Failing to Follow Up The Fault in Our Stars

In which John Green discusses the years since the publication of his novel The Fault in Our Stars, why there hasn't been a new book yet, and why he has returned to writing after some time away. Thanks to Hank for beginning this discussion with his great video last week: • Let's Talk about Failure
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[@GraceMuncey]

When he said I might never publish another book my heart broke a little.

[@mehdi16sking]

i know right!

[@Vocalinds]

Huh. It made me think, "Good for you!" Not because I don't like his books - I really enjoyed TFIOS and Paper Towns, which are the only ones I've read - but because it's encouraging to see someone find satisfaction with their life. He's found a way to be okay with what he does, whether that is publish a new book (ie live up to expectations) or not, and I think that's really amazing.

[@jennindeed5792]

Re: wingsonwater. Yeah, this is an excellent point... But it's kind of a happy for him, sad for me thing, both working together in my head at the same time...

[@gabedavis1255]

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[@i_smoke_ghosts]

i hava masters insupergluology i can mend that lovely heart of yours

[@CRBungalow]

It will be okay if your next book is not as good as the fault in our stars. My favorite book of your is your least successful abundance of Katherines.

[@aronpuma5962]

Same here. Katherines to me rewards the most on rereading. I understand why it is the least popular but, I do have hope that such a state can change, because it took me. I hope it can take others.

[@vlogbrothers]

Thanks! In general, I find that nerdfighters like Katherines SO MUCH MORE than everyone else. It's fascinating. (I still have a soft spot for it, but I'm biased.) -John

[@estevanphillips6889]

Zombiecorns ftw!

[@haleykendall8124]

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[@aronpuma5962]

I think the reason for the love by Nerdfighters is that it works even better on rereading. It's not even about catching all the footnotes, but parcing together the story, arranging the subtilties. You don't really catch all the nuance of Colin and LIndsay's characters on the first read, at least I didn't. Perhaps we came back for the trivia and the fun tone and just, kept getting sucked in.

[@taiagapes690]

I was reading TFIOS today and someone from my class pointed at John Green on the cover page and said "Is that the guy from Crash Course?"

[@matsnyder4501]

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[@205srafferty]

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[@camhdz2605]

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[@LE4dGOLEM]

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[@Moviegon]

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[@TheJaredtheJaredlong]

Ya know, John, you needn't limit yourself to YA fiction. You've been writing this entire time. You write vlog brothers videos, and crash course series, and think pieces, and speeches. From an outsider perspective, you seem to be interested in writing about nearly everything _except_ ya fiction. If I had the bizarre power to force your to write any book, I would want you to write about your favorite moments in history using your unique voice and perspective. Like, Crash Course, but more details, tangents, and more reflection on the significance of those moments.

[@cheesereader]

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[@sarahelasfour6562]

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[@bonbonchocolat7777]

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[@ehkesoyo]

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[@paulocone1963]

People can change, of course, but John's said in the past that the reason that he writes YA is that he finds teenagers so much more interesting than adults.

[@carinawinchester4821]

"I'd love to read it. Frankly, I'd read your grocery lists."

[@xinarow6389]

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[@ChiaraBells]

+ (also: that username^^)

[@laura71595]

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[@chief9935]

U R NOW MY BEST FRIEND

[@Novjuly]

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[@reclaimingtecla1218]

"I missed writing, but in the way you miss someone that you used to love." - John That's a "whoa" kinda moment.

[@aidanhasaknife]

thought you’d appreciate this: he uses that line in the introduction of his memoir Anthropocene Reviewed. i read it as an audiobook and it changed me with such profundity that i do not recognize myself before i read it as myself. it has so many of these woah moments. it has helped me begin to construct a truer narrative around my life, while at the same time it has helped me begin to realize that there is no narrative of my life. that this is all just a soup of atoms. that i am here only because i am here. etc. enjoy!

[@acapellascience]

"The only things that will ruin an artist are success and failure, especially in that order." - Somebody As someone who's had to plough through a measure of this, I really appreciated this video. And as selfish as it sounds, I'm really psyched to see what John-With-Shaken-Beliefs produces. A lot of the best things I've read came from a real place of lost-ness and confusion of convictions; Fitzgerald and Hemingway come to mind.

[@ashleeellis2361]

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[@HeatherLKelly]

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[@carly7958]

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[@tamarpeterson6522]

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[@SamTills]

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[@dotter8]

Have fun with your book, John! “The man who loves his job never works a day in his life.” _-- Confucius_

[@calebpagan2226]

That quote is really misleading

[@dotter8]

Caleb Pagan How so?

[@calebpagan2226]

Never mind, I misunderstood it.

[@cerealkilla8930]

Omfg. Confucius?!?!

[@dotter8]

Cereal Killa "He who laugh last, didn't get joke."

[@olivia4087]

As said in The Fault in Our Stars, "Frankly, I'd read your grocery lists."

[@rory3155]

WHY DOES THIS COMMENT NOT HAVE MORE LIKES

[@insertnamehere1867]

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[@prterrell]

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[@XyntXII]

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[@Palisade5810]

if he sees this comment :oh no its happening again!!!!*faints*

[@Friek555]

Four years later, I'm glad to report that John has published two new books in the meantime, one of which is his best one yet.

[@GoingSpacewardTV]

Uncertainty is paralyzing.

[@haleykendall8124]

Ain't that the truth.

[@MsPandaDoodle]

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[@gummyng96]

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[@stormelemental13]

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[@KishoreShenoy1994]

I am not so certain about that

[@TypicalLiv]

who else is dying to see the drafts for the book ideas he never continued?

[@emilya5928]

JOHN POST THEM ON REDDIT

[@alexspielberg341]

Can you provide us with a link?

[@captn_v]

No, I'm dying to see the first ending he wrote to TFIOS (the one with the drug lord)

[@StoicthoughtsbyMatt]

me

[@sophialrainbows7501]

yesss

[@sl1pg8r]

As I age I understand more and more than I know almost nothing for certain.

