The Message Behind "Looking For Alaska"

The "Michael L. Printz" awarded book Looking For Alaska was profoundly moving. I say that with the utmost honesty as well. I mean, how could it not be moving? (Spoilers ahead.)

The story is about a boy named Pudge who goes off to boarding school and meets the girl of his dreams, Alaska. Now, Alaska isn't the type of girl that you would see Pudge dating, she is wild, reckless, and most importantly, she doesn't value her life or anyone else's. The thing about Pudge is that he doesn't care. He sees the most beautiful girl in the world and tries all school year to win her over.

Then one night, Pudge finally gets her. Drunk and in his dorm room, they share an intimate moment. Although, just like every other John Green book on the planet, Alaska has to run off right after and get herself killed. I know, shocker right?

With the death of Alaska, Pudge finds himself wrapped up in the mystery of if it was suicide or not (it was). After searching and searching, Pudge learns one gigantic lesson, he will never know the truth of what she was thinking or doing that night. Although he does learn one thing, Alaska would have wanted him to move on. So that is what he does, he moves on.

Now I know what your asking, "how is that moving?" Well let me tell you one thing, people care. No matter your situation, there is always someone who values your life, even if you do not value your own. I know Looking for Alaska is just a book, but it spoke a true message. So I'll leave you on this, before you go hopping into your car after having too much to drink, think about those around you and how it will affect them, because there is always someone who would love to have you stick around.