John Green is not only one of my favorite authors, but also one of my favorite people. His books always bring me joy. Every time I finish one of his works, it is automatically my favorite.

Turtles all the Way Down is a different story.

I’ve never been able to connect with a character that he has written. I’ve never had cancer, or traveled across the country for a girl, etc. I am, however, mentally ill.

I connected with Aza in so many ways. From her spirals, to her struggle with taking her medication everyday (I also connected with her because she took Lexapro and so do I).

The romance aspect of the book was realistic and predictably unpredictable.

In short, I love John Green and his work, but Turtles all the Way Down touched my soul and let me really connect with a fictional character for the first time, and for that I am greatful.