[@Ash-xu2fv]

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[@carly7958]

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[@abcdefghij7772]

Did you mean to say *that*

[@StupidGoozack]

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[@NotSaige]

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[@annikaw1920]

I want to say one thing: I don't think TFIOS is remarkably better than your other books. I personally like Paper Towns the best and I know a lot of people who prefer LFA or An Abundance of Katherines for various (often personal) reasons. The thing about your books is that you write about topics we all think about and we often can relate to, putting things we think can't be verbally expressed into beautiful words and sentences. So I don't think there is one of your books that is objectively better than the other ones, because you can't compare them. Maybe TFIOS reached a broader audience because you wrote about stuff more people can relate to, but the number of fans does not define the quality of the thing, at least in my opinion. TFIOS is beautiful and well written and moving and so many other things, but so is every single one of your books. So if you publish another book, it will be just as good as everything else you published, even if it is not as successful as TFIOS. And even if people who loved TFIOS don't like it - that will be because they can't relate to the topic of the new book as well as they did to the things adressed in TFIOS. But there will be other people, who didn't know you before or who didn't like TFIOS who will fall in love with the new book the way all of your fans did with at least one of your books. So just know: Your books are awesome, and they change the way I and many others look at the world, especially Paper Towns has changed a lot for me. It'S okay if you don't publish another one, but it would make me really sad if you only didn't because you are afraid of disappointing anyone - because you won't.

[@blairchisholm9677]

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[@haleykendall8124]

This.

[@eileeng2715]

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[@Cskillet777]

I completely agree! I think another important note that you forgot to mention is that not only is every one of your books very touching in their own way, but that everybody loves all of them! Not that they just love one book, it may just be that they love one more than the other, often for a personal reason.

[@connierobinson1090]

I'd love to hear John's opinion about this. If he wrote the books in a bubble, could he have guessed that tfios would be the most popular?

[@Christina-xv7ml]

2:52 "I don't know if I'll ever publish another book." Let me just say I'm genuinely happy for you and I can't wait to read turtles all the way down.

[@maxhovious5368]

Already read it. If you've read Paper Towns, You'll love TATWD

[@daydodog]

+Rocky the boxer don't you mean, "if you liked paper towns"

[@Eva-pv6dx]

@@daydodog same thing, right?

[@ladybug2267]

Who else realized he got a little bit of a detective thriller inside TATWD? ^_^

[@panwall1327]

just do what Stephen King does. Publish EVERYTHING!

[@diegodrms1]

well, that's easy when you are Stephen King

[@KassidyNeely]

Pleeaaaasssee!

[@EmethMatthew]

While I agree that can be a good approach to take to creative endeavors, at the same time I have to ask myself why Stephen King seems to be so unique in that approach... It would seem like perhaps that method doesn't actually work out for most people.

[@jcavonpark]

King writes a LOT. 4k words a day. He tosses 75% of what he writes, and only keeps the best stuff.

[@elanorsan708]

As an artist putting something out there that you yourself aren’t proud of is probably the worst feeling in the world, even if it gets an okay response. Not stating that lightly. Not sure how Stephen King overcame this, pretty impressive honestly.

[@HunterAdkins861]

John, if writing makes you miserable then don't write, we'll support you either way.

[@risxra]

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[@ashleeellis2361]

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[@parasocialloverboy]

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[@HedendaagseHippies]

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[@JunSian1001]

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[@HowToCookThat]

I love this John. Creating is tough at the best of times, particularly when you're committed to not just rehashing the same-old, same-old that fills the bookshelves (and KZbin too). Real creativity takes time but, as you know, it's worth it in the end! PS. I quite like the sound of those half-written books you mentioned :)

[@chewbacca7189]

hi Ann!!

[@morriganx6021]

You have no idea how happy I am to see that you were here too, Ann. I love your videos, and they always light up my day. You've been at it for so many years and given us so much of your creativity and inspired so many people. Thank you.

[@juliusroman8616]

I never expected Ann Reardon to be a fan of VlogBrothers, lol. You live and you learn!

[@sophieward7225]

Dear John, If I'm honest, I loved Paper Towns more than I loved TFIOS. They're both great, but Paper Towns was more exciting? I guess? I don't know how to describe it. The point is that just because TFIOS is your greatest monetary success doesn't mean it's your greatest work. Not everybody will agree on what their favorite John Green book is, and that won't change if you publish one more. And so what if it's not as successful as TFIOS? Maybe it'll be somebody's favorite anyways. Best wishes, Max

[@camspendlove2795]

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[@sydnieroberts9294]

Alaska is proably my favorite. I hope the movie is good but the book was amazing for me.

[@sophiespeliopoulos2851]

I was about to comment almost the exact same thing except my favorite is Looking For Alaska lol

[@Boycicle]

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[@Charlie-me1kw]

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[@stephenlouis3908]

"The artist must always come before his art. Should his art come first, it will also destroy him." John, we will stand by you no matter what. You're a part of this community and that comes with no expectations. Make yourself happy, writing or not. ❤️

[@chloehovindclinkenbeard8767]

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[@StarkidRanger123]

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[@louisel3129]

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[@keandric2765]

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[@jagan4922]

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[@AlenaCantFly]

Personally my favourite John Green book isn't even The Fault In Our Stars, it's Looking For Alaska.

[@monochromatic_melodramatic]

Looking for Alaska made me really sad but also moved me the most so I don't know Idk anything

[@sarahroldan765]

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[@andi-roo9426]

LittleBookDragon SAME.

[@andi-roo9426]

LittleBookDragon +

[@Micahlee_19]

+ same!!!

[@pamelaabrilvelascosanchez6935]

I just hope that you'll publish another book someday, because I know it's gonna be amazing and different in a good way.

[@vlogbrothers]

I hope so, too! -John

[@Alexandra-ok4ko]

John reacted :o , fully agree !!

