Okay, I am about to gush over another John Green book! As you know from my reviews on The Fault in Our Stars and Paper Towns, I really enjoy his clever writing and his realistic, lovable characters. I can also say the same thing about David Levithan, having read Dash & Lily's Book of Dares and seeing Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist. So, let me tell you all about the FABULOUSITY of Will Grayson, Will Grayson book in true Tiny Cooper fashion.
Green and Levithan wrote this story in alternating chapters, each one a different Will Grayson. I immediately liked the first Will Grayson from the get-go. I did not like the second Will Grayson from the get-go. Then, a little more than halfway through the book, I decided I didn't really like the first Will Grayson that much and I simply adored the second Will Grayson. In the end, adored them both. Both Green and Levithan did an amazing job portraying real, flawed teenage boys who are struggling with tough life issues and trying to fit in and make sense of their world. They both needed hugs. I wanted to give both Will Graysons hugs and re-assure them that life does get better after high school.
The character of Tiny Cooper played a big part (pun intended) in both Will Grayson's stories. He helped them both to get closer to realizing their true selves and what was important to them. He was also the comic relief and the right amount of optimism that the Wills needed. If you haven't read the book, Tiny Cooper is a large gay man who is writing a musical about his life entitled Tiny Dancer. What's not to love?!?!
If you get the opportunity to listen to the audiobook -- do it! Both the narrators made the story come alive with their delivery -- the pacing was ON KEY and they even sing! At the same time, I was happy to have a copy of the book on hand as well, because the style of writing was also part of the characters. For example, the second Will Grayson only wrote in lowercase and his conversations were portrayed in IM (Instant Messaging) fashion. In an interview at the end of the book, Levithan explains that this is how Will sees himself. I was also glad to have the book because eventually it got to the point where I didn't want to stop enjoying the story just because I wasn't driving around anymore. I abandoned the audiobook and read the last 30%. Although, honestly, now that I am done with the book, I am going to keep listening to the end of audiobook.
I loved this book from the first page. If you follow my status updates on Goodreads, they pretty much go like this:
"I am looking forward to loving this book!"
"I love this book!"
"I love this book so much!"
I am not even exaggerating -- those were my updates. Anyway, please do yourself a favor and pick up Will Grayson, Will Grayson. You will laugh at Tiny, you will love the Wills, then hate the Wills, then love the Wills again. You will get misty and its poignancy, feel crushed when the Wills feel crushed, and cheer for certain characters to get together.
As for me, I am now off to continue my quest of reading everything John Green has ever written. And David Levithan, too. Have you read any of their books? Which ones do you recommend?
I recently got a copy of this book and I need to read it soon! But I'm collecting John Green books still before I start them :) So glad you enjoyed it!
ReplyDeleteOh so many great books you got this week! I read Starcrossed and I really love it, I hope you enjoy it!
Happy Reading!
Jay
We Fancy Books
Haha, I loved this book. I'm very glad that you enjoyed this one. :) I have only read a few Green and Leviathan books but I'd honestly recommend them all! So great.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your next books!
New to your blog,
Steph @ Stepping Out of the Page