narrator would change the tone of the novel. I think that the reader would connect in a less emotional way with him. In chapter 13, we learn that Augustus is still sick and has not told Hazel. Had he been the narrator, the novel would have dealt with this aspect of secrecy. As a reader, this might make me questions Gus’ morals as he hides something so important from someone he loves.
Having either Hazel or Augustus narrate would be better than a third-person narration. The story is too personal to be told by someone without emotional attachment to the characters. The Fault in Our Stars has become so popular in today’s culture for a reason. Readers enjoy being able to escape into a novel and laugh, love, and struggle with the characters. Without such a personal narration, it would be impossible for the novel to as successful as it is.