[@Rosannajoyx]

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[@N3rdfightermom]

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[@despoina3628]

There's a whole comment section full of support and positivity,and I think one can tell that nobody here sees you as the guy who wrote than one book.But the problem is that you do see yourself as that person.Tfios had a wide(r) audience,and it was a great book.But I truly believe that it wasn't a great book BECAUSE of the number of its readers,it was a great book that many people where priviliged to read.It would still be as good if just one person got to read it (of course the idea of greatnes is subjective blah blah but that only means that everything actually is great in its own way,a thought that us people can't really wrap our minds around). It is said that it was the most successful book you've written,but it depends what the definition of success is.It is a thing you've created from nothing,and you should be proud of.But the rest of your books (and I hope like crazy that the phrase "and the ones to come" will be accurate in the future,if you so decide to write more) are also creations that you should be proud of,and not less just because they had a smaller audience. Lastly,I want to say that missing writting isn't like missing a person you used to love.A person is what they are on their own,no matter what your feelings are toward them.Writting is what you make of it.It's yours.So maybe a different outlook would change everything.

[@vlogbrothers]

This is so lovely. Thanks. -John

[@despoina3628]

Thank you for sharing this.I know the feeling,and talking about it is the hardest thing,I admire you for doing it.I hope from the bottom of my heart that things will work out the way you wish them to. x

[@marvinb_g]

...and it is true. :)

[@olivialake4375]

Very interesting view point. I hadn't thought of that, but it's true. 100% true

[@JeorgeDeLaCuuzOfficial]

Wow. As I read this, it made me feel like I should be happy to write my book, even if it's only a small amount of people reading it.

[@rachelhwang03]

It's fine John. I'll read anything your write. And so will 2 million people.

[@lunespark9]

Almost 3 million actually :)

[@Artechiza]

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[@journalsbysophie]

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[@jadenreese6150]

frankly I will read his grocery lists

[@classymonkee08]

he doesn't want 2 million to read it, he knows they will. he wants them to like it. he wants it to be his best.

[@elisaedss]

Dear John Green. To be perfectly honest The fault in our Stars wasn't my favourite book. Neither was Paper Towns actually. My favourite book of your's is one that hasn't become a movie yet (although I think there are rumours or motions about it I don't really know???) anyway Looking For Alaska is my favourite book of your's by far. Actually I think it's in my top favourite books ever. So if you are worried about not being able to write a book better than the fault in our stars, well you already have in my opinion.

[@maireadmaguire4589]

Looking for Alaska is a gem

[@amberjones1447]

I agree!! Look for Alaska was so amazing in my opinion and I really wanted it to become a movie!

[@antonian401]

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[@vlogbrothers]

Thanks for your kinds words about Alaska; I really appreciate them. I guess in my head I don't really rank them by quality; I just think, like, "I was happy enough with this to share it with people," and when I published them, I felt that way about each of them. I haven't felt that way since tfios. Hopefully I will again someday. -John

[@leahmih2835]

Same here.

[@rachel5748]

Hearing this is actually rather comforting.

[@adamt.4180]

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[@polyheartmony]

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[@ashleeellis2361]

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[@missgoldheart]

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[@Johanna-rp5il]

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[@faithstrachan7299]

Dear John, I have literary read all of your books (even the ones you coe wrote) multiple times. I could probably recite Looking for Alaska. Your books mean more to me than anything I have ever experienced in my short lifetime and because of that I refuse to believe the book writing greatness in you has dried up. What you write is more than an idea or something you wrote in Starbucks. It's a feeling, an inspiration to keep going when things get hard, or to always find the truth, and never run away from your problems. And there is an enormous chance you will never read this, but those are the reasons I believe you can and will write again because quite frankly, I'd read your grocery lists. Faith

[@katiemckenzie521]

You and Hank sharing your experiences with failure has been very therapeutic for me. I've struggled with my share of self-disappointments and I always feel very isolated in that disappointment. So thank you both for bringing light to a feeling everyone has felt but no one is willing to share.

[@katiemckenzie521]

Also, as an aspiring writer, I hope you find your new story, one that is a joy to write, even if you decide to never publish it.

[@louisel3129]

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[@fruehlinglich]

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[@carly7958]

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[@Ash-xu2fv]

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[@samiraghannadian8764]

Ok, I'll be the first admit TFIOS isn't my favorite John Green book, but it was my gateway into a wonderful community, and I thank and congratulate you on that John.

[@kayleeshook1593]

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[@CourageousUmbrella]

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[@carolprince16]

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[@rachaelbee22]

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[@ladair59]

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[@StonedtotheBones13]

Hi from the future John. You've donea lot of amazing work since this. Crash course, vlog brothers, partners in health in sierra Leone, raising your children, learning to Tiktok with your brother, and even writing more books. I admit I personally am more familiar with Hank, but I thought this message from a while ago could use a message from now to say... Maybe everything works out in the end. And I'm so glad you're sharing this with us

[@leonardovaz7251]

Just keep doing what makes you happy, john

[@haleykendall8124]

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[@louisel3129]

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[@eden9036]

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[@Speederzzz]

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[@jacobwoodbury6073]

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[@RoseFang]

John, I am a writer who has never published and this resonated with me in ways that nothing has in quite some time. I keep flopping between projects and getting scared and I finally finished a novel i've been working on for 12 years of my life and I'm so scared of trying to put it out there. Thank you for making this video.

[@vlogbrothers]

Yes, it's very difficult, and in some ways it doesn't get easier. Thanks for your comment--I do hope that you find ways to share your work. It is scary, though. -John

[@SamTills]

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[@EmzieEvs]

Keep creating. It doesn't matter what or who for. Just. Keep. Creating.

[@kendrabrecka279]

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[@achapterahead]

EmilyKate Ⓥ +

[@ingridlou5041]

Then you should write it all for fun with no intent of publishing it and in the end, if it's great and you want to share it, do so. It'll be a huge bonus. If not though, then you had fun writing it so it's not like you lost out on anything!

[@OK-wm6qr]

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[@xinarow6389]

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[@ChiaraBells]

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[@AndrewRollette]

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[@Houdini111]

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[@KaijaSchmauss]

I was gonna write a novel about a girl with aspergers hiding her disability to fit in with the "cool" kids at her school, but I've decided to re-work it into a play about a girl who has aspergers (and passes for neurotypical most of the time) who falls in love with a neurotypical boy. If I can find a good composer to collaborate with, I want it to be a musical because I'm passionate about musical theater and, to my knowledge, there's never been one with an autistic lead. The idea of it all both excites and terrifies me. I want to create representation for girls like me, but the potential of failure and how that failure could affect the community is scary.

