Pages: 290
Published: 10th October 2017
Genre: Young Adult Contemporary
Aza Holmes never intended to pursue the disappearance of fugitive billionaire Russell Pickett, but there’s a hundred-thousand-dollar reward at stake and her Best and Most Fearless Friend, Daisy, is eager to investigate. So together, they navigate the short distance and broad divides that separate them from Pickett’s son Davis.
Aza is trying. She is trying to be a good daughter, a good friend, a good student, and maybe even a good detective, while also living within the ever-tightening spiral of her own thoughts.
First and foremost, this is a marvellous piece of literature. What I love about John Green’s writing is that he creates entertaining and enjoyable stories and characters, while addressing a very real and poignant issue with the utmost seriousness and compassion.
The care with which he treats the character of Aza (the narrator), and her insecurities, is very wholesome and touching, told with a level of understanding which will strike a chord with readers who suffer from similar anxieties and compulsions. A number of internal battles take place inside Aza’s mind, and these are often the most compelling parts of the novel.
The philosophical aspect of this book runs very deep, and Green has obviously gone to some length to incorporate relevant quotes from famous historical figures, but he also adds some wise musings of his own about the meaning of life; and who we are and what we are.
Alongside the story of Aza; themes of friendship, loss, and money are all very prominent. The mystery surrounding the disappearance of mega-rich businessman Russell Pickett is the underlying catalyst for the events that take place, and Aza’s relationship with his son, Davis.
But for me, the main relationship is that between Aza and her best friend, Daisy. They are almost inseparable, but what Green does so well is to examine the effect that Aza’s personality has on Daisy, and her coping mechanisms. Daisy, by the way, is a fun character to read, especially her obsession with Star Wars fanfic.
Overall, this book deserves all of the good reviews it has received. There is so much to like and so much to appreciate, as Green deftly combines a serious overarching issue with entertaining prose/dialogue, and impressive character development.
Stephen Reads Books 