[@gracemordor8144]

I want to watch this musical.

[@minervaalexia6074]

As a girl with Aspergers, I approve this message.

[@donegonenothingtoseehere1389]

As a sister who's beaten up many a human in defense of my autistic sister, I'm excited

[@adammartinelli8274]

First off, this sounds absolutely fantastic, and I'd help you with the music if I could. But, correct me if I'm wrong, isn't Aspergers on the Autistic spectrum? And aren't girls with Autism basically not a thing?

[@FantasyFan5]

Aspergers is on the autism spectrum, yes, and there are many girls with autism. Where did you learn that girls with autism are 'not a thing?'

[@LaurenFairwx]

John, you're wonderful. I'm always interested in seeing/reading/enjoying whatever you create. I'd love to read another book you've written, but I'd be just as happy watching another video you've made or another project you've worked on. And I'd much rather wait years or more for something new than have you feel obligated to release something you're not proud of or not enjoying writing. Also, as a creator this was super encouraging for me to hear. So thank you for speaking about something so personal. You're not alone!

[@ayanaloyd9144]

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[@kendrabrecka279]

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[@rowenblue]

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[@thebookgoddess7380]

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[@Unsure808]

If it's writers block I suggest you write the book in TFIOS An Imperial Infliction, I really wanted to read that...

[@austinguidry2]

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[@soulmistin]

He actually did! The book was exclusively given to the cast and crew of the movie

[@wobblysauce]

Or instead of a Book Book.. what about a Novella.. if the idea gets traction.. you can fill it out, if not you have a short story.

[@Artechiza]

We all know how it ends but you know what we don't give a ****, we'd still totally read it!!

[@alannar.8701]

He's said it's not the kind of book he thinks he could write.

[@ThatCrazyBookWyrm]

When I ran my book club back in highschool we would dedicate an entire month to your books. Books, not book. You are one of my favorite authors, one of my personal heroes, and one of the people who have inspired me to persue my dream of becoming an author. I am in my first year of college right now, struggling to adjust and to keep writing, battling against an ongoing writer's block, and you still inspire me to keep trying. You are an inspiration to so many of us John, and we all can't wait to read whatever you put out next. This isn't a TFiOS sequel--it's an entirely new work that's been years in the making. (Even if you haven't been working on this particular book that whole time, those other stories have in a way led up to this one.) And I'm not saying this to put pressure on you, but to remind you that you're a very talented writer and that we will enjoy whatever you out out, whenever it comes. Take your time and enjoy the process, we'll be waiting patiently :) -Love from a fellow (although not nearly as amazing) writer, and an avid fan

[@5querida]

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[@vlogbrothers]

Thanks. I'll keep at it! -John

[@ChinmayaNagpal]

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[@mehdi16sking]

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[@olantrin]

looking back i’m so glad that you went through and published another book because turtles all the way down is my favorite book i’ve ever read

[@liz5773]

KZbin recommended this video to me now. Knowing the ending made me smile.

[@hubberducky]

Awwwww, everybody's so friggin nice about it. Warms my cold soul.

[@vickhallam12]

So many of our comment streams have gotten so harsh, comment streams like this is what makes Nerdfighteria still feel so home-y.

[@bannewanne]

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[@EmethMatthew]

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[@General12th]

It's hard to remember that people can be good, failure can be okay, and life can go on. But they do. They all do.

[@thefallenone86]

I appreciate the courage it must have taken to talk about this so publicly. To have gained so much praise and fame for your writing and to turn around and so candidly discuss your insecurity in your own writing shows the trust you have for the DFTBA community and it's one of the reasons I love this channel so much. I do hope you publish another book John, not just for your fan base, but for yourself as well. Honestly though, I hope to enjoy further content from you regardless of the medium you choose in the future. Take care buddy and keep writing, even if just for the fun of it. - Andy

[@JimberJam]

This was one of the most beautifully honest (a la Ze Frank) videos I've seen you do, John. Beautiful stuff *****.

[@vlogbrothers]

Thanks. I still lean a lot on Ze's videos from 2006 when thinking about how to make videos that are personal and straightforward. What a genius that guy is. -John

[@ragingwitch8875]

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[@mandosarad]

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[@mcur83]

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[@Cameron-hz9wc]

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[@user-jr8we5up2p]

I never knew true heartbreak until I just heard the words "I don't know if I'll ever publish another book" come out of my favorite authors mouth.

[@shwmn9232]

TFIOS isn't my favorite book of yours, I really love Looking for Alaska and than all the others follow next

[@bannewanne]

I love looking for alaska!

[@camhdz2605]

saaaaame

[@aticqer]

Nothing can beat Looking for Alaska to me. Just an personal opinion.

[@andy4an]

Alaska was my favorite too. I'm not sure if it was objectively better than Stars, but I connected better to it.

[@seekerskate]

same here. looking for alaska is an all time favorite for me. Feels like there is so much more substance to think about rather than fault in our stars. fault in our stars is actually my least favorite from him... I really hope he starts a project he loves and publishes again

[@somenerdyblonde]

I heard "I may not publish another book" and yelled "Noooooooo." But John's writing appears in different mediums and shorter forms now. It also comes out multiple times a week. If there's not another book, we will be okay.

[@gracegrass4462]

So true. If he wants to publish another book, I will read the heck out of it, but if he doesn't, it's not like he's going to disappear into a puff of smoke.

[@bannewanne]

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[@radio_static6222]

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[@megnovotny1253]

So was this thing you were writing actually Turtles All The Way Down?

[@vlogbrothers]

It was! -John

[@StevenandStefanie]

It's interesting to me that The Fault in Our Stars was much more insanely popular than your other books because I ADORED looking for Alaska and although tfios is amazing looking for Alaska will always hold a special place in my heart

[@hannathesinger6299]

You're a storyteller, and it's ok if your medium has changed.

[@MabelSabel]

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[@alyssac.209]

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[@ashleeellis2361]

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[@themightychickens]

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[@HeatherLKelly]

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[@neritela8479]

honestly I feel like hazel from TFIOS I would literally read Johns grocery list tbh... and I agree with him that if he writes a book it may not be as big as TFIOS but it's okay, it doesn't have to be as big.. I'm sure it'll be interesting tho.. John green has changed my life in all honesty with his books and I'm not just talking about TFIOS I mean all of his books.. so please don't give up on writing and if you ever decide to share a book with us I will be the first one in the line to buy it

[@Razbeariez]

I feel the same way. There's something about the way John writes that, as a reader, I feel like I'm reading my own thoughts that I somehow forgot about. I end up learning new and exciting things about myself when I read his books because of the way his writing makes me think and feel.

[@erinwilliams8402]

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[@chekubechukwuma4307]

I relate to that. While I understand that I'll never write like him because everyone's mind has its own rythmn, the way he uses languages inspires me to write better while simultaneously prodding me to better understand myself in a way that is multidimensional and beautiful.

[@ryanl8226]

I know what you are talking about. Whenever I read one of John's books I feel as if I am exploring my own mind and the main characters are just bits of my personality. He is the only writer that can make me lose myself in the characters.

[@zs7770]

Right there with you

[@rileythewizard]

I remember watching this four years ago and I was so sad at the idea of John never publishing another book. Now, I am so grateful that Turtles All the Way Down exists and The Junket is on the way. :,)

[@classygigi4]

TFIOS was actually my least favorite among your books (still an absolute favorite overall, just like the others more), and of course I've been waiting years for another book from you. Something that can replace the TFIOS taste in my mouth. Honestly, I think TFIOS did so well because of Nerdfighteria. I think of 2012 as one of the peak years of Nerdfighteria (maybe because that's when I was most involved), and that lead to a lot of hype and pre orders, which lead to fans talking about the book, which inevitably lead to the creation of new readers and fans. You can't compare the releases of your books as they happened in very different times of your popularity. Bottom line is there's a million people who will read anything you publish. So take your time and don't stress about it so much. Write when you want to, and write what you want to, and we'll probably enjoy the heck out of it.

[@paulocone1963]

+

[@SomeoneBeginingWithI]

+

[@representationmetaphorique]

+

[@munrowood]

+ For what it's worth, looking for Alaska is my favorite of John's books. It feels the most real and personal. Of course I enjoyed TFIOS, and I'm thrilled by its success, but I'd like to see him write for fun, like he said, or just something very personal and real to him, like his first novel.

[@2write2sing2dance]

Amen

[@Dajara]

I'm very thoughtful after this video. I've always loved writing, but it has never come easy to me and it is always very hard. And like with so many other things in my life, if you don't try, you cannot fail. but along the same line of thinking, you cannot succeed without possibly failing. So I think that you Greens are in the very least going to look back on whatever happens and know that you tried. and tried again. maybe change to oneself comes in more forms than we imagine. I thank you for showcasing failures these past videos, maybe it will help me finally try :)

[@haleykendall8124]

+

[@JussonCypher]

+

[@scienceofdeduction6580]

+

[@Fatortu]

I was in a somewhat similar state of mind. But then I decided I would regularly write just for me. Most of it isn't really good. But when I go back to read something I wrote years ago, I'm so happy. I really like my stories even if I notice all their clumsiness.

[@TheDeerstalkerHat]

+

[@phoenixliv]

You've lived a lot since TFIOS was published. Kids born, medical issues, world tours, presidential Q&A vids, I mean, puff levels have had a right to be high. You do you John. We'll be here watching whether you write that next book or not. Whatever you do just DFTBA :)

[@prterrell]

+

[@shayleeoloughlin5135]

+

[@trace_tomorrow]

+ This comment only gets more true.

[@theotherbrief]

But I am really very interested in the story you are currently writing from the snippets you have talked about on Dear Hank and John and some of your other platforms and if you did decide to publish it, in any way shape or form, I would indefinitely be doing my happy dance

[@vlogbrothers]

Thanks, yeah I definitely hope to finish and publish it. I've enjoyed working on it a lot the last year (and have even folded in a few bits from the previous five years), but we shall see! -John

[@theotherbrief]

My feelings on this news ...

[@theotherbrief]

:)

[@jamesonmoore1837]

You feel like 1/2 Steve from Blues Clues & 1/2 my 7th grade English teacher. This is high praise, in case you couldn't tell.

[@kkey1030]

+

[@lettuceprime4922]

That is the best arrangement of words aligned in the best sentence; in other words, you've completed language. We can stop now.

[@gracegrass4462]

+

[@carriegregory1]

+

[@olivia4087]

Same except for the teacher part, my comparative government and politics teacher.

[@chadibakhta7922]

Dear John, the best thing about your books is not the words in them, it's, rather, how you put part of your soul and your unique and inspiring view of the world in them. We are touched by your characters because you put so much of your very self and essence in them, and I think that is something that one cannot lose; besides, a calm sea does not produce able swimmers, and this struggle you are having is healthy in the sense that it gives you great awareness of what you write, and that is an advantage. Best of luck

[@ChocolateTeapot93]

I've never read TFIOS, or seen the film. So I expect nothing from you except articulate and insightful ramblings on youtube and you haven't failed at that.

[@paulocone1963]

May I recommend reading the book?

[@Inucat]

just think of the pressure you'd feel if you had written a series. I've been following a 7 part fantasy story and we are currently on book 3, after 6(or is it already 7?) years book 4 is supposed to come out in two days. When the last book came out I did not even know because the release date kept being pushed backwards and then one day I found the book in a book store after it had been out for over a month. I read the whole book in one sitting

[@vlogbrothers]

I cannot imagine how series writers whose books become popular manage to complete the series. I've watched a few of my friends go through that experience, and it just seems SO hard. Like, obviously they're really lucky to have people care about their work, but like the way writers like J K Rowling and Veronica Roth and Stephenie Meyer wrote through IMMENSE pressure is just astonishing ot me. -John

[@Twosocks42]

Gives one a better appreciation for what GRRM must be dealing with.

[@iyagiy]

"...astonishing TO me." Sorry John. I couldn't resist the opportunity to correct a best-selling novelist for a minor spelling error. Lol.

[@CatManUtdFC]

Gentlemen Bastards by Scott Lynch?

[@Inucat]

Robert Murray YES! I've actually cancelled all appointments for that day so that I can read it :)

[@HailingRoses]

This is true, and so relevant to so many other aspects of life as well. As someone with anxiety I definitely understand what it feels like to face insurmountable levels of pressure and with the situation you were in John, I can only imagine what that must have been like. You should do things, like writing, because they make you happy--not because you feel like you need to reach another success or achievement to surpass past successes, but because you genuinely enjoy what you are doing. Take care of yourself, we love you John.

[@taylorulch9871]

+

[@kaitlyncarroll3314]

I can't imagine not loving a John Green book. My favorite one so far is Will Grayson Will Grayson.

[@brikets5315]

And mine is Paper Towns. See, John, you latest book doesn't have to be the best yet. We each have our favourites, and we'll still read whatever you write next.

[@rachelpang310]

+Briket S +

[@katherineswartz941]

And mine is Looking for Alaska! Really, there is a large group that will be disappointed no matter what because in whatever you do there will be people like that. But you're fortunate to have a community who will read and discuss your novel, even if it's about zombies and unicorns.

[@hardlyquinn3747]

If it makes you feel any better i didn't read the fault in our stars because it was spoiled for me

[@vlogbrothers]

It's not too late! (The 'spoiler' is not something I thought of as a secret when I was writing it; only when people started reading it did I realize that was something important to readers.) -John

[@hardlyquinn3747]

That was deep

[@matthewilluminating]

Confession time. I have not read a single one of John's books. Keep meaning to, but other books keep bumping up my to read list.

[@alannar.8701]

John's books take, like, a day each. I promise, you can knock any of them out in an afternoon.

[@2write2sing2dance]

Go and read Paper Towns right now. Its so good. I haven't read The Fault in Our Stars yet.

[@michelleschultze4641]

Try writing a couple short stories, or a scene that you've wanted to try out. Then get a couple people to read it and give you feedback. The full-length story that I'm writing right now is largely filled with the kind of scenes that I find fun to write: lonely and dark moments. So find a brand of scene that you love, then ask yourself. Who would be in these scenes? And how would they react in other situations? If you go from there, a story idea might originate. I really hope you keep writing, John. You've been a huge inspiration to me and the entire community of Nerdfighteria, and we'll support you no matter what you choose to do.

[@orchidcolors]

+

[@kendrabrecka279]

+

[@TJtheBee]

I'm in a similar place John. Writing, which I once love and still do love, just hasn't been the same. Lots of that has to do with the reactions from my family and attempting recovery, but it's like missing a really old friend. I don't get to see that friend so often anymore. :(

[@Ilamarea]

Family's the worst to show your work to. Don't ever do that.

[@TJtheBee]

I don't even need to show them - I just have to make the faintest sense of an attempt to talk about it and suddenly I'm being yelled at. I'm in recovery for a reason. *sigh*

[@thechosen1509]

I feel the same way with my art. My family just tells me to shut up and it really hurts. :(

[@elisezhang833]

I truly hope you publish another one. I don't mind it not living up to The Fault In Our Stars, I'm sure it'll still be great. And if it isn't, who cares? You like writing, and we like reading it. So, as long as you love what you do, it's all good :)

[@louisel3129]

+

[@antonian401]

+

[@lizzieevans4127]

+

[@roshpotter06]

+

[@vlogbrothers]

I hope so too! Thanks for the kind words. -John

[@amandavannoy6953]

John, you did amazing with Turtles all the way Down. You have nothing to fear. You are an amazing author who gives a voice to characters that are unbelievably relatable. Thank you for your work.

[@tanishasarup1274]

I think this should be turned into KZbin challenge so that we can get the conversation beyond this community. I think it is important for everyone to talk about their failures, not just thinking actually talking out loud. Watching a "celebrity" talk about their failures humanize them which I think is of great importance.

[@LocallyConstantDuck]

"I dont know if ill ever publish another book" um yeah about that

[@jsizzzle311]

'Looking For Alaska' is my favorite of your books because we read it my senior year of high school. We had discussions daily about it in our English class. One of those days, (the day after...you know what happens in the book) people in my class stopped being fake, stopped trying to impress people, and they actually talked about death with tears running down their faces. It was astonishing. A friend of most of ours had recently passed away, in a terrible situation. I was the shy guy who didn't talk much because I had all these emotions in my brain, but for the first time in High School...I didn't feel alone. All of these popular people were sitting around me literally crying so hard. I loved that class, and everyone in it.

[@liberty6395]

My favorite story you've written is actually the short story in Let it Snow. I would really enjoy a book of short stories by you one day. I also think you do wonderful work with collabs. TFIOS was a great book but it's still just one of many wonderful stories you've told. Write because you love to not because you feel obligated to. You deserve to love your work and if you never "do better" than TFIOS then so be it. Your stories shouldn't compete with each other. Keep trying to get better but don't be discouraged because you think you can't one up yourself. DFTBA John

[@paulocone1963]

+

[@rebeccaclark9131]

+

[@loreleifae4730]

Yes! Lfa is my favorite, but let it snow was absolutely incredible while tfios was a fine book, but not great

[@ReflectiveWolf]

I can't fight the feeling that writing, like most any other craft, is something you can 'take a break from' or 'not have time for' or 'never accomplish anything with', but not something you can genuinely quit once you have started. It becomes part of you, a direction you mind will inevitably turn to when processing ideas. It's also worth noting that the ideas or themes in fiction can be largely important to the people reading them, so while it's certainly true that tfios had more 'mainstream appeal', that doesn't intrinsically mean it is the most successful of your books. Even a book with a very small following might be immensely successful in terms of the impact it has on its readers; whether that readership happens to be 'niche' doesn't change that.

[@vickhallam12]

++++ LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS. Currently going through a "Dont have time for" with my art.

[@vickya3403]

+

[@TheBraverMe]

+

[@EmethMatthew]

+

[@francesk.9738]

+

[@ruth5638]

Even to this day when people ask me what my favourite book is I reply 'Paper Towns'. I think when you read a book can be almost as important as the book itself, at least for me. I have read 'Paper Towns' at 3 important times in my life and each time it has given me something different. It's a comfort to me and a reminder of how I've grown, and I hope each time I read it I'll find something new. No other book I own is so dog-eared (gotta mark all my favourite parts). So if you write another book there's a 15 year old inside me who searched every bookshop she went to for your books waiting to read it. You write what you enjoy and whether you publish anything or not, we'll always be thankful for all the other content you have given us and continue to give us. Thanks John

[@adityakhanna113]

I can surely empathise. I've been writing poetry for 10 years now. it has evolved from thoroughly childish to, well, not childish. I recently wrote one, four months I guess. And it was praised. Never in my life had such praise been showered upon me for some scribbles I made on a piece of paper. I've not been able to pen down anything since then. I write because I do, it's not even professional, not even amateur. It's like a mild hobby. but I love doing it. since then, I've tried and scowled at all that I've thought of, in my mind. I wish to write another piece, something much more beautiful and chord-striking (?) than there ever has been, by me. Will I? considering all the fiends of studies, school that sit upon my shoulder. A question still rings, "am I creatively dead?" I doubt that. I know I'm failing, but I've not lost. Worst part. that poem not even *my* favourite. Anyway, Do you consider any of your books your Magnum Opus? Not like he'd reply, so could anyone like link where he mentions his favourites out of his own creations?

[@Artechiza]

Where can I read you, mate?

[@adityakhanna113]

Artechiza As of now. Nowhere. But I'll be blogging in months to come. Hold tight!

[@MildlyRabid]

+

[@katies4229]

I'd be eager to read what you write, too. I'm in the same situation, where I've been writing poetry for a long time (about twelve years I think) and have only recently started occasionally sharing it. Once in a great while I write something I'm happy with, and then I fear I can't do it again and that I've somehow used up all the creative energy I once had. But it circles back, eventually. Good luck with your endeavors!

[@adityakhanna113]

Katie S Hey! Well, a shared emotion between fellow *ahem * "poets" certainly is a relief. Well, I've hit blocks but I guess this one's because I'm hardly getting the time to get out of the house and gather "inspiration". Thank you!

[@LiamODellUK]

Interesting. It's almost like an artist following up on a debut album, and wondering where to go next. A lot of them change their style and whilst a lot of fans get upset, a new audience forms with some old and new fans mixed in. I like to think that 'the second album/book/follow-up', regardless of the attention on it, is a chance to redefine a style. It's important and restraining, yet somewhat liberating at the same time. Best of luck with the writing, John!

[@vlogbrothers]

Yeah, I felt something similar between my first and second novel, although it was happening on a very different scale than a musician with a successful debut album. I didn't want to write another book that 'sounded' like the first one, so I changed the perspective to third person and tried to write a comic novel with an unlikable protagonist--and looking back, I did some of that only because I wanted to prove that I could do more than one thing, which imho is not a great reason to do something. -John

[@louisel3129]

+

[@risxra]

+

[@FooBarBash]

Hearing you talk about these expectations makes me think about how George R. R. Martin must feel, writing The Winds of Winter.

[@mythic_ael]

I'm writing my first novel. Only onto my second draft and I'm excited but also terrified.

[@nothere5114]

Do you have a blog or something? If you're already on the second draft, I want to see where it goes. :)

[@mythic_ael]

Hi there, I do actually. Though it's not very interesting. lexhunter.wordpress.com/

[@moonlady3000]

You're talking to the audience who liked "Zombicorns".... just... putting it out there. We do not judge your written work all that harshly. Not to invalidate your insecurity. Just sayin.... you'll always have an audience.

[@adelisemcullens2679]

bahahahahahahahaha true story

[@idalizette3150]

+

[@CeeInTheStars]

+

[@fathimamoolla]

+

[@liesjevangroenland2481]

+

[@amandamiller3369]

The honesty, frankness, and openness the two of you guys use on this channel is wonderful. In a world where more and more of life is posed and retouched, I so appreciate that you share your human vulnerabilities. I know it's not easy, but I'm grateful you do.

[@Ceallai]

I think I'm going to throw away the novel and half-written sequel I've spent 5+ years agonizing over and write something completely new. It feels like such a waste, but at least I know I'm not the only one. Thanks for sharing your failures, John.

[@madalyn7360]

+

[@jasonschneijder2012]

dont litterlly throw it away, you might want to read it later on in your life to improve your writing!

[@Electricdreams21]

Have you thought about just publishing it online as a blog? maybe it'll help to gage some reaction. Maybe not the whole thing but snippets? I'll happily read something you've put that much time into

[@Ceallai]

+HamishRover There's been more agonizing than actual writing to be honest, and I've started it from scratch twice. It's not that I don't think people will like it, it's because I'm no longer enjoying it - not enough to finish it, anyway. If you're interested, though, you can read some of it at kellymcanena.wordpress.com/tag/the-glimmerlands-1/ I would welcome feedback nonetheless, even if I don't use it on that particular story. :)

[@firesabers]

happens to the best of us

[@lucidmoses]

You sound like your in a better spot then you ever been. Good for you.

[@NickGreyden]

+ The ability to recognize there is a problem, know what the problem is, know there is nothing you can do about it, and move on conscious of but not paralyzed by those problems.... that is a large step toward being productive and happy in life.

[@Su7310]

Hi John. First of all, thank you for talking about this I am sure it was really hard sharing your private thoughts (which you have kept private for a really long time) with an audience as big as this. I've loved all of your books. I believe that they all tell beautiful stories about people i have always dreamt of meeting of being. Your books have helped me realise that I also want to tell beautiful stories about people I only dream about being one day. I have read them all at least 4 times each, and they have become something like a safe haven or a home I can always go back to when I need to feel protected by familiar things. Looking for Alaska guided me through going to study away from home, then it guided me through the darkest path I've had to walk through: grief. And then it showed me to understand that sometimes not knowing gives you more peace than understanding. It was my favourite book even before I went through a similar situation, and it still is the only book I run to when things get too hard and when pain gets too bad. All of your other books represent something very important to me, but undoubtedly Looking for Alaska is the one I love the most. That being said, I have also fallen in love with all of your other amazing content (specially vlogbrothers' videos and the podcast). And I think that your work always will represent safety for me, it makes me feel better when I am at my worst. I think that what makes it so important to me is that you, and also Hank :), are behind it. That is what gives it heart to everything you guys do. Perhaps you love what you do so much that we can feel the love through it. That is why I tell you that even if you don't publish another book, even though, it would break my heart I would still go back to the ones you've written and still feel the same way I do now. Because of how much they mean to me and what they represent to me. I will be forever thankful for all of the things you have shared with me and all of the strength you have given me through the things you do. And I will be here, patiently waiting for the next thing you want to share with me, whatever it may be and however you want to do it. Love, Su.

[@annaholm8033]

honestly my favourite book by him is Looking for Alaska. Sure, TFIOS was the first book I read but then I fell in love with his writing and read all of his books lmao

[@kateh7484]

Some of my favorite authors have gone 5 or even 10 years between books so you're in good company John. Honestly I prefer quality over quantity.

[@paigeblanchard2435]

Less than a year later and John has written a new book and is publishing it. We're proud of you, John.

[@juststeveschannel]

You may not publish another book individually, but if that should be the case, I hope you'd consider working on a partnership again. This doesn't always work. but WGWG is one of my very favorite books. And, you know, if you need a partner who can help writing action scenes, I write great action scenes. Just saying...

[@cheesereader]

+

[@bonbonchocolat7777]

+

[@SomeoneBeginingWithI]

+ (WGWG means almost as much to me emotionally as tfios does)

[@RyanStorey1231]

+

[@shanachayadavison5857]

+

[@IncandescentFlame]

An excellent commentary on reality's lack of a classic plot arc. Well said, John.

[@cheesereader]

+

[@vlogbrothers]

Reality is even worse at plotting than I am. -John

[@chloecasares9037]

John green your books were a inspiration to me I always loved your work your books helped me be more confident in myself than I ever thought I would be and that is saying a lot on my terms I was rereading the fault in our stars for the millionth time and saw your KZbin channel I love all your work and have all your books please don't give up writing a books I will read literally anything you write

[@gracel3973]

he should make this story of not knowing and uncertainty into a book. I would read it

[@AnimeKitten77677]

Tbh I'd read it too. I feel like it'd go over really well since it's such a relatable topic

[@xanagreen5638]

This is three years late, but I actually liked Turtles All the Way Down more than Fault In Our Stars. Don't get me wrong- both are amazing books, and both broadened my perspective. But I'd dealt with what Aza dealt with. I'd lost friends to my anxiety because it made them feel like they were less important. I'd had that condemning feeling that there was no surviving this plague of thoughts I couldn't control. Reading the book made me feel more whole as a person. It said all of the things I'd been trying to say for the past two years, and helped me find my own definition for them. Point is, when you write something that matters to you, it's going to help people. Even if it's a fanfiction or something! Even if your scared it's not original, it's YOUR take on something. As a human, you share experiences with other people who have felt the same thing. And you have experiences people need to relate to more.

[@kate3011]

The way your face lights up from 2:39 to 2:41 says everything about your new story. That kind of enthusiasm just makes me happy :) I wish you lots of patience and energy in writing your way to the end - "calmly, joyously, recklessly"!

[@Dycehart]

Bryan Lee O'Malley knew that nothing he did would ever measure up to the success of "Scott Pilgrim vs the World" and for him, that was comforting. Nowhere near as many people would respond to "Lost at Sea" and "Seconds" in the same way they did before, and he found peace in that. You don't have to measure up to anything. You just have to be you, and create art that you enjoy making. It might not reach people in the same way TfioS did, but it'll reach someone.

[@nicoleesola8023]

John, you could write a novel on how to properly deep clean a carpet & I would still buy the hard copy.

[@bizziteeter5951]

Dear John, I love that you are writing again, and especially since its for fun and not force. I wanted to say I've love your writings since I found looking for alaska in my school library in 2008, which lead me to your other books and to vlogbrothers, and hearing you say writing became what it became the after fault in our stars made my eyes water. At first I felt pain that I may never read another book by you but I'm so grateful for vlogbrothers and everything else you and thank do and the community you both have built that we get to know you and hear these thing from your point of view. No matter what just Dont forget to be awesome.-from a proud member of nerdfighteria

[@emmettdel]

"I missed writing, but in the way you miss someone you used to love."

[@ThisIsReMarkable]

If it counts for anything, I was deeply intrigued by the 2015 P4A reading (which, if you're the publisher reading this, may or may not have happened).

[@gracegrass4462]

+

[@Samwisehatgewinnen]

You've already given us so so much, John! we love you no matter what and are incredibly grateful

[@sunflowermary2]

It's so weird to hear anyone say that he may not be able to top The Fault in Our Stars, because in my eyes, my favorite John's book is An Abundance of Katherines and he did published beautiful works after that. So my point is, don't feel that pressure because in many people's eyes you did topped your previous work. Like my best friend, he loves Looking for Alaska, it's his favorite actually, and he loved The Fault in Our Stars. I hope this makes sense, it sounded logical in my mind.

[@tristaishmael3464]

That definitely makes sense! I first discovered Alaska way before TFIOS, and while I love TFIOS, Alaska will always be my absolute favorite of his- that's one of the books that's shaped who I am as a person

[@lslalaland25]

🐢 🐢 🐢

[@tara.5986]

🐢

[@santos4613]

🐢

[@phillipbell4394]

🐢

[@trustpixidust1611]

🐢

[@juliagunter9799]

🐢

[@rashmeetkochhar8935]

John. I saw this video of yours the day you posted it but I didn't get time to comment. so from what I remember... i just feel like telling you that you are undoubtedly my favourite author and your creations have changed me completely. TFIOS obviously being my fav creation. I wanna request you to never ever stop writing.you really inspire me a lot! thanks

[@ThatOneIrishFurry]

Interesting to look back and see "2 kids find something terrible in a storm drain" would end up being part of Turtles All the Way down And to this day John would still be trying to write that thriller novel